Loft internal wall damp

Please can someone help, we have a dormer and the internal wall shared with the neighbour (semi detached) where the chimney used to be appears to have a damp patch half way up the wall and no leak or water/damp anywhere else. The paint is no also starting to bubble on the wall so want to understand how to resolve before it gets worse

Asked by Riz on 19th Dec 2023
Expert Trade Answers
"External cladding wants looking at or roof may have small leak and that’s were water resting"
Answered on 20th Dec 2023 - Member since Oct 2023 - report
"Hi Riz,

We can take a look or required. An on site assessment will give us a truer idea of what is happening.

Regards"
Answered on 19th Dec 2023 - Member since Feb 2023 - report
"Hi riz, from what you have described it could possibly be a condensation buildup within the chimney stack iff it hasn’t been properly ventilated. Hope this helps I would be happy to take a look to give a more thorough site inspection."
Answered on 19th Dec 2023 - Member since Nov 2023 - report
"Have you checked the felt at bottom of roof might just need some eves flashing if the felt is old and can tare at this location"
Answered on 26th Dec 2023 - Member since Mar 2023 - report
"It sounds like you're facing a rather tricky situation with a damp patch in your dormer, particularly on the internal wall shared with your neighbour in your semi-detached property. Damp issues can be a bit of a headache, but let's break down the potential causes and solutions, shall we?

Chimney Removal Impact: Since the damp patch is located where the chimney used to be, it's possible that its removal could have affected the structural integrity or waterproofing of the wall. Chimneys often have complex waterproofing systems, and if these were disturbed or not properly sealed after removal, water could find its way in.

Condensation Build-Up: In dormers, especially in the UK with its notoriously fickle weather, condensation can be a common issue. This could be exacerbated by inadequate ventilation or insulation in the area where the chimney was.
Neighbour's Property: Since it's a shared wall, there's a possibility that something on your neighbour's side could be contributing to the problem. It could be worth having a friendly chat with them to see if they've noticed anything unusual on their side.

Professional Assessment: Before it turns into a bigger problem, it's advisable to get a professional to assess the situation. A damp specialist or a building surveyor can give you a more accurate diagnosis. They can check for any structural issues, external water ingress, or internal condensation problems.
Immediate Actions: While waiting for professional help, you might want to ensure good ventilation in the area. If you have a dehumidifier, it could help in reducing the moisture levels temporarily.

Repair and Prevention: Once you've identified the cause, the solution might involve structural repairs, improving ventilation, or applying waterproofing treatments. Ensure that any repairs are carried out by qualified professionals to avoid recurrence.

Insurance Consideration: Check if your home insurance policy covers this sort of damage. It could save you some expenses, especially if structural repairs are needed.

In the meantime, keep a stiff upper lip! Damp issues can be dampening, but with the right approach, they're usually solvable. And remember, it's always better to address these things sooner rather than later to prevent your wall from turning into a modern art installation of bubbled paint!"
Answered on 27th Dec 2023 - Member since Dec 2023 - report
"sounds like the flashing has come loose or not done right in the 1st place"
Answered on 22nd Dec 2023 - Member since Feb 2021 - report
"Chimney should be removed. Bcz the neighbour,s party wall chimney is causing leak."
Answered on 23rd Dec 2023 - Member since Nov 2023 - report
"Hi there it sounds like the job hasn’t been done right and there’s obviously water getting in we’re your chimney used to be it will have to be opened back up in that area and re felted tiled and ridged properly and and wet insulation took out and replaced if needed"
Answered on 2nd Jan 2024 - Member since Oct 2021 - report
"Hi, with out looking it vey hard to say, i would say in my experience, it sounds like a bridge in the cavity or the external wall"
Answered on 25th Dec 2023 - Member since Aug 2023 - report
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