Insurance News Archive

Subsidence cases on the increase

Subsidence cases are on the increase and now is the time to protect homes, according to insurers.

A 50 per cent increase in subsidence claims has been experienced over the last five years, according to figures from the Association of British Insurers (ABI).

Last year alone, UK insurers paid out £302 million for subsidence claims.

With summer approaching, advice is being given to homeowners to be on the lookout for subsidence.

The risk of subsidence increases during the summer as vegetation in the garden is growing rapidly and demands more moisture – when at the same time the weather is at its driest.

Properties in the south-east are particularly at risk since they are more likely to be built on clay soil, which easily yields moisture to thirsty trees and plants.

Neil Curling, senior structural claims manager at Halifax Home Insurance, says: "People don't knowingly cause subsidence, but there are ways homeowners can help to reduce the risk of such damage to their home.

"Signs that a property might be suffering from subsidence include cracks in walls, particularly if they are start from corners of windows or doors which themselves may become difficult to open or close," he added.

The problem is expected to worsen over the years as global warming continues.

13 Apr 2007