I have come across a series of articles which suggest rising damp as such does not exist.
Any dampness is caused by other issues.
https://www.heritage-house.org/damp-and-condensation/all-about-the-pca/the-damp-con-collection/holland-damp-proofing-system-another-expensive-fraud.html
From that site
"It's inevitable that you will find dampness somewhere in an old house. Nothing lasts forever, but despite English weather, our old buildings stand the test of time better than any modern house.
The worst enemy of old houses is we humans - it's what we do to them, or fail to understand about them, that causes problems and makes you think you have to 'Damp Proof'.
Almost 100% of damp issues in buildings are caused by condensation, and lack of adequate ventilation.
If the only thing I can teach you on this website,
Heritage House, is to understand the difference between water as a gas, and water as a liquid,
and how temperature drives this difference, then I've done my job.
So: Read through this introduction, and start to get your head around the building blocks of damp problems and the solutions.
None of it is rocket science - but as you explore the internet, you will find that vast amounts of complete rubbish and scientific nonsense has been written, and continues to be written
- most of it in an attempt to sell either chemicals or widgets.
This website is dedicated to blowing that rubbish out of the water, and giving you a sound basis on which to learn about your home, how it works, where damp comes from, why it is there, and how to deal with it."
The chap has strong views on the Industry of 'Rising Damp", but it is an interesting read and needs assessment in your own way.
The issue of heating and its effect is worth a study by itself.
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