Background:
A family of five, living in a three-bedroom semi-detached home in Dublin, reached out to Dampdoctor after experiencing a persistent damp smell and recurring health issues, including respiratory discomfort. Concerned about the potential impact on their property and well-being, they sought our expertise to professionally and effectively resolve the issue.
Inspection and Methodology:
A suitable inspection date was scheduled with the client. Our qualified building surveyor, with over 20 years of experience in damp and mould diagnostics, conducted a thorough inspection using our proven methodology:
- Visual Inspection: Identified visible mould growth on walls in the kitchen and bathroom.
- Moisture Mapping: Used advanced tools to measure damp levels in walls, floors, and ceilings.
- Air Quality Testing: Confirmed the presence of mould spores, highlighting a potential health risk.
- Thermal Imaging: Pinpointed cold spots in the property, contributing to condensation and damp issues.
Findings and Recommendations:
The inspection revealed several issues:
- A plumbing leak in the kitchen was a key source of dampness.
- Poor ventilation in the bathroom led to excessive humidity and mould growth.
- Cold spots in certain areas of the home exacerbated condensation risks. Each specific area was outlined on the report.
Based on these findings, we provided the client with a tailored action plan:
- Engage a qualified plumber to address the kitchen plumbing issue.
- Install a mechanical ventilation system to improve airflow and control humidity.
- Carry out professional mould remediation and ozone treatment to eliminate the mould spores, and the damp smell.
- Address cold spots identified through thermal imaging to prevent further condensation.
Support with Insurance Claim:
Recognizing the financial impact of these repairs, we connected the client with a reputable insurance assessor who consistently receives five-star reviews from our clients. The assessor expertly managed the insurance claim on the family’s behalf, ensuring coverage for all works associated with the leak, including remediation and repairs.
Works Completed:
Once the insurance claim was approved, the following solutions were implemented by the client:
- A trusted plumber repaired the kitchen plumbing issue, eliminating the source of the damp.
- A state-of-the-art mechanical ventilation system was installed, significantly improving airflow and reducing humidity.
- Specialist mould remediation was carried out, followed by ozone treatment, to remove mould and eliminate odours.
- Cold spots were addressed to minimise condensation risks and ensure a long-term solution.
Outcome:
The results exceeded the client’s expectations. The family reported a significant improvement in air quality, a complete elimination of the damp smell, and better overall health. They were particularly impressed with the professionalism and expertise of our surveyor and team. Additionally, they expressed relief and gratitude for the seamless support provided during the insurance process, which covered all associated costs.
Take Control of Your Home Today
At Dampdoctor, we not only provide expert damp and mould solutions but also ensure our clients feel supported every step of the way. Whether it’s addressing the root cause, providing professional remediation, or connecting you with trusted insurance assessors, we are here to help. Contact us today to protect your home, your health, and your peace of mind.
