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Damp proofer

Damp causes serious problems to buildings and can be dangerous to people’s health. As a damp proofer, you would prevent damp entering into buildings from the ground, and through walls and cracks. You could be installing damp-proof products and protecting bricks and timber. You may also repair structural damage and will need an understanding of drainage and ventilation systems.

Average salary*

£17000

-

£30000

How to become a damp proofer

There are several routes to becoming a damp proofer. You can gain qualifications by doing a college course, an apprenticeship, or on-the-job training. 

You should explore these routes to find out which is the right one for you. Although some of these options will list qualification requirements many employers are more interested in people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and can follow instructions.

You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site. 

College/training provider

You may have to attend a specialist college or training provider in order to become a damp proofer. You could complete a Level 2 NVQ in Insulation and Building Treatments (Construction) Wood Preserving and Damp-proofing. 

Find out what the entry requirements are where you live.

Apprenticeship

An apprenticeship with a construction firm is a good way into the industry. Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice, you will be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on-the-job experience and a college or training provider.

To become a damp proofer you would complete a Specialist Apprenticeship Programme, focusing on the treatment of damp in buildings. It takes around 2 years to complete and offers on-the-job training, with time at a specialist training provider. 

Find out what the entry requirements are where you live.

Work

If you already work in the construction industry you may have gained the experience to become a damp proofer. Some companies may offer short training courses to give more specialist skills.  You can apply directly to these companies via the Property Care Association (previously the British Wood Preserving and Damp Proofing Association) website.

Work experience

Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry. You could gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works in construction. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV.  

Skills

Additional skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a damp proofer include:

  • Knowledge of building and construction
  • Be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • Ability to work well with others
  • Be flexible and open to change
  • Patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
  • Ambition and a desire to succeed
  • Able to work well with your hands
  • Able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Qualifications

To become a Damp Proofer, you could complete a:

  • NVQ Level 2 Insulation and Building Treatments - Wood Preserving and Damp Proofing
  • Level 2 Damp Control and Timer Preservation Operative apprenticeship 

To become a Damp Proofer, you could complete a:

  • SVQ at SCQF Level 5 & Level 6 in Insulation and Building Treatments (Construction)
  • SCQF Level 5 & Level 6 in Insulation and Building Treatments (Construction)

To become a Damp Proofer, you could complete a:

  • Level 3 Insulation and Building Treatments

What does a damp proofer do?

As a damp proofer you will be responsible for checking and identifying issues with damp, and then repairing any problems you find.

The job role of a damp proofer includes the following duties:

  • Inspecting properties and identifying damp problems
  • Cleaning and preparing areas for treatment
  • Laying damp proof membranes
  • Filling walls with damp proof materials such as silicone
  • Ensuring buildings have adequate drainage and good ventilation
  • Giving advice to clients or contractors
  • Working outdoors in all weathers.

How much could you earn as a damp proofer?

The expected salary for a damp proofer varies as you become more experienced

  • Newly trained damp proofers can earn £17,000 - £20,000
  • Trained damp proofers with some experience can earn £20,000 - £30,000*
  • Self-employed damp proofers set their own pay rates.

Hours and salary depend on location, employer and any overtime you may do.

* Salaries have been collected from multiple industry sources

Jobs

Check out the latest Damp Proofer vacancies: 

As these are external websites, the number of job vacancies related to your preferred job role may vary. New opportunities will be posted as they come up.

Career path and progression

With experience, you could work for homeowners, building companies or businesses.

You could do further training and specialise in building restoration or protecting new builds.

Alternatively, you could progress into a senior or project manager role and earn a higher salary. You could also set up your own business and work as a subcontractor.

Progression Opportunities

Explore the progression opportunities below

  • Current role Damp proofer Preventing serious damage to buildings, damp proofers identify damp problems & i...
    Read more
  • Current role Construction Team Leader Take the next step in your career as an Occupational Supervisor. Work with new m...
    Read more
  • Current role Self employed contractor As a contractor or subcontractor, you'll be working directly with your clients t...
    Read more
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