To fix damp problem or not on internal wall

[wbuchan]

floor types - Floor boards on both sides of internal wall
ground heights (for ext. walls) Around 6 inches above base of original air brick. Air brick is in a well to allow air to circulate
plaster type - lime, some carboniferous particles
wall construction - Internal wall is brick, External wall is Stone
problem being experienced - discrete damp patches above 8" skirting board
what the room is used for - entrance hall/sitting room

The damp patches show as dark areas on painted lining paper, that is lifting slightly in the entrance hall. In the sitting room I've stripped the wood chip. There is evidence of long term damp in the sitting room, in small areas that correspond to the patches in the hall.

However the plaster feels dampish but is in very good condition given age (1866 house).

The house is built on a hill, damp wall is at front of house on the low side of the slope, where the ground height has risen above air brick level.

I think I ought to lower the ground height before doing anything else.

What suggestions/experience do you have?

Walt

 

[MdB]

I think I ought to lower the ground height before doing anything else.

Yep. I did this a year ago and the damp is certainly reduced.