Subsidence Insurance:
Subsidence insurance is there to protect those whose houses are sinking into the ground and moving on their foundations. Although this usually isn’t as damaging as it sounds, it can be an incredibly severe issue and subsidence insurance is there to protect those who otherwise would have to pay out for damages on their subsiding house.
A string of unusually dry weather can knock this off balance and cause a disturbance, as the clay soil never gets a chance to recover. From here, problems arise, and lasting damage can be done to the property. Damaged drains can also cause issues regarding subsidence, the underground water leaks weakening the soil structure and compromising the structure’s foundations.
The distinctive cracks caused by subsidence are difficult to miss. They are thicker than a ten pence piece and wider at the top than the bottom. These cracks along with any new ones appearing at weak points in the house’s plaster should be of concern to anyone who has suspicions their house is currently subsiding. You should remember though, that cracks in any house, old or new, can be perfectly normal. What you should be worried about are those that appear to worsen in a short period of time – weeks or months. Many ‘normal’ cracks will settle and remain the same for years.
Regarding existing trees that are close to the property, your next move depends on the age of the tree. Any vegetation planted after the house was built should be removed, unlike trees that are older than the property. Removal of these trees can actually make your situation worse, leading to swelling in the soil, an unfortunate development known as ‘heaving’. An expert should be called when sorting out any older vegetation, the management of this being a specialist business.
When it comes to being covered, Subsidence insurance should be enough for damage caused by subsidence. If you begin to notice cracks, you should contact your insurer and check what it is you’re insured for. From here, a structural engineer will be sent to your home that will assess the situation. Sadly, this can take an incredibly large amount of time, at least twelve months’ worth of monitoring in most situations.
Along with this, the excess on a subsidence claim is usually very high, as much as £1000 in many situations and even £5000 if your house was built in what is deemed a ‘high-risk area’. You’re best checking the details of your policy regarding this. It’s also best to bear in mind that most policies will not cover damage to garden walls, gates or fences.
Is your home affected by subsidence? Do you need a competitive quote to protect your home? Call Alternative Insurance Brokers today on 0161 388 2538.