Damp Surveyor Classroom Certification (FODCS)
The hands-on, City & Guilds Assured route to FODCS certification: two days of expert-led classroom teaching, a full day surveying a real property, plus 20 hours of online learning. Choose an available venue and date in the session selector.
Independently assured by City & Guilds. Small cohorts, real field experience, and direct access to practising surveyors throughout.
The UK's leading in-person damp surveyor certification
A hands-on, classroom-based course for professionals who want to formalise their skills and carry out damp surveys to industry standards. Over three immersive days you build the knowledge, practical skill and confidence to survey with authority, backed by a City & Guilds Assured certification.
Three days built around real practice
3-day course
Two days of expert-led classroom learning, followed by a full day of practical application.
Hands-on field survey
Visit a real property, conduct a professional survey and complete a full report.
20 hours online learning
Flexible, self-paced content to deepen your knowledge and prepare for the exam.
The skills you'll walk away with
The full programme runs to 11 sections and 68 lessons, set out in detail further down the page. Here is what that training lets you do.
Diagnose every type of damp
Rising, penetrating and condensation damp, plumbing leaks, salt contamination, false readings and cold bridging, using the right diagnostic tools to confirm the real cause.
Survey and report like a professional
Full step-by-step surveys, advanced diagnostic equipment, thermal imaging interpretation, reading moisture severity, and writing clear, evidence-led reports clients trust.
Understand defects, prevention and property types
How building defects and construction methods drive damp, from period homes to new builds, flats and basements, plus remedial treatment and long-term prevention.
Assess timber and structural decay
Wet rot, dry rot, woodworm and insect damage, the impact on load-bearing structures, specialist timber treatment, and the relevant British Standards.
Apply Awaab's Law with confidence
Legal duties and timeframes, the implications for surveyors, the health impact of damp and mould, and how to communicate properly with tenants and landlords.
Work safely and to standard
Safe handling of hazardous materials, PPE, building regulations, insurance and liability, party wall agreements, and professional ethics.
What you walk away with
- Sit your exam online, at your convenience
- City & Guilds Assured certification
- Federation of Damp Certified Surveyor (FODCS) certification
- 15 CPD hours
- Apply separately for paid membership and a directory listing, subject to approval
- Course learning materials; membership tools require separately approved membership
Book now
Spaces are limited and fill quickly. Secure your place on the next available date.
Curriculum
- 12 Sections
- 83 Lessons
- 10 Weeks
- Module 1: Introduction to Damp SurveyingThis module provides a comprehensive introduction to damp surveying, covering the role and responsibilities of a damp surveyor, building pathology, and the common causes of damp in buildings. Learners will explore different types of damp, their underlying causes, and the tools used for damp detection. By the end of this module, students will be able to identify, assess, and report on moisture-related issues in buildings using industry-standard techniques.7
- 1.1Welcome to the Federation of Damp Certified Surveyor Course
- 1.2Role & Responsibilities of a Damp Surveyor
- 1.3Understanding Building Pathology in Damp Surveying
- 1.4Common Causes of Damp in Buildings
- 1.5Introduction to Damp Surveying Tools & Equipment
- 1.6Conducting a Professional Damp Survey
- 1.7Introduction to Damp Surveying10 Minutes3 Questions
- Module 2: Diagnosing Different Types of DampThis module focuses on accurately diagnosing various types of damp, including rising damp, penetrating damp, condensation, and plumbing leaks. Students will learn how to differentiate between damp issues, use diagnostic tools, and conduct detailed damp surveys. By the end of this module, learners will have the skills to identify damp sources, interpret moisture readings, and recommend effective treatment solutions.11
- 2.1Understanding Rising Damp – Causes, Signs & Diagnosis
- 2.2Identifying Penetrating Damp – How Water Enters Buildings
- 2.3Condensation & Mould Growth – Causes & Prevention
- 2.4Dew Point and Relative Humidity
- 2.5Recognising Plumbing Leaks & Internal Moisture Problems
- 2.6Identifying Salt Contamination & False Damp Readings
- 2.7Ventilation & Moisture Balance
- 2.8Cold Bridging – Understanding Its Role in Damp & Mould
- 2.9Linking External Defects to Internal Damp Problems
- 2.10Differentiating Between Multiple Damp Issues in a Property
- 2.11Advanced Damp Diagnosis10 Minutes5 Questions
- Module 3: Advanced Damp Survey Techniques & ReportingThis module focuses on advanced diagnostic techniques, professional damp survey reporting, and client communication. Learners will develop in-depth skills in using advanced tools, interpreting survey data, and writing clear, professional reports. By the end of this module, students will be able to conduct full property surveys, document findings effectively, and provide actionable recommendations for damp treatment and prevention.14
- 3.1Pre-Survey Questionnaires & Occupant Behaviour Analysis
- 3.2Conducting a Full Damp Survey: Step-by-Step Guide
- 3.3When Readings Conflict
- 3.4Thermal Imaging – Real Interpretation Cases
- 3.5How to Interpret Moisture Readings & Identify Damp Severity
- 3.6Writing Professional Damp Survey Reports
- 3.7Communicating Survey Findings to Clients & Providing Recommendations
- 3.8Legal Compliance, Industry Standards & Ethical Considerations
- 3.9Records & Workflow
- 3.10Monitoring Over Time
- 3.11Evidence Capture & Photography
- 3.12When Your Findings Are Challenged
- 3.13Surveying Occupied & Difficult Properties
- 3.14Conducting and Reporting Damp Surveys10 Minutes5 Questions
- Module 4: Building Defects & Damp Prevention StrategiesThis module focuses on how building defects contribute to damp issues and the best strategies to prevent damp in residential and commercial properties. Learners will explore common structural faults, poor construction practices, and environmental factors that increase moisture risks10
- 4.1Understanding How Building Defects Cause Damp
- 4.2Poor Construction Practices & How They Contribute to Moisture Problems
- 4.3External Environmental Factors Affecting Damp (Weather, Drainage & Ground Levels)
- 4.4Ventilation Systems
- 4.5Why Ventilation Fails
- 4.6Proactive Property Maintenance for Long-Term Damp Prevention
- 4.7Best Practices for New Builds & Renovations to Minimise Damp Risks
- 4.8Retrofit and Damp Risk
- 4.9Mould Remediation
- 4.10Building Defects & Damp Prevention Strategies10 Minutes4 Questions
- Module 5: Damp Issues in Different Property Types & Construction MethodsThis module focuses on how damp behaves in various types of buildings, from historic properties to modern new builds, commercial spaces, and apartments. Learners will gain expertise in diagnosing damp based on construction methods and materials, ensuring they can provide accurate advice tailored to different property types.10
- 5.1Understanding Damp in Period & Historic Buildings
- 5.2Damp Challenges in Modern Homes & New Builds
- 5.3Damp in Commercial & Industrial Properties – Key Differences
- 5.4Common Damp Problems in Flats & Apartments
- 5.5How Construction Materials Impact Damp Risks
- 5.6Damp in Timber-Frame & Non-Traditional Construction
- 5.7Basements, Cellars & Below-Ground Damp
- 5.8Remedial Damp Treatments for Different Property Types
- 5.9Specifying Remedial Works
- 5.10Damp Issues in Different Property Types & Construction Methods10 Minutes5 Questions
- Module 6: Advanced Structural & Timber Decay AssessmentsThis module is designed to provide a detailed understanding of how damp affects structural integrity, timber decay, and insect infestations. It will cover how to diagnose, assess, and treat timber damage caused by wet rot, dry rot, and wood-boring insects such as woodworm and beetles.8
- 6.1Understanding the Structural Risks of Damp & Moisture Damage
- 6.2Wet Rot vs. Dry Rot – Identification, Causes & Treatment
- 6.3Woodworm & Insect Infestations in Damp Timber (Beetles, Moths & Pests)
- 6.4Assessing the Impact of Damp on Load-Bearing Structures & Foundations
- 6.5Specialist Timber Treatment Methods & Preservation Strategies
- 6.6Case Studies – Real-World Examples of Damp-Induced Timber & Structural Failures
- 6.7British Standards & Compliance Guidance
- 6.8Advanced Structural & Timber Decay Assessments10 Minutes5 Questions
- Module 7: Awaab’s Law: Legal Responsibilities and Risk PreventionThis module provides a clear and practical overview of Awaab’s Law — new legislation introduced to hold landlords and housing providers accountable for damp and mould issues in homes. You’ll learn what the law requires, key timeframes for responding to reports, and how it impacts surveyors, tenants, and property owners. We’ll cover the legal responsibilities, enforcement powers, and the importance of accurate and timely damp surveys. By the end of this module, you'll understand how to align your reporting and communication with the expectations set by this law and help ensure tenants live in safe, healthy homes.7
- Module 8: Health, Safety & Compliance in Damp SurveyingThis module focuses on the health risks, safety protocols, and legal responsibilities that damp surveyors need to follow. Working in damp environments can expose professionals to hazardous materials, structural risks, and legal liabilities, so understanding safe working practices and compliance standards is essential.8
- 8.1Health Risks for Damp Surveyors – Your Own Exposure
- 8.2Safe Handling of Hazardous Materials (Asbestos, Mould, Lead-Based Paint, etc.)
- 8.3Legal Compliance & Building Regulations for Damp Surveyors
- 8.4Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) & Safe Surveying Practices
- 8.5Understanding Insurance & Liability for Damp Surveyors
- 8.6Party Wall Agreements for Damp Surveyors
- 8.7Professional Standards & Ethical Responsibilities in Damp Surveys
- 8.8Health, Safety & Compliance in Damp Surveying10 Minutes3 Questions
- Module 9: Awaab’s Law in Scotland5
- Module 10: Working in Scotland7
- Module 11: Conclusion & Next Steps for Damp SurveyorsThis final module serves as a comprehensive wrap-up of the course, reinforcing key lessons and preparing learners for real-world application of their damp surveying knowledge. It focuses on best practices, professional standards, career development, and ongoing learning opportunities.4
- Final Exam & Assessment1
Instructor
Independently assured by City & Guilds. Small cohorts, real field experience, and direct access to practising surveyors throughout.
What Our Graduates Say
A City & Guilds Assured FODCS Certification
Complete the classroom training and field survey, pass the online exam, then produce up to five assessment reports in the Candidate Report Builder. Three reports must pass FOD review before FODCS certification is awarded. The training programme is City & Guilds Assured. Paid FOD membership is separate and optional; it is not required for certification.
City & Guilds Assured
The training programme has been independently reviewed and assured by City & Guilds, the UK's leading skills certification organisation
Practical Assessment
Complete the training and online exam, then submit up to five reports in the Candidate Report Builder. Three must pass FOD review.
Use on Reports & Marketing
Display your FODCS credentials on survey reports, your
website and all client communications
FOD Membership Eligible
Apply separately for paid FOD membership. Directory listing and badge use require successful vetting and approval.
Request More Information
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Secure Your Place on the Next Cohort
Choose an available session, train on a City & Guilds Assured programme and get hands-on experience with a real survey. Complete the required training and assessment to earn your FODCS certificate.
