Hotter summers and drier weather are making ground movement a bigger issue for UK homeowners. For many, the result can be expensive repairs, lengthy subsidence claims, and the worry of whether their insurance will cover the damage. Spotting the early signs, such as visible subsidence cracks, can help prevent small problems from turning into costly ones.
In this article, we will take a look at what subsidence is, the signs of subsidence, why it can impact insurance, and how to reduce the risk of it.
What is subsidence?
Subsidence happens when the soil beneath a property shifts or sinks, leaving the structure above unstable. Hot weather, dehydrated trees, leaking drains, and old mining work can all trigger it.
When a house begins to move unevenly, pressure builds up on walls and floors. Over time, that strain leads to cracks, sticking doors, or uneven floors. Beyond the cosmetic damage, subsidence can affect the long-term safety, value, and insurability of your home.
What can cause subsidence?
There are several common causes of subsidence. This includes:
- Soil type: Clay soils shrink and crack during dry weather, especially in hotter summers, which can destabilise a property’s foundations.
- Tree roots: Large trees or shrubs close to a building can draw significant moisture from the soil, increasing the risk of shrinkage.
- Leaking drains or pipes: Water escaping underground can wash away soil or soften the ground beneath a property.
- Mining or ground movement: In some areas, historical mining or natural shifts underground can cause land instability.
- Poor ground conditions or foundations: Homes built on made-up ground or with shallow foundations may be more prone to movement.
What are the signs of subsidence?
Catching subsidence early can save you both money and stress. Here are the key warning signs to look out for:
Spotting subsidence cracks
- Cracks wider than a 10p coin, especially those that are diagonal or zig-zagging
- Cracks near doors, windows, or where an extension joins the main house
- Gaps that widen at one end and taper at the other
Other telltale clues
- Doors and windows are sticking or no longer closing properly
- Sloping or uneven floors
- Cracks are visible both inside and outside the walls
Not all cracks mean subsidence. Hairline cracks, for example, can simply be part of a home’s natural settling, but if you notice the above subsidence cracks, it’s worth seeking professional advice.
How subsidence insurance works
Most home insurance policies include some form of subsidence insurance, but the details vary. Typically, cover will include repairs to the main structure of the home and sometimes the cost of alternative accommodation if it becomes unsafe to stay in the property.
What’s usually excluded are garden walls, patios, and fences, unless they’re damaged at the same time as the house. Another point worth noting is the excess, which is often much higher for subsidence claims, commonly around £1,000.
Checking the terms of your policy is essential. Having the right subsidence insurance in place ensures you’re not left facing repair bills alone if your home is affected.
Making a subsidence claim
If you notice the signs of subsidence, the next step is to get in touch with your insurer. They will usually arrange for an expert to assess the damage. In many cases, properties need to be monitored over time to confirm that the ground movement is ongoing before repairs are approved.
Repairs can be straightforward, like fixing a leaking pipe, or more extensive, such as underpinning foundations. Once a subsidence claim has been made, the property will carry that history for the future. Insurers often increase premiums or restrict cover, and buyers may be cautious if you choose to sell. Keeping all documents and repair records helps to reassure both insurers and future homeowners.
Reducing the risk of subsidence
While subsidence can’t always be avoided, some steps help lower the risk. Keeping drains and gutters clear reduces the chance of water weakening the soil. Large trees should be planted at a safe distance from buildings, and existing ones should be managed with professional advice. Acting quickly to fix leaks inside or outside the home also makes a big difference.
Staying on top of maintenance may not remove the risk entirely, but it does limit the chance of developing new subsidence cracks and protects the structure of your home in the long run.
How Nest GI can help
At Nest GI, we know how stressful finding the right insurance for subsidence and claims can be. Our team can help you review your insurance and make sure your property is fully protected. Don’t leave it until the damage begins! Get in touch with us today.
