Homeowners are being warned to be on the look out for the early signs their property is at risk as costs could rise into the thousands.
Subsidence is a result of the soil under property foundations drying out, reducing the load bearing capacity of the ground and causing buildings to shift. The number of properties suffering is likely to increase this year with the historically low levels of rainfall leaving the ground very dry. Trees and plants close to foundations can also contribute as they soak up a lot of moisture from the soil. Edwardian and Victorian houses are especially at risk as houses built before the 1960s normally have shallower foundations.
Mark Till, marketing director at Barclays Insurance, commented: “Whilst some areas of the country, such as the South are more prone to subsidence than others, the unusually hot weather will mean that more houses across the whole country could be affected. Last year we saw a sudden peak in subsidence notifications around August and September time and we predict that this figure could be even higher this year given the unusually dry year we have experienced.
“There are some things that homeowners can do to try and minimise the risk of subsidence such as pruning trees that are close to the house and regularly clearing gutters and drains. It is important to keep an eye out for the early signs of subsidence such as any new or expanding cracks in walls and doors or windows that become stuck, both of which can be signs of shifting walls and foundations. Most importantly, check the details of your insurance cover.”
