I have had an independent damp survey carried out by Checkwood (was recommended by someone on this forum).

I have just had the findings and recommendations reported to me.

The surveyor has reported that there is evidence of rising damp in places and has recommended various remedial works to deal with it, such as using lime plaster as an alternative to water proof plaster (note alternative, he did not discount waterproof plastering). He also recommends removing damp skirting boards and isolating the new skirtings with a damp proof membrane. He suggests that an injectable damp proof membrane be used in a small area as this may be more cost effective in that area.

Another recommendation includes lowering ground levels in most areas outside the proprety and installing French Drains along most of the external walls.

Has anyone on this forum ever had french drains installed? Is it a 'big expensive job'? Is it difficult?

He certainly did not recommend the extensive chemical damp proofing recommended by the damp proofing company. I feel it is a rather 'eclectic' bunch of recommendations.

The idea that you should lower the ground level outside, would suggest to me, that there is nothing wrong with the damp course.

It would seem that the DPC is fine. Well, it's breeched in areas and in one place is broken (very small area).

Have you any experience of french drains though?

If by 'French drains' you mean the smeicircular section, flat topped, long drainage channels, with a grille on top, I put this around an outside porch, where ater collected, with the end ging into the normal drain. (I did this after some research, including looking in supermarket car parks). If you have water lying in places you'd rather not, it's a good idea, but it needs a STihl saw to cut out concrete if there's concrete by the wall; dusty but not all that dificult really.

Have a look here:

www.handr.co.uk

Should answer your questions.
Mel.