At Lansdown Insurance Brokers, we’ve seen the impact subsidence can have on properties, with some claims reaching staggering amounts. But subsidence isn’t the only ground movement problem that can affect your property, heave and landslip are also critical issues that require attention. Our Block of Flats Insurance and Landlord Insurance team discusses what you need to know about these ground movements, how to spot them, and what to do if your property is affected.
What is Subsidence?
Subsidence occurs when the ground beneath a property sinks, pulling the foundations down with it. This movement can cause walls and floors to shift, leading to cracks and potentially destabilising the entire structure. Various factors can cause subsidence, including clay shrinkage, tree roots, water erosion, and poor foundation work.
What is Heave?
Heave is essentially the opposite of subsidence. Instead of the ground sinking, it rises, pushing the foundations upward. This upward movement often results from the soil expanding due to excess moisture, which can happen when a large tree is removed, causing the soil to swell. Heave can lead to significant structural damage as it forces walls, floors, and foundations out of alignment.
What is Landslip?
Landslip refers to the sideways movement of the ground beneath a property, often caused by soil erosion or when a property is built on or near a slope. Unlike subsidence and heave, which involve vertical ground movement, landslip can shift the entire foundation horizontally, leading to severe structural issues.
How to spot signs of ground movement
Cracks in the Walls: Cracks can indicate subsidence, heave, or landslip. Subsidence cracks are often wider at the top, while heave-related cracks might appear wider at the bottom. Cracks from landslip can appear as diagonal fractures. Any crack wider than 3mm, visible both inside and outside the property, or located near doors and windows, should be investigated by a professional.
Changes in Doors and Windows: If your doors and windows no longer fit properly or have become difficult to open or close, this could be a sign of subsidence, heave, or landslip. These movements can distort the frame, making the fixtures misalign.
Ripples in Wallpaper: While dampness can cause wallpaper to wrinkle, subsidence, heave, or landslip can also lead to similar effects due to shifting walls.
Risks of Ignoring Subsidence, Heave, or Landslip
Ignoring these issues can lead to serious consequences, including:
Higher Insurance Premiums: Properties with these issues are more expensive to insure due to the increased risk of damage
Decreased Property Value: Properties with a history of ground movement are harder to sell and may fetch lower prices
Structural Damage: Over time, unresolved subsidence, heave, or landslip can cause extensive damage, making the property unsafe
While you can’t control every factor, there are steps you can take to reduce the risks:
- Maintain Guttering and Plumbing: Regularly check for leaks and ensure your guttering is in good condition to prevent water from saturating the soil around your property.
- Manage Trees Carefully: Avoid planting large trees near your property. If you already have trees nearby, consult a tree surgeon to manage their growth. While they can contribute to subsidence, removing them can sometimes lead to heave.
- Follow Building Regulations: Ensure any extensions or building work comply with regulations to avoid issues with foundations.
What to do if you suspect subsidence, heave or landslip
You must inform your insurance company and contact a professional surveyor immediately. They can assess the damage and recommend the appropriate course of action. Your insurer may send a surveyor on your behalf.
How do I repair subsidence, heave or landslip?
Depending on the severity of the issue, solutions may include underpinning for subsidence, soil treatment for heave, or stabilising the ground for landslip. Always follow building regulations during any repair work to prevent future problems.
Insuring a property with ground movement
Insurance for properties with ground issues is available, but it may come with higher premiums or and increased excess. Make sure you provide all necessary information to your insurance provider to ensure adequate cover.
By understanding the signs and taking preventative measures, you can protect your property and avoid costly repairs. If you suspect subsidence, heave or landslip, don’t delay—contact a professional and your insurance provider to address the problem as soon as possible.
For more information or assistance with regards to your insurance, feel free to reach out to Lansdown Insurance Brokers. We’re here to help you safeguard your property.
About Lansdown Insurance Brokers
Lansdown Insurance Brokers are specialists in Block of Flats Insurance and Landlord Insurance. We can provide flexible policies to suit individual client needs and provide advice on what cover is required. For more information call the team on 01242 524498.
Lansdown is part of the Benefact Group, a charity-owned, international family of financial services companies that gives all available profits to charity and good causes.