Halifax: Subside risk with home insurance

Wednesday, 24 June 2009 12:00

Halifax is promoting its building insurance policy as homeowners are warned the hot summer could increase the risk of subsidence.

Homes in the south east are being earmarked as being at more risk, because of warmer temperatures and clay-based soil, the insurer said.

However, dry and warm conditions predicted throughout the UK over the summer months could mean subsidence is more likely for everyone.

Now Halifax is urging homeowners to take steps to reduce the risk to their property.

Neil Curling, senior structural claims manager for Halifax, said: "Signs a property might be suffering from subsidence include cracks in the walls, particularly if they start from the corners of the windows or doors."

Halifax said its unlimited buildings cover ensures homeowners are covered for rebuilding work that might need to be done as a result of subsidence.

The insurer has a team of specialist surveyors and engineers who handle subsidence claims and can provide information on how to avoid the problem.

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