Cost of damp proofing in the UK
Damp proofing in the UK typically costs £60–£90 per metre for chemical DPC injection, £80–£130 per m² for cementitious tanking, and £40–£70 per m² for cavity membrane systems. A full damp survey costs £150–£300. Treating a single wall in a terraced house might be £400–£800; a full basement tanking can exceed £10,000.
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Cost table
| Item | Typical range (GBP) |
|---|---|
Damp survey & report | £150–£300 |
Chemical DPC injection (per m) | £60–£90/m |
Replaster after DPC (per m²) | £25–£45/m² |
Cementitious tanking (per m²) | £80–£130/m² |
Cavity membrane (per m²) | £40–£70/m² |
Sump pump & drainage (basement) | £1,500–£3,500 |
Small job (1 wall, terraced) | £400–£800 |
Medium job (3–4 walls, semi) | £1,500–£3,500 |
Large basement tanking | £6,000–£15,000 |
Labour costs
Damp proofing specialists charge £180–£280/day. Injection is relatively quick; tanking and membrane systems take several days.
| Item | Typical range (GBP) |
|---|---|
Damp specialist (per day) | £180–£280 |
Plasterer (re-plaster after DPC) | £250–£500 |
Groundworker (sump pump install) | £400–£900 |
Electrician (pump electrics) | £250–£500 |
Materials costs
Materials include damp-proofing chemicals, cementitious slurry, cavity membranes, drainage channels, sump pumps and specialist plaster.
| Item | Typical range (GBP) |
|---|---|
DPC injection fluid (per 5L) | £40–£80 |
Tanking slurry (per 25 kg) | £30–£60 |
Cavity membrane (per m²) | £15–£30/m² |
Sump pump unit | £300–£800 |
Renovating plaster (per bag) | £15–£30 |
Factors affecting cost in the UK
- ·Damp type — rising damp, penetrating damp and condensation need different treatments.
- ·Wall construction — solid walls are harder to treat than cavity walls.
- ·Extent of damage — salt-contaminated plaster needs full removal and replacement.
- ·Basement depth — deeper basements need more robust tanking and pumping.
- ·Guarantee length — 10-year guarantees are standard; 20–30 year guarantees cost more.
Ways to reduce cost
- ·Always get an independent survey before accepting a specialist's diagnosis.
- ·Fix external causes first — broken gutters and high ground levels are free or cheap to correct.
- ·Get three quotes with identical treatment specifications.
- ·Check if your home insurance covers damp from insured events like leaks.
- ·Improve ventilation — condensation damp is often treatable without chemicals.
Frequently asked questions
- How do I know if I have rising damp or condensation?
- Rising damp affects walls up to 1 metre, with tide marks and salt staining. Condensation forms on cold surfaces, especially in winter, and is patchy. A surveyor can diagnose with a moisture meter.
- Does damp proofing come with a guarantee?
- Reputable firms offer 10–20 year guarantees. Ensure the company is PCA (Property Care Association) registered.
- Can I damp proof myself?
- DIY DPC injection kits exist (£80–£150), but incorrect diagnosis wastes money. Professional survey and treatment is recommended for peace of mind.
- How long does damp proofing take?
- DPC injection: 1–2 days per wall. Tanking: 3–7 days. Full basement system: 1–2 weeks plus drying time.
- Will damp proofing add value to my home?
- Yes — a damp-free home with a transferable guarantee is far more attractive to buyers and prevents price reductions at survey.