About Us

Property Preservation Solutions Ltd provides specialist damp and timber surveys, investigations and remedial services across Teesside and the surrounding North East.

Our approach is founded on building pathology: understanding how buildings are constructed, how moisture behaves within them and why defects develop. This knowledge is particularly important when assessing period properties, where traditional masonry, mortars and timber floors require careful consideration.

We investigate the causes of deterioration and recommend proportionate solutions suited to the property’s age, construction and condition. We support homeowners, prospective purchasers, landlords and commercial property owners with clear advice and practical repair proposals.

Our experience encompasses pre-purchase damp and timber surveys, moisture investigations, assessments of timber decay and wood-boring insect damage, and associated remedial work.

We assess buildings ranging from traditional stone cottages and Victorian terraces to modern properties. Each investigation considers the relationship between the building’s fabric, previous alterations, maintenance, ventilation and surrounding conditions.

This understanding informs both our diagnosis and the specification of appropriate repairs.

Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective, lasting repairs.

Our survey-led approach examines how moisture enters, moves through and affects a building. We consider external defects, rainwater disposal, drainage, ground levels, ventilation and internal conditions before recommending treatment.

Visible dampness or an elevated moisture-meter reading does not, in isolation, establish rising damp. Findings must be interpreted in context, with consideration given to the materials being tested, salt contamination and other potential moisture sources. Where the evidence is inconclusive, we identify the further investigation required.

We do not prescribe chemical injections or damp-proofing renders as a standard response to every moisture problem. Our recommendations follow the diagnosis and may involve correcting building defects, improving moisture management or specifying a suitable remedial system where justified.

By combining technical investigation with an understanding of construction and practical repair, we develop tailored solutions intended to deliver durable results.

Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective, lasting repairs.PPS is led by Oliver McPhail, Director and Certificated Surveyor of Dampness in Buildings (CSDB).

Our investigations combine careful visual inspection with appropriate diagnostic methods. These may include moisture profiling, temperature and relative humidity measurements, thermal imaging, salt screening and borescope inspection. Drone inspections can assist with assessing otherwise difficult-to-view external areas where conditions permit.

Equipment supports our assessment; results are interpreted alongside the building’s construction, condition and the wider evidence.

Our reports explain the findings, conclusions, inspection limitations and recommended next steps. Where concealed conditions require opening up or specialist input, this is clearly identified.

PPS provides continuity from the initial investigation and written report through to the delivery of agreed remedial work.

Depending on the findings, our services may include:

• Repairs to address building defects and moisture sources.
   
• Damp-proofing and membrane systems where appropriate.
   
• Associated plastering and joinery.
   
• Timber treatment and repairs.
   
• Suspended timber floor repairs and replacement.
   
• Ground-floor replacement.
   
• Ventilation improvements.
   

Proposed works are supported by a defined scope, specification and price. We explain relevant assumptions, exclusions and any need for further investigation or statutory approvals before work proceeds.

Materials and methods are selected to suit the building and the intended repair, with attention to compatibility, manufacturer requirements and applicable technical guidance.

We serve Teesside and surrounding areas of the North East, including Stockton-on-Tees, Middlesbrough, Yarm, Billingham, Hartlepool, Darlington and parts of County Durham and North Yorkshire.

Please contact us to discuss your requirements and confirm availability in your area.

Oliver leads Property Preservation Solutions Ltd, combining an understanding of building pathology with practical experience in damp and timber investigations and remedial repairs.

His approach centres on establishing the cause of a problem, explaining the evidence and recommending work appropriate to the property. Particular consideration is given to traditional buildings and the effects of previous repairs or alterations on their moisture performance.

From the initial inspection through to agreed remedial work, Oliver provides a personal point of contact and clear, considered advice.

Whether you require a pre-purchase damp and timber survey, an investigation into persistent moisture problems or advice on remedial repairs, contact Property Preservation Solutions Ltd to discuss your property.