Issues such as disjointed downpipes, corroding metal fittings, or blocked guttering with vegetation can all be problematic.
Penetrating damp is frequently found where blocked and overflowing fittings cause damp in these areas, including near the base of walls from the splashback. This is often misdiagnosed as rising dampness, yet can be straightforward to rectify and prevent in the future.
Drainage systems can be a concealed nasty. Issues such as structural movement can be caused by defective drainage, therefore a crucial element to be reported on. Blockages, and damaged pipework in particular are defects often identified when opening the inspection chambers. Costs to rectify can be very expensive, and DIY jobs with soil vent pipes to new bathrooms are frequently identified.
An image taken by George of an inspection chamber with free-flowing water
This cover was blocked over, but was located and found to be badly damaged. Nearby trees can lead to roots entering the pipework, which can lead to extensive damage to the drainage system
Easily missed when dry, but disconnected downpipes will lead to rainwater penetrating this wall
