5 Property Myths That Could Cost You Thousands

5 Home Maintenance Mistakes That Could Cost You Thousands

When it comes to property care, small home maintenance mistakes can lead to big, expensive problems.. At CavClear, we see first-hand how misinformation about damp, wall ties, and insulation causes problems that could have been prevented or fixed much sooner.

Here are five property myths that could cost you thousands if you fall for them:

1. Home Maintenance Mistake #1: Believing All Cavity Wall Insulation Is Good

Not true. Some homes, especially those exposed to wind-driven rain or with porous brickwork, should never have had cavity wall insulation installed in the first place.

When insulation fails, it can trap moisture inside the walls, leading to damp, mould, and even structural damage. In some cases, as with timber-framed homes, lenders won’t even approve a mortgage if insulation is present.

If you notice damp patches or cold spots, a professional cavity wall insulation survey is essential to check for failure.

2. “Cracks in Brickwork Are Just Cosmetic”

One of the most common home maintenance mistakes we see is ignoring step cracking in brickwork. Hairline cracks might be harmless, but step cracking, horizontal cracks, or bulging walls are warning signs of wall tie failure.

Ignoring this can result in severe structural movement, expensive re-rendering, or even partial wall collapse. A simple wall tie survey can detect problems early, and replacement is far cheaper than major structural repairs later.

3. “Damp Means You Need a New Damp-Proof Course”

Homeowners often rush to install new DPCs, but most damp issues aren’t caused by rising damp. Penetrating damp, failed insulation, or cavity blockages are far more common and a DPC won’t solve those problems.

An independent damp survey identifies the true cause, saving you from wasting money on unnecessary treatments.

4. “If You Can’t See Mould, There’s No Problem”

Mould doesn’t always show up immediately. Insulation slumping in the cavity or trapped moisture can silently damage brickwork and timber before visible mould appears.

If you’ve noticed condensation, musty smells, or peeling plaster, it’s time to investigate before the issue becomes obvious (and costly).

5. “If It Passes a Basic Survey, It’s Fine”

Homebuyer surveys are great for flagging potential issues but often recommend further investigation. Too many homeowners ignore these recommendations until it’s too late.

If your surveyor has highlighted wall tie corrosion, insulation concerns, or damp, acting now can prevent thousands in future repair costs and protect your home’s value.

Get Expert Advice Before It’s Too Late

At CavClear, we specialise in:

• Wall tie surveys & replacement

• Damp surveys & solutions

• Cavity wall insulation surveys & safe removal

We provide detailed reports, clear advice, and certified remedial work, helping you protect your home and avoid expensive mistakes. Book your survey today, call 0333 220 2463 or contact us here.