Signs of Subsidence: Identifying and Understanding Key Indicators

Subsidence refers to the downward movement of a building’s foundation due to changes in the underlying soil, which can lead to significant structural damage if not addressed promptly. In the UK, there are several common signs of subsidence you should be aware of:

Common Signs of Subsidence

1. Cracks in the Walls

One of the most visible signs of subsidence is the appearance of cracks in the walls. These cracks are often diagonal and tend to be wider at the top than at the bottom. They often appear around doors and windows, or where an extension joins the house. Subsidence cracks are typically at least 3mm wide, although they can be narrower.

2. Sticking Doors and Windows

If your doors or windows are sticking for no apparent reason, it could be a sign of subsidence. As the building’s foundations shift, it can distort the frames of doors and windows, making them difficult to open and close.

3. Rippling Wallpaper

If the wallpaper is rippling but there is no sign of damp, it could be a sign that the wall behind it is shifting due to subsidence.

4. Cracks or Movement in the Foundations

Any visible cracks or movement in the foundations of your home are serious signs of subsidence and should be inspected by a professional as soon as possible.

5. Sloping Floors

You may notice that floors in your house have started to slope or feel uneven underfoot. This can indicate that the foundations are sinking at one end of the house.

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Related Reading: Subsidence Explained

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6. Cracks in External Brickwork

Just like with internal walls, diagonal cracks in the external brickwork of your property could be a sign of subsidence. These are often found in the mortar rather than the bricks themselves.

7. Displaced Roof Tiles

Roof tiles may become displaced due to movement in the structure of the house, indicating potential subsidence.

8. Expansion of Existing Cracks

If you notice that existing cracks in your walls, ceilings or floors are getting wider or longer, this could be a sign of ongoing subsidence.

9. Leaning Walls

If walls begin to lean or bulge, it can suggest that one part of your house is sinking more than another.

10. Trees Close to the Property

Trees and large shrubs close to the property can cause subsidence. Certain species, like willows, poplars, and oaks, are particularly problematic as they can absorb a lot of water from the soil, causing it to shrink and the foundations to move.

Conclusion

Remember that not all cracks or signs of movement in a building are due to subsidence. Buildings naturally move and settle over time, and minor cracks can often be the result of this. However, if you’re noticing several of the above signs or are at all concerned, it’s best to get a professional surveyor or structural engineer to assess your property.

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Related Reading: Subsidence Claims In My Area: UK Guide

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Signs of Subsidence: FAQs

Q1: What are the tell-tale indicators of subsidence in my property?

Recognising the signs of subsidence early can prevent significant damage to your house. The most obvious indicators include new or expanding cracks in the walls, floors, or ceilings, especially around doors and windows. Other signs might be doors and windows that stick because their frames have been distorted, or wallpaper crinkling at wall-ceiling junctions.

Q2: How do I spot cracks that suggest my house might be experiencing subsidence?

A2: Not all cracks suggest subsidence. The ones linked to subsidence are usually diagonal, wider at the top, and thicker than a 10p coin. They often appear near doors and windows or where an extension joins the main house. Regular monitoring of any cracks can help in identifying subsidence early.

Q3: What are some less obvious signs of subsidence I should be aware of?

Apart from visible cracks, other less conspicuous signs of subsidence include rippling wallpaper not caused by damp, and doors or windows that become difficult to open or close due to the warping of frames.

Q4: Can certain areas of my home reveal subsidence signs more than others?

Yes, certain areas like the corners of rooms, around doors and windows, and where an extension has been added to your house are more prone to display signs of subsidence. Regular checks in these areas can be instrumental in early detection.

Q5: Do exterior signs of subsidence exist and what should I look for?

Absolutely, exterior signs of subsidence are often the first indicators. Look for widening cracks in the brickwork, particularly around windows and doors. Also, be aware of any leaning walls or sunken areas in the ground near your property.

Q6: Are there specific seasons when signs of subsidence are more noticeable?

The signs of subsidence can become more noticeable after long periods of dry weather as the soil can shrink, leading to movement in the foundations. Similarly, heavy rain can wash away or soften the ground, which can also cause shifts.

Q7: Does the age of my house affect the likelihood of showing signs of subsidence?

While subsidence can affect any building, older homes – especially those built before the 1960s on shallow foundations – can be more prone to subsidence. Therefore, regular inspections are vital in these properties to catch any signs early.

Q8: How does the appearance of my garden hint at possible house subsidence?

Changes in your garden can be an early warning sign of subsidence. Look out for any sunken areas or uneven ground, particularly near your home’s foundation. Cracks in garden walls or patios may also be indicative of subsidence.

Q9: Is there a connection between nearby trees and potential subsidence signs in my home?

Indeed, trees close to your home can potentially cause subsidence. Their roots may lead to soil shrinkage as they absorb moisture, resulting in ground movement. If you notice any new cracks in your home and have large trees nearby, it’s advisable to consult a professional.

Q10: Do all houses on clay soil show signs of subsidence?

Not all houses on clay soil will experience subsidence, but the risk can be higher due to clay’s propensity to shrink and swell based on moisture levels. Regular property checks are advised, especially after periods of extreme weather.

Q11: Can the presence of a basement increase the chance of subsidence signs in my home?

Basements themselves don’t necessarily increase the risk of subsidence, but if you notice unusual cracks in basement walls or floors, or doors that have started sticking, it could be an indication of foundation movement and potential subsidence.

Q12: How does underpinning help with subsidence signs in a house?

Underpinning is a process that helps strengthen the foundation of a house showing signs of subsidence. It provides extra support, preventing further downward movement. If you’re seeing subsidence indicators, consult with a structural engineer to discuss underpinning and other potential solutions.

Q13: Can plumbing leaks cause signs of subsidence in my property?

Yes, plumbing leaks can contribute to subsidence. Excess water can soften the soil, leading to ground movement. If you have persistent plumbing issues along with signs of subsidence, it’s crucial to get professional advice.

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Related Reading: Cracks in Walls: When You Should Be Concerned

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Building Insurance for Subsidence: How can Frontier Help?

The buildings insurance part of your home insurance policy usually covers subsidence damage to the house itself, however those properties with a history of subsidence can have exclusions against further issues. Most insurers in the market will not cover your home for buildings insurance if there is a history of subsidence to your property.

What Sets Frontier Apart from The Market?

At Frontier, providing the property has a Certificate of Structural Adequacy, we can provide previous subsidence insurance cover as standard. And you get to choose the excess that applies rather than having one imposed on you.

The average market excess for subsidence is £1000 when you claim for a subsidence event. At Frontier, we see things differently, we therefore do not charge an additional subsidence excess. Always check the Ts and Cs in your insurance policy to understand how you will be charged in the event of a claim.

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