Yes, particularly on shrinkable clay soil. Long dry periods can reduce the volume of the soil and allow part of a foundation to move downwards.
Which homes are more at risk?
- Properties on shrinkable clay.
- Houses with large nearby trees.
- Homes where leaking drains have affected the ground.
Reducing avoidable ground problems
- Repair leaking drains and water pipes promptly.
- Avoid planting large high-water-demand trees close to foundations.
- Manage established trees with proper advice.
Which cracks deserve attention?
- Cracks that become noticeably wider during a long dry spell.
- Fresh cracking around openings that appears during prolonged dry weather.
- Doors or windows starting to stick at the same time as new cracking.
If dry weather leads to subsidence
It may. Subsidence is commonly included in buildings insurance, but the excess is often much higher than the standard buildings excess.