Dry summer may lead to increase in household subsidence

Householders are being urged to look out for the early signs of subsidence on their property as the UK experiences the driest period for more than 80 years, according to home insurance provider M&S Money.

The Met Office has said that average rainfall for January to June this year was 356.8mm - the lowest reading since 1929 when 275.7mm was recorded.

While the drier conditions have led to pressure on water resources in some areas, home insurance companies are warning about the increased risk of household subsidence.

Dry weather often leads to an increased frequency of subsidence claims. Clay soil shrinks and becomes unstable as moisture is taken out of the soil by trees and shrubs near homes.

Claims data shows that there have been low levels of subsidence in the last three years due to relatively wet summers. 2006 was the last year in which there was an increased frequency as a result of a long dry period.

Andrew Ferguson, M&S Head of General Insurance, said: ‘The outlook for this summer is currently predicted to be 27% drier than average, so it looks like we have the conditions for subsidence losses. Repairing the damage caused by subsidence can cost of thousands of pounds, so it's vital to know the early signs to look out for.

‘The most obvious indication is cracking to the property. However, most buildings experience cracking at some time and there is no need to be alarmed by every crack that appears.

‘What should be looked out for are small, usually diagonal, cracks which suddenly appear in plaster work inside and outside bricks at weak points, such as around doors and windows. These may indicate movement in the building's foundations. The cracks will normally be thicker than a 10p coin, and usually be wider at the top. Householders who have concerns should contact their home insurer as soon as possible.'