Damp Survey on Newbuild in Luton

The Problem

The lower ground floor of this relatively new-built block of flats was undergoing refurbishment after flooding from a burst water tank, when some decay to the structural timber frame was noted. Further opening-up of the timber frame at and above skirting level revealed what appeared to be extensive wet rot decay to the sole plates and studs throughout the three flats on the lower ground floor level. Breaking-up of the slab and screed around the embedded internal and external wall timber sole plates uncovered severe localised decay. On inspection there was what appeared to be significant dampness left over from the flood, as well as visible liquid water from continuing plumbing leaks. Although drying methods had been implemented via the use of injection drying equipment; mould growth was evident in many places particularly on the wall surfaces. H+R were instructed in conjunction with loss adjusters to assess the extent, and likely source, of the decay to the timber framing, and to advise on cost-effective remedial works to allow the flats to return to domestic occupancy and to maintain the capital value of the building.