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Drought subsidence warning

Tuesday, 23 May 2006 12:00 AM

Insurers are warning homeowners that drought conditions in the UK are likely to lead to increased cases of subsidence.

According to the Environment Agency, the UK is currently experiencing its driest spell since 1976, notwithstanding the rain of the last few weeks.

Dry weather affects the foundations of buildings and leads to increases in subsidence, particularly those built on clay soil.

Richard Mason from website insuresupermarket.com said: "Just because you live an in an area of drought doesn't necessarily mean your home will be affected. However, there will be a higher risk of it."

Thirteen million households, largely in the south-east, are currently subject to restrictions on their water uses - and it is in these areas that the problem could be more acute.

"If you see any cracks developing, it is best to contact your insurance company sooner rather than later," Mr Mason said.

"All properties experience some natural movement cracks so they shouldn't be a cause for extreme concern."

Should you need to contact your insurance company, it is likely that they will want to assess the development of cracks over time, so prepare to be patient.

Typically, the sort of action they will take include quick fixes such as underpinning, whereby concrete is poured into the foundations of your property to shore it up.

"If you do live in an area of drought make sure you check your building insurance is up to date," Mr Mason added.

"If you're insured and the worst does happen, you'll be ok and covered at the best possible premium. Without insurance it will be very costly to repair and could be much harder to obtain insurance."

Water restrictions have currently been imposed by the following companies:

  • South Water (in Sussex North, Sussex Coast, Sussex Hasting, Kent Thanet, Kent Medway and Isle of Wight areas).
  • South East Water
  • Mid Kent Water
  • Cholderton and District Water
  • Sutton and East Surrey Water
  • Thames Water
  • Three Valleys Water
  • Folkestone and Dover Water households

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