Subsidence Insurance Claims
Professional subsidence investigation and insurance claims support. We provide drainage surveys, structural assessment, and comprehensive documentation to help you secure fair compensation.
Understanding Subsidence Claims
Subsidence occurs when the ground beneath your property sinks or collapses, causing the foundations to move and the building structure to crack and distort. It's one of the most serious types of property damage and can be extremely costly to repair.
Drainage issues are a leading cause of subsidence. Leaking drains can wash away soil beneath foundations, while tree roots seeking water from damaged pipes can destabilize the ground. Professional drainage investigation is essential for subsidence claims.
Common Causes of Subsidence
Leaking Drains
Water escaping from damaged drainage pipes washes away soil beneath foundations, creating voids that cause subsidence.
Tree Root Damage
Tree roots extract moisture from clay soil, causing it to shrink. Roots can also damage drainage pipes, exacerbating the problem.
Soil Shrinkage
Clay soil shrinks during dry periods and expands when wet, causing ground movement that affects foundations.
Poor Construction
Inadequate foundations, poor drainage design, or construction on unsuitable ground can lead to subsidence.
Signs of Subsidence
Warning Signs to Watch For
- Cracks in walls — especially diagonal cracks wider than 3mm, often near doors and windows
- Doors and windows sticking — frames becoming distorted and difficult to open or close
- Cracks in exterior brickwork — particularly stepped cracks following mortar lines
- Gaps around window and door frames — where frames pull away from walls
- Rippling wallpaper — caused by plaster cracking beneath
- Sloping floors — noticeable unevenness in floor levels
- Cracks in paths or driveways — indicating ground movement around the property
What Subsidence Insurance Covers
Most buildings insurance policies cover subsidence, including:
- Structural repairs including underpinning and foundation work
- Drainage repairs if leaking drains contributed to subsidence
- Investigation costs including CCTV surveys and structural surveys
- Monitoring to track crack movement over time
- Tree removal if roots are causing the problem
- Alternative accommodation during major repair works
- Redecoration after structural repairs are complete
Important Policy Exclusions
Subsidence claims may be rejected if:
- Damage is less than the policy excess (often £1,000 or more)
- The property was built on a former mine or landfill site
- Damage is caused by coastal erosion or landslip
- You failed to maintain drainage systems properly
- The subsidence was known about before you took out insurance
Steps to Take if You Suspect Subsidence
Document All Cracks
Take photos of all cracks with a ruler or coin for scale. Note when you first noticed them and if they're getting worse.
Contact Your Insurer
Report potential subsidence immediately. Your insurer will arrange for a structural survey and investigation.
Get Drainage Survey
Call us for a CCTV drainage survey to identify any leaking or damaged drains that could be causing subsidence.
Monitor Movement
Your insurer may install crack monitors to track movement over several months before authorizing repairs.
Keep Detailed Records
Maintain a file with all photos, reports, correspondence, and receipts related to the subsidence claim.
How We Support Subsidence Claims
CCTV Drain Surveys
Identify leaking drains and structural damage with detailed video evidence
Technical Reports
Comprehensive drainage reports with findings and repair recommendations
Drainage Repairs
Expert repairs to fix leaking drains and prevent further subsidence
Related Insurance Claims
Free Subsidence Claim Checker
Check if your subsidence damage is covered by insurance in just a few minutes.
Need Help with Your Subsidence Claim?
Expert drainage surveys, investigation, and full claims support.
