The hidden link between subsidence issues and summer weather issues and what to do if you suspect you have subsidence issues?

As a result of the warmest summer on record and below average rainfall in the South & East of England. The occurrence of subsidence has been noted to be on the increase with the probability of an influx of subsidence related issues in the coming months.

Initial signs that your building may be affected by subsidence is sticking doors, cracks in walls and ceilings and isolated areas of distortion. Prompt action is crucial in mitigating the escalation of damage.

EAP is dedicated to ensuring what you value the most, receives the right action and solution. Our structural and geotechnical engineers coupled with specialist claims consultants that are approved and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority are well placed to investigate the damage and deal with any associated insurance claim.

A subsidence crack in a residential home.

Assessment of Damage

EAP charted structural engineers, and geotechnical engineers carry out inspection and investigation to determine the cause of the damage. This may include the installation of monitoring, investigation of the building’s foundation, soil testing and if appropriate the formulation of temporary repair to ensure the building remains habitable. Recommendation will also be made if necessary for immediate measures that will ensure the safety of its occupants.

Our Client & Experience

In 2022, we began working with a homeowner in Cambridge who had started to notice cracking and movement within their property. Initially, the signs were relatively minor, but as time passed the problem became more pronounced. By 2023, the property was experiencing significant subsidence damage and movement and in 2024 further signs of worsening subsidence were recorded.

From the outset, our priority was to combine accurate diagnosis with long-term support. We installed specialist monitoring equipment to measure ground and structural movement over time. This data has been vital in building a clear picture of the scale and progression of the issue, as well as in determining the most appropriate remedial action.

A subsidence crack that appeared in our Cambridge clients house.

Alongside technical monitoring, we’ve also supported the client through the often-complex insurance claims process. Subsidence claims can be lengthy and detail-heavy, requiring robust evidence and clear reporting. By working closely with the insurer and providing the necessary technical reports, we’ve helped ensure our client’s claim has remained on track.

Your building insurance policy is most likely to provide cover for the repair of damage arising from the peril of subsidence. A loss adjuster is likely to be appointed by the insurer to deal with the claim on their behalf. The claimant may not have the knowledge or time to resolutely deal with the matter. At EAP we have a dedicated specialist claims team who resolutely pursue the claim on behalf of the claimant.

Remedial Work

A specification of repair is prepared that is required to remediate the damage caused by the subsidence. In some instances, this may simply involve the repair of crack damage and relocation. Where damage is more serious and can only be prepared by the installation of major foundation work, our chartered structural engineers, prepare the appropriate scheme and obtain the necessary building regulation approval.

If you would like to know more about subsidence investigation and the claim process, we are here and ready to help. Please contact us on 01206 768556.