What Are The 5 Biggest Causes Of Subsidence?

Subsidence is a serious issue that can damage properties and decrease their value. Understanding the causes is crucial for protecting your property. Additionally, it is important that you recognise the main signs of potential subsidence, ideally before you choose a home. Once you know what to look out for, you will be able to make a more informed decision.

Here are the five biggest causes of subsidence:

Drought and Clay Soils

During drought, clay soils shrink as nearby vegetation absorbs water, leading to a decrease in soil volume. This can lower the support offered by the soil and thereby cause the building’s foundation to subside.

Tree Roots

Tree roots in clay subsoil can absorb moisture, causing the clay to shrink and the foundation to move, resulting in subsidence. You may be able to prevent this by regularly trimming tree branches, which in turn discourages roots from growing longer.

Burst or Leaking Pipes

Escaping water from burst or leaking pipes washes away soil particles, causing the foundation to subside. Look out for signs of leaks, such as slow running taps or wet floors and get them repaired as a matter of priority.

Caverns and Soil Erosion

Soil erosion creates caverns beneath the ground, causing the soil above to give way and subside over time.

Underground Mine Collapse

Even long-disused mines can collapse, leading to subsidence and potential property damage. This may not be something you are aware of in the immediate area of your home, so be sure to research the area that your property is located in to make sure you are informed of any disasters nearby that may affect the land that your home is built on.

Why is Subsidence Insurance Important?

To protect your property, consider subsidence insurance. It provides coverage for subsidence-related repairs, offering financial protection and peace of mind.

If you have concerns or need advice on subsidence insurance, contact an insurance provider or specialist in subsidence insurance. They can guide you in selecting the right coverage for your property. To speak to a member of the team at Crowthorne Insurance, just fill out this form. We will get back to you as soon as possible and be happy to advise on the next steps in obtaining subsidence insurance.