🌦️ Damp, Cracks and Coastal Weather: What to Watch for in Spanish Homes
- HomeSurveyQuote.com
- Oct 6
- 2 min read
Sunshine outside - damp inside?
It sounds ironic, but many homes on the Spanish coast suffer from moisture and humidity problems, even in the sunniest regions like the Costa Blanca, Valencia and the Costa del Sol.
The mix of sea air, older construction methods, and limited insulation means damp is one of the most common issues flagged by surveyors in Spain.
If you’re an expat buyer, understanding why it happens - and how to spot it early - can save you serious repair costs later.
🧱 Common damp and weather-related problems
Rising damp - moisture that creeps up from the ground, especially in older villas or fincas without damp-proof courses.
Condensation and mould - from poor ventilation or homes left closed for months.
Salt damage (efflorescence) - white, powdery marks on walls caused by salty sea air.
Cracked render and tiles - from thermal expansion and contraction between hot summers and cool, humid winters.
These issues aren’t always visible on first viewing - which is exactly why an independent building survey is so valuable.
👉 If you haven’t yet, see our guide on why you always need a survey before buying in Spain.
🔍 What a surveyor checks for
Professional surveyors use tools like moisture meters and thermal cameras to identify:
Hidden damp behind walls or paintwork
Defective seals around windows, terraces or bathrooms
Roof leaks and broken drainage tiles
Structural movement or cracks that might worsen with weather exposure
The resulting report will separate cosmetic cracks from structural concerns, giving you clear confidence in your purchase.
🧰 What you can look for yourself
While viewing or renting a property short-term, check for:
Peeling or bubbled paint near skirting boards or window frames
Musty smells in bedrooms or wardrobes
Stains or shadows on ceilings
Flaking plaster on balcony walls
Even if you see nothing obvious, a survey before completion is the only way to confirm there’s no hidden damage.
👉 If you’d like a breakdown of survey pricing, check our Costa Blanca Survey Cost Guide (2025).
💡 Expat maintenance tip
If you’re buying a holiday home and plan to leave it closed for long periods:
Leave a small gap in window vents
Use portable dehumidifiers (smart plug models can be switched on remotely)
Ensure the property has external drains clear of leaves or debris
Prevention is cheaper than repair — and your surveyor can recommend specific maintenance routines for your property type.
👇 Ready to protect your investment?
Avoid costly repairs later — request a local inspection before you buy.
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