Damp and Timber Reports for Mortgages and Retentions
When a mortgage valuation or homebuyer survey flags damp or timber defects, the lender usually wants a specialist report before releasing funds. DML provides that report without selling the repair.
A damp and timber report is a focused specialist inspection of a property for dampness (rising, penetrating and condensation) and timber defects (dry rot, wet rot and wood-boring insects). Lenders and surveyors ask for one when a valuation raises a concern, when a retention is being held, or when a buyer wants to know what they are taking on. The traditional problem is that these reports are often produced free by companies whose income depends on the treatment they then recommend.
How DML’s report is different
- Paid, independent inspection. Our fee is for the report. Remedial works, if any, are quoted separately by our team or your own contractor.
- Measured evidence. Moisture profiles, salts analysis where relevant, timber probing and photographs, not a tick-box.
- Clear conclusions. What is present, what is historic, what needs work now and what can be monitored.
- Costed scope on request. Where a lender needs an estimate for a retention, we include a repair scope that contractors can price, and our team can quote for the works if you want.
- Exchange date fixed? Tell us when you book so we can discuss timing for your purchase or remortgage.
What we inspect
- Ground and upper-floor walls for rising and penetrating damp
- Sub-floor voids, joists, wall plates and floorboards where access exists
- Roof timbers and loft spaces where accessible
- Skirtings, door frames, window boards and built-in timbers
- Ventilation, drainage and ground-level factors that cause the defects
- Evidence of previous treatments and guarantees
Using the report
The report is addressed to you and can be forwarded to your lender, conveyancer or surveyor. If your lender specifies a particular format or professional membership for the author, tell us when you book and we will confirm whether we meet it before you commit; we would rather lose a job than issue a report that is rejected. Repairs recommended in the report can be quoted by our team or any contractor you choose.
We investigate across Greater London and Surrey. See areas we cover.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the lender want a damp and timber report?
Because the valuer has seen a sign of damp or timber defect and the lender wants a specialist view on the extent and the cost before lending against the property.
What is a retention?
An amount the lender holds back from the mortgage advance until specified works are done. A clear scope and estimate in the report helps you understand and later release it.
Is this the same as a free damp survey?
No. Free surveys are typically sales visits by treatment companies. This is an independent paid inspection whose only product is the report.
How long does it take?
Inspection typically one to three hours depending on size and access, with the written report following the visit; ask about report timing when you book.
Can you quote for the repairs too?
DML does not carry out repairs. If you want a price for the works in the report, our team can quote, as can any contractor. You are free to compare.
Related services
Need a report for your lender?
Independent damp and timber reports across London and Surrey, turned around to your exchange date.
Last reviewed: 25 October 2026. Independent investigation and written reports. Repairs are quoted separately.