Caravan Damp: Early Warning Signs, Repair Costs & Prevention Tips (2025 UK Guide)

Caravan Damp: Early Warning Signs, Repair Costs & Prevention Tips (2025 UK Guide)

Damp is every caravan owner’s worst nightmare — and with good reason. Left undetected, damp can cause serious structural damage, destroy internal furniture, invalidate warranties, and cost thousands of pounds to repair.

The problem? Damp often starts silently, hidden behind wallboards, lockers and seals — long before visible damage appears.

As an AWS-approved workshop, KamperBitz carries out hundreds of damp inspections every year. In this guide, we explain how to spot caravan damp early, what causes it, how much repairs typically cost in the UK, and — most importantly — how to prevent it.

🌧️ What Is Caravan Damp?

Caravan damp occurs when water penetrates the bodywork or seals and becomes trapped within walls, floors or roofs. Unlike surface condensation, damp soaks into timber frames, insulation and panels, leading to:

• Rot

• Mould

• Delamination

• Loss of structural integrity

Once established, damp never dries out on its own — it must be identified and repaired correctly.

⚠️ Early Warning Signs of Caravan Damp

The earlier damp is detected, the cheaper it is to fix. Watch out for these common signs:

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1. Musty or Damp Smell

Often the very first clue — especially after the caravan has been closed up.

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2. Soft or Spongy Walls

Press gently around windows, corners and lockers. Softness usually indicates water ingress behind the wallboard.

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3. Bubbling or Rippling Wall Panels

This can indicate delamination caused by moisture breaking down adhesives.

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4. Staining Around Windows or Rooflights

Discolouration, yellowing or dark patches are classic warning signs.

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5. Doors or Lockers That Don’t Close Properly

Swollen timber frames can throw doors and lockers out of alignment.

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6. Visible Mould or Mildew

Often appears in corners, behind cushions, or inside lockers.

🔎 What Causes Damp in Caravans?

Most damp issues stem from failed seals or poor maintenance, not dramatic leaks.

Common Causes Include:

• Failed window seals

• Deteriorated rooflight seals

• Cracked or dried external sealant

• Loose awning rails

• Old or damaged roof joints

• Poor previous repairs

• Impact damage

• Blocked drainage channels

Even a pin-sized gap can allow enough water in over time to cause major damage.

🧪 How Is Caravan Damp Detected?

At KamperBitz, damp is identified through a systematic moisture inspection, not guesswork.

🔧 Damp Testing Includes:

• Moisture meter readings across all walls

• High-risk areas tested (corners, windows, roof joints)

• Floor edge testing

• Bathroom and kitchen areas

• External locker surrounds

• Under seating and bed boxes

📊 Understanding Moisture Readings:

• 0–15% → Normal

• 15–20% → Monitor closely

• 20–30% → Damp present

• 30%+ → Serious water ingress

📌 High readings don’t always mean structural damage — but they always mean investigation is required.

💷 How Much Does Caravan Damp Repair Cost in the UK?

This depends entirely on how early the damp is detected.

💰 Typical UK Repair Costs:

• Minor resealing: £150–£400

• Localised timber repair: £500–£1,200

• Window/roof panel rebuilds: £1,500–£3,000+

• Extensive structural repair: £5,000+

Early detection during a habitation check can reduce costs by thousands.

🛠️ How Is Caravan Damp Repaired?

Damp repair is not just “drying it out”. Proper repair involves:

1. Identifying the ingress point

2. Removing affected panels or frames

3. Replacing damaged timber and insulation

4. Rebuilding with correct materials

5. Resealing using approved sealants

6. Re-testing moisture levels

Anything less is a temporary fix.

🧾 Does Damp Affect Warranty or Insurance?

⚠️

Yes — significantly

• Most manufacturers require annual habitation checks

• Missed checks can invalidate damp warranties

• Insurance claims may be refused if maintenance is lacking

• Poor repair records reduce resale value

Keeping documented checks protects your investment.

🛡️ How to Prevent Caravan Damp (Expert Tips)

Prevention is far cheaper than repair.

✔

Annual Habitation Checks

Your first line of defence.

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Regular Seal Inspections

Check windows, rooflights and rails at least twice a year.

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Good Ventilation

Always use roof vents and airflow — especially during storage.

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Store Correctly

If possible, store with a breathable cover or undercover.

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Fix Small Issues Immediately

Loose trims or cracked sealant should never be ignored.

🚨 Common Damp Hotspots We See at KamperBitz

From real inspections:

• Rear corners near lights

• Front locker boxes

• Around rooflights

• Bathroom walls

• Awning rail fixings

• Floor edges near doors

• External shower points

These areas should always be checked carefully.

🗓️ How Often Should Damp Be Checked?

• Annually as part of a habitation check

• Before buying a used caravan

• After long periods of storage

• After impact or storm damage

📅 Book a Damp Inspection With KamperBitz

If you suspect damp — or want peace of mind — we can help.

🔧 AWS-approved damp inspections

📍 Workshop & mobile service available

📞 07918 613639

🌐 www.kamperbitz.co.uk

Early checks save money. Simple as that.