Become a Certified Damp Surveyor (FODCS)
The complete online damp surveyor course: 67 lessons across 10 modules with lifetime access. Study at your own pace, learn evidence-led diagnosis from practising specialists, and certify as a Federation of Damp surveyor (FODCS).
Join 650+ professionals certified by the Federation of Damp, the body behind damp and mould training for councils and housing providers across the UK.
Request More Information
Have questions about the course before committing? Fill in your details and a member of our team will be in touch to help.
Who This Course Is For
Built for Professionals Who Need to Survey Damp with Confidence
🔨
Damp & Waterproofing Contractors
Add surveying to your services and charge separately for assessments. See the Technician course →
🏠
Property Surveyors & Inspectors
Formalise your knowledge with a recognised certification and professional report framework.
🏗️
Builders & Renovation Specialists
Identify and report damp issues accurately before and during works.
🚪
Career Changers
No prior experience required. Start a career in a high-demand, well-paid specialism. See the Beginner course →
What You Will Learn
A Complete Diagnostic & Reporting Framework
This is not a basic introduction course. It is a structured training and assessment pathway designed to equip you with the knowledge and professional framework required to carry out damp surveys confidently and to industry standards. Prefer in-person training? View the classroom programme →
✓ Rising damp and DPC failure
✓ Condensation and cold bridging
✓ Timber decay, wet rot and dry rot
✓ External defect identification
✓ Professional survey structure
✓ Penetrating damp and building defects
✓ Hygroscopic salt contamination
✓ Moisture meter interpretation
✓ Evidence-based reporting
✓ Client documentation standards
Curriculum
- 12 Sections
- 83 Lessons
- Lifetime
- Module 1: Introduction to Damp Surveying7 ItemsThis 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.
- 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 Surveying4 Questions
- Module 2: Diagnosing Different Types of Damp11 ItemsThis 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.
- 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 Diagnosis5 Questions
- Module 3: Advanced Damp Survey Techniques & Reporting14 ItemsThis 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.
- 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 Surveys5 Questions
- Module 4: Building Defects & Damp Prevention Strategies10 ItemsThis 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 risks
- 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 Strategies4 Questions
- Module 5: Damp Issues in Different Property Types & Construction Methods10 ItemsThis 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.
- 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 Methods5 Questions
- Module 6: Advanced Structural & Timber Decay Assessments8 ItemsThis 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.
- 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 Assessments5 Questions
- Module 7: Awaab’s Law: Legal Responsibilities and Risk Prevention7 ItemsThis 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.
- Module 8: Health, Safety & Compliance in Damp Surveying8 ItemsThis 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.
- 8.1Health 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 Surveying3 Questions
- Module 9: Awaab’s Law in Scotland5 Items
- Module 10: Working in Scotland7 Items
- Module 11: Conclusion & Next Steps for Damp Surveyors4 ItemsThis 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.
- Final Exam & Assessment1 Item
Instructor
Join 650+ professionals certified by the Federation of Damp, the body behind damp and mould training for councils and housing providers across the UK.
Earn Your FODCS Certificate
Complete the online training and pass the online exam, then produce up to five assessment reports in the Candidate Report Builder. One report must pass FOD review before Federation of Damp Certified Surveyor (FODCS) certification is awarded. Paid FOD membership is separate and optional; it is not required for certification.
Industry Recognised
From the body that has delivered damp and mould training for Manchester City Council, Thanet District Council and the London Borough of Hillingdon
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.
Awaab's Law Ready
Fully trained to survey, report and document damp to the standards required under current legislation
Start Your Damp Surveying Career Today
Join hundreds of property professionals who have earned their FODCS certification. Study online, at your own pace, with lifetime access to all course materials.
