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Subsidence

Subsidence occurs when the ground beneath a property shifts or sinks, causing the building’s foundations to move. This can lead to structural instability, cracks, and long-term damage if not addressed.

How to Identify Subsidence

Spotting the signs of subsidence early is crucial for minimising its impact.

Cracks in Walls: Diagonal cracks, wider than 3mm, often around windows, doors, or where extensions join the main building.
Doors and Windows Sticking: Warping frames or difficulty opening and closing them.
Leaning Structures: Chimneys or walls tilting noticeably.

Uneven Floors: Sudden slopes or dips in flooring can indicate movement beneath the property.
Gaps Between Walls and Floors: Spaces appearing where walls meet floors or ceilings.

Why is Subsidence Bad?

Subsidence is a serious structural issue that can lead to:

Structural Instability

If untreated, subsidence can compromise the safety of your property.

Costly Repairs

Correcting subsidence often requires extensive and expensive work.

Property Devaluation

Homes with a history of subsidence can be harder to sell or may be devalued.

Insurance Complications

Properties with subsidence often face higher insurance premiums or difficulty obtaining coverage.

Cost of Treating Subsidence

The cost of addressing subsidence depends on the severity of the issue and the method used.

£500–£1,500

Monitoring

for professional assessments over time to determine the extent of the problem.

£500–£3,000

Tree and Root Removal

depending on the size and location of trees causing the issue.

£500–£2,000

Repairing Leaks

to fix leaking drains or pipes contributing to subsidence.

£10,000–£50,000

Underpinning

for strengthening foundations, depending on the property size and the depth of work needed.

Risks of Buying a House with Subsidence

Purchasing a property with subsidence without knowing it can lead to significant issues:

Expensive Repairs

The cost of addressing subsidence can be a major financial burden.

Insurance Problems

Many insurers exclude subsidence damage unless it’s disclosed and repaired before coverage begins.

Resale Challenges

Subsidence can make the property less attractive to future buyers, impacting its value.

Worsening Damage

Ignoring subsidence can lead to escalating damage, requiring more extensive repairs.

Benefits of Having a Home Survey

We understand that buying a home is one of the biggest investments you'll make. That’s why our expert home surveys give you the confidence to move forward by uncovering hidden issues, ensuring you’re not overpaying, and helping you secure your mortgage with ease.

Early Detection

Identifies the presence of any potential issues before purchase.

Peace of Mind

Provides clarity on what you’re buying and potential risks

Cost Savings

Enables negotiation with the seller or inclusion of a treatment plan

Financial Protection

Prevents future expenses linked to legal disputes or repair costs.