Case Study:
Rising Damp in a Victorian Horsham Home
When the owners of a Victorian period home in Horsham noticed signs of rising damp, they were understandably worried about both the integrity of their property and the potential disruption of any remedial work. Older houses are particularly vulnerable to damp issues, and it can be difficult for homeowners to judge what is genuinely required versus what might be unnecessary or excessive work.
The Problem: Rising Damp in a Victorian Property
The clients contacted G Jones Plastering & Damp Proofing after noticing damp issues at low level in several areas of their home, typical of rising damp in solid walls with an ageing or failed damp proof course. Having already received one quote from another contractor, they felt that the scope of work suggested was more extensive than seemed justified by the visible symptoms. This left them uncertain and concerned about overcommitting to invasive and expensive work.
Their priorities were clear:
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Resolve the rising damp effectively and long term
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Avoid unnecessary work and cost
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Keep disruption and mess to an absolute minimum, especially in a lived‑in period home
Gavin’s Assessment and Honest Advice
Gavin, a City and Guilds qualified plasterer and PCA Qualified Technician for damp proofing, arranged a prompt visit to assess the property in person. During his survey, he focused on identifying exactly where the damp was present, what was causing it, and how far it had spread, rather than proposing a blanket approach to the entire ground floor.
From this inspection, Gavin was able to recommend a targeted rising damp treatment and plastering specification that addressed the actual problems without unnecessary extras.
This approach contrasted with the previous quote the homeowners had received, and it gave them confidence that only essential work would be carried out and that the cost was fair and proportionate to the real issue.
Clear Communication and Working Around the Homeowners
Leading up to the work, the clients had several questions about the process, timings, and what to expect in terms of disruption. Gavin took the time to answer these queries fully so the homeowners knew exactly what would happen and why.
The work was booked in for while the homeowners were away on holiday, so being reliable and trustworthy was absolutely crucial. Gavin completed the damp proofing and plastering while they were away and kept them updated with photographs once the work was finished so they could see the progress and results remotely.
Quality Finish, Clean Home
On their return, the homeowners were immediately struck by the quality of the finish and how tidy the property was. The affected walls had been treated for rising damp and re‑plastered to a smooth, ready‑for‑decoration finish, blending in with the character of the Victorian home. There was no dust or debris left behind; Gavin had protected areas carefully and even mopped all the floors before leaving, so the clients walked back into a clean, usable space rather than a building site.
The result was a neat, professional damp proofing job carried out with care, honesty, and respect for both the property and the owners. They now feel confident heading into winter, expecting a drier, more comfortable home thanks to the remedial work completed.
Read the customer's review here
At G Jones Plastering & Damp Proofing, the focus is always on doing what is necessary to solve the problem properly, not upselling unnecessary work. With over 25 years of experience and specialist damp proofing qualifications, Gavin carefully assesses each property, explains the options clearly, and carries out all damp proofing and plastering himself to ensure a high standard of workmanship.
If you have concerns about damp in your home in Horsham or the surrounding areas and want honest advice and a professional, tidy job, get in touch to arrange a visit and discuss the most sensible way to protect your property.