01

Visible signs you can look for

Damp does not always have the same cause. Condensation, water ingress and leaks can create similar symptoms, so a visual check cannot replace a professional diagnosis.

Even so, simple changes can show that further investigation is worthwhile.

  • New marks or darker areas on walls and ceilings.
  • Peeling paint, damaged plaster or warped wood.
  • A stronger musty smell than usual.
  • Persistent condensation on windows.
  • Damp marks on fabric, paper or furniture.
02

Areas that deserve attention

An empty home benefits from the same points being observed consistently. This makes comparisons between visits easier and helps distinguish an old mark from a recent change.

Visible signs are more likely around windows, external walls, roofs, kitchens, bathrooms and water connections.

03

What to do when something changes

Photograph the area before cleaning or changing it, record the date and compare it with earlier images. Active water, a strong smell, loose materials or rapid deterioration should be reported to the owner and assessed by the appropriate professional.

Ventilation can help in some circumstances, but it is not a universal solution. Any procedure should consider the weather, the security of the home and the owner’s prior instructions.

04

Why a consistent record matters

Photographs taken from similar angles create a useful history. For a home looked after by Laro, observations and images from each visit remain connected to that visit’s date.

The aim is not to certify the technical condition of the property. It is to identify visible changes and communicate them clearly so the owner can decide what happens next.