damp

[bubbly2000]

I have noticed a small patch of what looks like damp (it's a dark speckly mouldy looking patch) on an inside wall of my house, the wall between the kitchen and dining room. Also, what looks like bubbling of the artexing and its seems soft, I can pop it like bubble wrap. It's not a particular old house, only about 35 yrs. Who do I contact to have this confirmed and more to the point how much is it likely to cost me. Any suggestions appreciated

[The Builder]

You mention Artex, Bubbly, so I guess this is up near the ceiling ....... the most common place for condensation on a cold surface.
Ventilation, ventilation, ventilation ............... as they say :o)

[bubbly2000]

no, its at the botton just above the skirting board. Hope this helps

[bubbly2000]

oops, bottom

[The Builder]

OK ...... sorry .......... 35 year old house should have a dampcourse, so the most likely thing is still condensation.
Is the damp patch near an outside wall?

[bubbly2000]

yes its near the outside wall but actually on the inside wall dividing the kitchen and dining area, however, I don't have a problem with condensation, my house is well ventilated. It doesen't feel cold or wet around the said area so I'm totally confused

[The Builder]

Right ........ possibly a "cold bridge" from the (cold) outside wall.
Cavity wall I guess?

[bubbly2000]

yes it is a cavity wall and I have cavity wall insulation too. What would you suggest I do?

[The Builder]

Now I have to stick my neck out Bubbles.......... don't panic ...... firstly, it's quite rare for a dampcourse to fail in such a recent house. I would get outside and cut out a brick or two from the outside "skin" of the wall, then poke about in the cavity for debris, dirty wall tie, or maybe a missing piece of insulation.
A simple job, and it might tell you something. Sorry I can't be definitive, but it's difficult without seeing it.

[bubbly2000]

Thankyou very much for your help, although I doubt I'll do that myself. Is that what a professional would do if i called someone in, also what would be a reasonable price to expect to pay for having this confirmed?

[The Builder]

See if you can find a local general builder (not just a bricklayer). He might see something else that might be the problem if the cavity looks ok.
As for cost....... hourly rates vary a lot. Ask for his rate, then the time will of course depend on what he finds. I've given people rough ideas on cost before.......... and regretted it. I'm sure you understand.
Let us know how you get on.

[bubbly2000]

Yes, I understand and thankyou, I will keep you posted