Usually, buildings insurance includes subsidence, but the excess is normally much higher than for other building claims.
What is subsidence?
- It is downward movement of the ground beneath part of a building.
- Possible causes include shrinkable clay, tree influence, leaking drains and local ground problems.
Which signs matter most?
- Cracks that are widening.
- New diagonal cracks near doors or windows in a situation involving does home insurance cover subsidence.
- Doors or windows becoming distorted at the same time.
- Movement that continues rather than staying unchanged.
Reducing avoidable causes of ground movement
- Keep drains and water services in good repair.
- Manage large nearby trees with proper advice.
- Avoid planting unsuitable trees close to foundations.
Check the subsidence excess and previous-movement questions
Look at the subsidence excess and any questions about previous movement. A history of subsidence can affect future cover.