Ventilation
Kitchen ventilation
Extraction that removes cooking moisture at source, reducing condensation across the property.
What the issue is
Cooking, washing and drying release significant moisture in kitchens. Ducted extraction at source is considerably more effective than recirculating filters.
Common symptoms
- Condensation on kitchen windows
- Mould on nearby walls or ceilings
- Cooking smells persisting
- Damp spreading to adjoining rooms
Likely contributing factors
- Recirculating cooker hood rather than ducted
- No dedicated extract fan
- Tumble drying without extraction
- Blocked or disconnected duct
Conditions that may be mistaken for it
- A plumbing leak beneath units
- Penetrating damp on an external kitchen wall
How the issue should be investigated
- Assess existing extraction and duct arrangement
- Measure room conditions
- Identify a viable external duct route
Potential treatment or repair options
- Ducted extract fan or hood
- Duct replacement or rerouting
- Humidity-controlled operation
- Background ventilation improvements
When treatment may not be appropriate
- Where an existing ducted system only requires cleaning or repair
Factors affecting the cost
- Unit type and duct route
- Cabinetry alterations
- Electrical works
- Making good
What to expect during an inspection
A practical assessment of the kitchen layout, existing extraction and viable duct routes.
Final recommendations always depend on the property, the inspection findings and the confirmed cause. Elevated readings alone do not confirm rising damp, not every mould problem requires extensive treatment, and damp-affected plaster does not always need replacing.
Frequently asked questions
Next step
Not sure which inspection you need? Start with a few questions.
Tell us what you are seeing and we will set out what is likely, what is uncertain and which inspection would answer the question. Speak to us on 0333 335 6152 if you would rather talk it through.