Business Details
46 Years
experience
Trusted Building Preservation Services
Established in 1980, RLH Developments is a family-run business with decades of experience in building preservation. Our expertise spans damp proofing, timber treatment, and structural repairs, serving local authorities, housing associations, private clients, and main contractors across London and the South East. We prioritise health and safety, with regular staff training and rigorous compliance to industry standards. Recognised as Contractor of the Year by the Property Care Association, we combine technical excellence with client-focused service. Our team of certified surveyors and operatives delivers tailored solutions for rising damp, condensation, dry rot, and other preservation challenges.With a reputation built on reliability and professionalism, we maintain transparent communication and minimise disruption during projects. Our testimonials from public and private clients attest to our commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. We operate from Croydon but serve Surrey, Sussex, Kent, and beyond, offering free surveys and competitive pricing. Our dedication to continuous improvement ensures we remain a trusted partner for both historic and modern properties.
Services
Damp Proofing
Plastering
Timber Treatment
Tanking
Woodworm Treatments
Wet Rot Eradication
Dry Rot Eradication
Structural Repairs
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- 40+ years of specialist experience in building preservation
- Awarded Contractor of the Year by the Property Care Association
- Family-run business with strict health and safety compliance
- Positive testimonials from local authorities and private clients
- Comprehensive solutions for damp, rot, and structural issues
Associations and certifications
- Property Care Association (PCA)
What people say
Excellent workmanship
Courteous and considerate
Efficient workers
Professional and efficient
Amazing job
Services
Damp Proofing
Our specialists diagnose and treat all damp types including rising damp, condensation, and penetrating damp. Using advanced techniques like damp proof courses and ventilation solutions, we protect properties from moisture damage. Clients benefit from tailored recommendations and long-lasting repairs that maintain structural integrity while improving indoor air quality.
Timber Treatment
We combat dry rot, wet rot, and woodworm infestations through comprehensive surveys and targeted treatments. Our methods include fungicidal applications, structural timber replacement, and moisture control systems. This preserves building integrity while ensuring safe, durable solutions for both historic and modern properties.
Tanking
Structural waterproofing solutions protect basements and underground spaces using cementitious coatings or cavity drain membranes. Our surveyors recommend optimal systems based on property conditions, providing guaranteed protection against water ingress while complying with British Standards.
Plastering
Specialist replastering addresses damp-contaminated walls using salt-retardant materials. We restore surfaces to accept decorative finishes while preventing future moisture damage. Historic buildings receive conservation-appropriate solutions that maintain architectural character during preservation work.
Structural Repairs
From minor repairs to comprehensive renovations, we restore structural elements affected by damp or decay. Services include resin repairs, timber replacement, and masonry work. Our approach balances modern techniques with traditional methods for seamless integration with existing building fabric.
People
Andy Godfree
Director & Technical Director
With over 30 years in building preservation, Andy leads technical operations and surveying. He specialises in damp diagnosis and has contributed to industry best practices through PCA involvement. His expertise ensures compliance with health and safety standards across all projects.
Kerri O'Reilly
Director & Business Development Director
Kerri manages client relationships and business growth. She focuses on maintaining the company's reputation for excellence while expanding service offerings. Her strategic leadership contributed to winning the PCA Contractor of the Year award in 2022.
Mark Edwards
Contracts Manager
Mark oversees project execution and quality control. With 25 years' experience in preservation contracts, he ensures timely delivery while maintaining communication with clients about progress and potential challenges during complex restoration works.
Tracey Griffiths
Office Manager
Tracey coordinates administrative operations and client communications. She ensures smooth project transitions from quotation to completion, maintaining the company's 'no surprises' policy through regular updates to clients and stakeholders.
Karen Muscat
Credit Control Administrator
Karen manages financial operations and client accounts. She ensures transparent billing practices while maintaining compliance with financial regulations, supporting the company's commitment to ethical business practices.
Questions
What areas do you cover for building preservation services?
We operate from Croydon across London, Surrey, Sussex, and Kent. While our primary focus is the South East, we may consider projects outside this area depending on scope and requirements.
How do you handle damp issues in historic buildings?
Our specialists use conservation-appropriate methods including membrane systems that preserve original plaster while addressing rising damp. We maintain historical integrity while implementing modern preservation techniques for listed properties.
What happens during a timber treatment survey?
Our surveyors identify rot types through visual inspection and moisture testing. We then recommend targeted treatments, which may include fungicidal applications, structural repairs, or improved ventilation systems to prevent recurrence.
Can you provide emergency building preservation services?
While we don't offer 24/7 emergency services, we prioritise urgent cases and aim to respond within 24 hours for critical preservation issues requiring immediate attention.
How do you ensure minimal disruption during projects?
We implement protective coverings, maintain daily cleaning routines, and communicate progress updates. Our team works efficiently to complete projects within agreed timescales while respecting property occupants.
What accreditations do you hold?
We are members of the Property Care Association and have won their Contractor of the Year award. Our health and safety documentation meets industry standards, with regular staff training and compliance audits.
