Extensions & Conversions · Updated 2026
Damp proofing cost
Typical range£60–£12,000· Average rising damp treatment (mid-terrace)
Rising damp, penetrating damp and condensation treatment costs 2025. In the UK, expect to pay between £60 and £12,000, with the typical project around £2,500 (average rising damp treatment (mid-terrace)). Regional variation, specification tier and site access conditions all shift the final quote.
Quick answer: Damp proofing cost in the UK typically costs between £60 and £12,000 (Average rising damp treatment (mid-terrace)). London and the South East run 20–35% above this range; the North, Wales and most of Scotland sit 5–15% below.
Homeowners researching this typically also price up cavity wall insulation cost and plastering cost. For wider context, browse our bathroom pricing, kitchen pricing and boiler & heating costs.
Cost table
Indicative price ranges (UK, GBP)
| Item | Typical range (GBP) |
|---|---|
Damp survey — Professional investigation of damp cause | £150–£400 |
Chemical DPC injection (per m) — Rising damp treatment per metre run | £60–£120 |
Rising damp treatment (small house) — Ground floor, front and rear | £800–£2,000 |
Rising damp treatment (full) — Full perimeter, re-plastering included | £2,000–£5,000 |
Basement waterproofing — Cavity drain membrane, sump pump | £3,000–£12,000 |
Labour costs
Labour typically accounts for 55% of the total project cost in the UK.
Labour line items
| Item | Typical range (GBP) |
|---|---|
Damp specialist (per day) | £250–£380/day |
Plasterer (re-plaster after) | £600–£2,000 |
Tanking / waterproofing | £30–£60/m² |
Materials costs
Materials and fittings make up the remainder of the budget, with specification tier driving most of the variation.
Materials & fittings
| Item | Typical range (GBP) |
|---|---|
Chemical DPC solution | £8–£20/mrun |
Renovation plaster | £8–£15/m² |
Cavity drain membrane | £10–£20/m² |
Sump pump unit | £200–£600 |
Factors affecting cost in the UK
- ·Region — London and the South East run 15–30% above national averages.
- ·Specification tier — premium materials and finishes can double the base cost.
- ·Access and site conditions — flats, restricted parking and listed buildings add time.
- ·Scope changes mid-project — late design decisions are the biggest cost overrun driver.
- ·Trade availability — quotes rise 10–20% in peak spring and summer months.
Ways to reduce cost
- ·Get an independent CSRT damp survey before paying any specialist contractor.
- ·Fix external causes (gutters, ground levels, pointing) before injecting a chemical DPC.
- ·Use a PCA-registered contractor for any guaranteed work.
- ·Phase damp-proofing with a planned plastering and decorating refit.
- ·Avoid 'free damp surveys' from contractors who then quote for their own remedial works.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the different types of damp?
- Rising damp travels up from the ground through walls when the DPC (damp proof course) fails or is absent. Penetrating damp enters laterally through walls, roofs, or window frames. Condensation is caused by warm moist air meeting cold surfaces. Each requires different treatment.
- Do I need a specialist damp company?
- For diagnosis, always get an independent chartered surveyor (RICS) opinion before accepting a damp company's report — they have an incentive to find problems. For treatment, use a PCA (Property Care Association) registered contractor.
- Is damp proofing covered by guarantee?
- Reputable damp proofing companies offer 20–30 year guarantees on chemical DPC injection work. Ensure the guarantee is with a recognised insurer and is transferable if you sell the property.