Possible signs of rising damp include low-level damp patches, tide marks, salt deposits, flaking paint, damaged plaster and deteriorating skirting boards. The moisture pattern normally begins at ground level and may extend upwards along the wall.

These symptoms do not confirm rising damp on their own. Leaks, condensation, penetrating damp and damp bridging can create similar damage, so the property should be inspected before treatment is recommended.

Rising damp is caused by moisture from the ground moving upwards through porous building materials. This is known as capillary action.

It may occur where a damp-proof course is missing, damaged, ineffective or has been bypassed. Raised external ground levels, internal plaster bridging the damp-proof course and unsuitable materials can also contribute to low-level moisture problems.

Rising damp normally affects walls that are in direct contact with the ground, so it is usually found on the ground floor. Damp patches appearing on upper floors are more likely to have another cause, such as a leak, defective roof, damaged guttering or penetrating damp.

Basements and cellars can also experience ground-related moisture, but this may be water entering sideways through below-ground walls rather than rising damp.

Rising damp begins at ground level as moisture moves upwards through a wall. Common signs include low-level tide marks, salt deposits, damaged plaster and deteriorating skirting boards.

Condensation occurs when moisture in the air settles on a cold surface. It is commonly found around windows, external walls, bathrooms and other areas with limited ventilation. It may cause water droplets, black mould and surface staining.

Because the symptoms can overlap, an inspection is the safest way to establish the cause.

Yes, rising damp can be treated once the cause has been properly confirmed. The correct work depends on the property, its construction and the evidence found during the inspection.

Treatment may involve correcting damp bridging or external ground levels, repairing or installing a damp-proof system where justified, removing damaged or salt-contaminated plaster and reinstating suitable finishes after the wall has dried.

Not all plaster affected by damp needs to be removed. However, plaster that is damaged, loose or heavily contaminated with salts may need to be taken back to a suitable level before the wall is allowed to dry and new finishes are applied.

Damp Doctor Sussex assesses the condition of the plaster and recommends removal only where it forms a necessary part of the remedial work.

Photographs can help us understand the visible symptoms, but they are not enough to confirm rising damp. A low-level damp patch could also be caused by damp bridging, condensation, a plumbing leak or water entering from outside.

An inspection allows us to assess the moisture pattern, wall construction, ground levels, damp-proof course and possible alternative causes before recommending any work.