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ARE UK PROPERTIES AT RISK FROM SUBSIDENCE

Are UK properties at risk from subsidence

After a wetter than average winter, swiftly followed by the sunniest spring on record, experts predict we could be heading for a repeat of 2003, when home insurance claims for subsidence rose by a staggering 400%!

After a wetter than average winter, swiftly followed by the sunniest spring on record, experts predict we could be heading for a repeat of 2003, when home insurance claims for subsidence rose by a staggering 400%!

Why does subsidence occur?

UK properties built on clay are particularly vulnerable from subsidence. Clay can become saturated in heavy continuous rainfall and expand in size. When heavy rain is followed by a long period of hot dry weather the moisture rapidly evaporates shrinking the clay back to its original size. This variation in the clay size creates movement in the ground, also known as subsidence. When this clay sits under the foundations of a property the structure can be affected and require assistance.

What will be the deciding factor?

What the weather does over the summer months will be the deciding factor as to whether we see a surge in subsidence claims later this year. The industry as a whole is waiting with bated breath and proactively implementing plans and resource should it be needed to deal with an influx of claims.

How will I know if my property has been affected by subsidence?

Often the first and most obvious sign of subsidence is the appearance of diagonal cracks in walls, ceilings and floors often showing on the inside and outside of a property. The cracks are usually narrower at the bottom and wider at the top and can be thicker than the edge of a 10 pence coin.

Do regularly check your property throughout the remainder of the year and should you notice any change act quickly to avoid further damage by contacting your insurance provider.

How can I repair and protect my property?

Depending on the severity of the subsidence and your property particulars there are two possible methods of treating subsidence, experts in the industry will be able to advise you as to which route is most suitable for you.

Usually subsidence caused by weather conditions can be treated in two different ways, both methods stabilising the ground underneath your property: 

Underpinning

Mass concrete underpinning is the traditional method to treat subsidence and prevent further movement and has been used for over a century. There are two approaches used, one being excavating short segments of the ground below the affected property foundations in controlled stages and filling the void with concrete and secondly utilising concrete pilings that are sunk into the ground and used to hold the foundation in place. 

Geopolymer Resin Injection

Geopolymer Resin Injection is the latest alternative to the traditional concrete underpinning. It is a unique solution and becoming more and more popular within the industry. The process involves creating small holes in the ground and injecting a unique expanding geopolymer resin. The resin then seeps into gaps under foundations of the property and expands filling the space and lifting the ground above. The process is less invasive than traditional methods and is closely monitored by lasers for accuracy giving the most precise solution to a subsidence problem.

Will there be future problems? 

Once the cause of the subsidence has been identified and treated there should be no further problems with your property as any work completed should prevent further movement in the ground.

Do you need some expert advice?

If you suspect your property is suffering from subsidence we recommend informing your property insurer and speaking to a specialist subsidence treatment company such as Westone Housing on 01733 320500 or visit www.westone.uk.com

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