Rising damp is a common problem in buildings where groundwater rises up through walls, floors, and other porous materials by capillary action. When moisture from the ground is drawn up into the building, it can cause damage to walls, floors, and other structures. The moisture may contain dissolved salts, which can also cause problems, such as salt crystallization and efflorescence.
The causes of rising damp can include the absence or failure of a damp-proof course (DPC), which is a barrier that is installed in the walls of a building to prevent moisture from rising up from the ground. Other causes can include high levels of ground moisture, poor ventilation, and other building defects.
