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Peter Cox London - Property Preservation Experts

Peter Cox has been a trusted name in property preservation since 1951, providing homeowners and businesses across all 32 London boroughs with effective solutions for a wide range of property problems. Our experienced surveyors and technicians are experts in diagnosing and treating dampness, condensation, timber decay and structural faults, ensuring the long-term health and value of your property.

We understand the unique challenges that London properties face, from the damp basements of Victorian terraces to the woodworm-infested timbers of historic buildings.

Our Property Preservation Services in London

Peter Cox offers a comprehensive suite of property preservation services tailored to the specific needs of London homes and businesses. With extensive experience across the capital, Peter Cox is equipped to handle a wide range of property preservation needs, from rising damp and condensation control to complex structural and basement waterproofing solutions. Whether you're in the heart of the city or in the surrounding areas, Peter Cox provides specialist surveys and treatments, ensuring that properties throughout London receive the highest standard of care. The company's local surveyors have in-depth knowledge of specific London areas, allowing for targeted and effective property preservation strategies.

Rising Damp Control in London

Rising damp is a common problem in London, particularly prevalent in its older building stock where original damp proof courses may have deteriorated or be entirely absent. Rising damp occurs when moisture from the ground is drawn upwards through the porous materials of a building's walls, a process known as capillary action. The city's diverse geology, including expansive clay soils, and historic construction methods can exacerbate this issue, leading to a number of signs including tidemarks, peeling wallpaper and damaged plaster.

Peter Cox provides specialist surveys to accurately diagnose rising damp and offer effective treatment solutions tailored to London properties.

Typical Causes of Rising Damp in London

Rising damp in London can be attributed to several factors:

  • Ageing or failed damp proof courses in period properties
  • Bridged damp proof courses due to raised ground levels or external rendering
  • The porous nature of some brick and masonry types common in London construction

Our Rising Damp Solutions

Peter Cox employs proven techniques to effectively treat rising damp, providing long-lasting solutions:

  • Chemical injection damp proofing to create a barrier against rising moisture
  • Salt retardant plastering to prevent hygroscopic salts from damaging interior finishes
  • Replastering services to restore walls ready for redecoration

London Basement Waterproofing Experts

Many London properties feature basements or cellars, which present valuable opportunities for additional living or storage space, and basement conversions are an increasingly popular way to add value to London homes.

However, these below-ground areas are particularly vulnerable to water ingress and dampness due to London's varied soil conditions and high water table, requiring specialist waterproofing solutions to ensure their usability and protect the structural integrity of the property.

Peter Cox offers comprehensive basement waterproofing services tailored to the specific challenges of London properties, utilising systems designed to meet BS 8102 standards, and providing solutions from initial survey and design to complete installation and any necessary aftercare.

Common Basement Waterproofing Challenges in London

London basements often face specific waterproofing issues:

  • High water tables, especially in properties near the River Thames
  • Lateral damp penetration through walls
  • Flooding risks in certain low-lying areas

Our Basement Waterproofing Solutions

Peter Cox offers a range of basement waterproofing solutions tailored to London properties, designed to create dry and usable spaces:

  • Cementitious tanking systems for barrier protection
  • Cavity drain membrane systems (CDM) for water management
  • Combined waterproofing systems for high-risk situations, ensuring maximum protection
  • Sump and pump installations to manage water ingress, especially crucial in flood-prone areas

Our basement waterproofing systems comply with BS 8102 standards and come with a 10-year guarantee.

Woodworm Treatment Services London

Many London properties are affected by woodworm infestations every year, as wood boring beetles use timber as a food source. Woodworm larvae can tunnel through wood and cause damage to cosmetic timber, such as skirting boards, but also significant structural damage to floor boards, joists and staircases.

If you think you have a woodworm problem in your home in London, the first step is to get a professional to confirm an active woodworm infestation.

Peter Cox will carry out a thorough survey to identify and confirm a woodworm infestation, with the findings detailed in a report with recommendations for work, if necessary.

Common Woodworm Types in London

Several woodworm species can be found in London:

  • Common Furniture Beetle (Anobium punctatum)
  • Death Watch Beetle (Xestobium rufovillosum)
  • Woodboring Weevil (Euophryum confine)

Our Woodworm Treatment Solutions

Peter Cox provides effective woodworm treatment to eliminate infestations and protect your timber, preserving the structural integrity of your property:

  • Thorough surveys to accurately identify the woodworm species and assess the extent of the infestation
  • Insecticidal treatment of affected timber, targeting both eggs, larvae and adults.
  • Timber repair and replacement where necessary, restoring structural strength

We offer a 20-year guarantee on our woodworm treatments, giving you long-term assurance.

Damp Survey in London

At Peter Cox London, our qualified damp surveyors have over 70 years of experience helping local homes and commercial clients tackle damp problems. We understand the unique challenges London properties face. Our surveyors typically hold CSTDB, CSRT, or CSSW qualifications and follow strict industry standards. Peter Cox is also recognised by trusted bodies like Which? Trusted Trader and Safe Contractor, so you can trust our expertise.

What to Expect

Our London based surveyor will inspect the exterior, checking roofs, brickwork, and any potential high ground levels, then move inside to investigate evidence of damp, condensation, woodworm, and rot. We provide a detailed report with clear findings, photos, and a tailored treatment plan.

Peace of Mind

Most treatments come with a 20-year guarantee, ensuring long-term protection for your London property. Early detection helps prevent costly damage and keeps your home healthy.

Other Property Preservation Services in London

In addition to our specialist damp proofing, basement waterproofing, and woodworm treatments, Peter Cox offers a range of other services to protect and maintain your London property, addressing a variety of property care needs:

Areas We Cover: Property Preservation Services Across London

Peter Cox is proud to serve homeowners and businesses throughout the Greater London area. Our local surveyors have in-depth knowledge of the specific property preservation challenges in each borough, ensuring tailored and effective solutions.

Islington Property Preservation Specialists

Islington is characterised by its high concentration of Victorian and Georgian terraced houses, often with original timber floor joists and lath and plaster ceilings. These period properties, while adding to the area's charm, are often susceptible to rising damp in their brickwork and timber decay, requiring specialist preservation to maintain their structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.

1. Common Issues in Islington Properties

Islington properties frequently experience the following issues:

  • Rising damp due to the age of properties and the absence or failure of original damp proof courses
  • Woodworm infestations in older timber floor joists and roof structures
  • Condensation problems arising from inadequate ventilation in converted flats

2. Peter Cox Solutions for Islington Homes

Peter Cox has extensive experience in providing property preservation solutions for Islington's period homes. Our surveyors are skilled in identifying the specific needs of these buildings and implementing sympathetic and effective repairs.

3. Our services in Islington include:

  • Damp proofing solutions tailored to Victorian and Georgian construction
  • Woodworm treatments that preserve the integrity of original timbers
  • Ventilation systems designed to improve air flow and reduce condensation

Postcodes Covered in Islington

N1 (Angel, Canonbury), N4 (Finsbury Park), N5 (Highbury), N7 (Holloway), N19 (Upper Holloway), NW1 (Barnsbury),

Greenwich Property Preservation Experts

Greenwich's diverse landscape includes historic maritime areas, modern developments, and residential properties. Properties closer to the River Thames, as well as older terraced housing in areas like Deptford and Woolwich, are at higher risk of basement flooding and penetrating damp, demanding specialised preservation knowledge.

1. Common Issues in Greenwich Properties

Properties in Greenwich often encounter these problems:

  • Basement waterproofing challenges in areas with high water tables and proximity to the Thames
  • Penetrating damp in properties exposed to wind-driven rain, particularly those with older brickwork
  • Condensation issues in both older and newer properties due to varying ventilation levels

2. Peter Cox Solutions for Greenwich Properties

Properties in Greenwich often encounter these problems:

  • Basement waterproofing challenges in areas with high water tables and proximity to the Thames
  • Penetrating damp in properties exposed to wind-driven rain, particularly those with older brickwork
  • Condensation issues in both older and newer properties due to varying ventilation levels

3. Our services in Greenwich include:

  • Basement waterproofing systems designed to protect against groundwater ingress and tidal influences
  • Penetrating damp treatments that safeguard against weather-related damage
  • Ventilation solutions that improve air quality and prevent condensation, protecting both the building and its occupants

Postcodes Covered in Greenwich

SE3 (Blackheath), SE7 (Charlton), SE10 (Greenwich), SE18 (Woolwich), SE8 (Deptford), SE13 (Lewisham),

Wandsworth Property Preservation Experts

Wandsworth is a borough with a mix of property types, from Victorian and Edwardian terraces to modern riverside developments. This diversity presents a range of property preservation challenges, with older properties being susceptible to damp and timber issues, while newer developments may require specialist waterproofing.

1. Common Issues in Wandsworth Properties

Wandsworth properties often experience the following problems:

  • Rising damp in older terraced houses, particularly in areas like Battersea and Tooting.
  • Basement waterproofing issues in properties undergoing conversion or located near Clapham Common.
  • Condensation and mould growth in properties with inadequate ventilation.
  • Woodworm infestation in older timber floor joists and roof structures.

2. Peter Cox Solutions for Wandsworth Properties

Peter Cox offers tailored property preservation solutions to address the specific needs of Wandsworth properties:

  • Damp proofing treatments designed for Victorian and Edwardian construction.
  • Basement waterproofing systems to protect against groundwater and lateral dampness.
  • Ventilation solutions to improve air flow and reduce condensation.
  • Woodworm treatments to eliminate infestations and preserve timber.

Postcodes Covered in Wandsworth

SW4 (Clapham), SW11 (Battersea), SW12 (Balham), SW17 (Tooting), SW18 (Wandsworth Town), SW19 (Wimbledon),

Kensington & Chelsea Property Preservation Experts

Wandsworth is a borough with a mix of property types, from Victorian and Edwardian terraces to modern riverside developments. This diversity presents a range of property preservation challenges, with older properties being susceptible to damp and timber issues, while newer developments may require specialist waterproofing.

1. Common Issues in Kensington & Chelsea Properties

Kensington & Chelsea properties often experience the following problems:

  • Damp proofing issues in older stucco-fronted houses, requiring careful and sympathetic treatment.
  • Basement waterproofing for properties undergoing extensive basement conversions to maximise living space.
  • Timber decay in period properties, including issues like dry rot and woodworm.
  • Condensation problems in properties with poor ventilation, which can affect valuable interior finishes.

2. Peter Cox Solutions for Kensington & Chelsea Properties

Peter Cox provides discreet and effective property preservation solutions tailored to the specific requirements of Kensington & Chelsea homes:

  • Specialised damp proofing techniques that are sensitive to the original fabric of period homes.
  • Comprehensive basement waterproofing systems for both existing and new basement conversions.
  • Expert timber treatments to eradicate woodworm and fungal decay, preserving valuable architectural features.
  • Ventilation solutions designed to minimise disruption and maintain the aesthetic integrity of the property.

Postcodes Covered in Kensington & Chelsea

SW3 (Chelsea), SW7 (South Kensington), W8 (Kensington), W10 (North Kensington), W11 (Notting Hill), W14 (West Kensington),

Frequently Asked Questions About Our London Property Preservation Services

We understand that you may have questions about property preservation and our services. Here are some of the most common queries we receive from our London clients.

General London Property Preservation FAQs


  • Do you cover my area of London?

    Yes, Peter Cox provides comprehensive property preservation services throughout the Greater London area. We have teams of Peter Cox Technicians all throughout London and can schedule in damp and timber surveys on a day that suits you.


  • How quickly can you conduct a survey in London?

    We strive to provide prompt service and can typically schedule a survey within 5 working days, depending on availability. If you require an immediate survey we will try our best to accommodate your request. Contact us to confirm the earliest possible appointment.


  • Are your surveyors qualified to work on listed buildings in London?

    Yes, Peter Cox has extensive experience in working with historic and listed buildings in London. Our surveyors are sensitive to the specific requirements of these properties and adhere to conservation guidelines.


  • Do you provide services for both residential and commercial properties in London?

    Yes, we offer our full range of property preservation services to both residential and commercial clients across London, from individual homeowners to large-scale property developers.

Rising Damp FAQs


  • What are the typical causes of rising damp in London properties?

    Typical causes of rising damp in London include ageing or failed damp proof courses, bridged damp proof courses (often due to external alterations), and the use of porous building materials common in older constructions.


  • How do you treat rising damp in older London homes?

    We employ a combination of chemical injection damp proofing to create a new damp proof course and salt retardant replastering to address existing salt contamination, carefully tailored to the specific construction of the building.

Contact Peter Cox London Today for Expert Property Preservation

For expert advice and effective solutions to your property preservation needs, contact Peter Cox London today. Call us at 0808 250 8820 or use our online contact form to schedule a survey and take the first step towards protecting your property.

Next Steps

Peter Cox Ltd
Units 2 - 3 Wendle Court 131 - 137 Wandsworth Road
London
SW8 2LH

*Survey enquiries for your local branch will be directed to our dedicated central survey control teams across the UK. Calls to numbers beginning 01 or 02 are charged at your local rate as set by your provider.