This document discusses causes and remedies for dampness in buildings. It identifies several common sources of dampness such as rising damp from the soil, rain penetrating walls, and defects in construction. Dampness can cause issues like wood rot, metal corrosion, plaster peeling, and unhealthy indoor air quality. The document recommends constructing on well-draining sites, using water-resistant building materials, installing damp-proof courses, and treating wall surfaces to prevent moisture penetration. Special techniques include thick walls, hollow brick construction, and basement gravel layers to block damp rising from the soil.