Causes, Impacts, and Remedial Measures for Rising Damp in Tropical Residential Buildings: A Study of Southern Adamawa State, Nigeria

Rising damp presents a critical challenge to residential and institutional buildings in the southern zone of Adamawa State, Nigeria, compromising structural stability, indoor air quality, and occupant well-being. This study investigates the underlying causes, observable effects, and practical mitigation strategies associated with rising damp in the region. Data were collected through field surveys, site observations, and moisture content analysis in thirty buildings across the Numan Local Government Area. Key findings reveal that the absence of damp-proof courses (DPCs), clayey and poorly drained soil, substandard construction materials, and inadequate site drainage significantly contribute to the prevalence of rising damp. Observed effects include visible salt deposits, mould growth, high indoor moisture levels, and material degradation. Remedial actions such as the injection of silicone-based chemical DPCs, installation of perimeter drainage trenches, waterproof replastering, and raised concrete aprons demonstrated measurable reductions in wall moisture content. The study recommends policy enforcement for mandatory DPC installation, capacity-building workshops for local builders, subsidised retrofitting for low-income households, and public education on moisture management. These findings underscore the need for integrated and context-specific interventions to mitigate dampness-related deterioration in the built environment.