Direct Line gives homeowners advice on subsidence insurance
Tuesday, 08 November 2011 01:58
Homeowners have been advised to be vigilant when it comes to checking their property for subsidence after Direct Line revealed that some areas of the UK are more prone to it than others.
The insurer analysed its claims data for Britain and discovered that people in the London postcodes N4, NW5 and W10 were the most likely to have to claim on their home insurance because of this problem.
It warned that the capital and the south-east will have more cases of subsidence because the soil contains clay, which is more reactive to moisture and tends to expand or contract depending on the weather conditions.
Direct Line suggested keeping an eye open for cracks in outside brickwork, which will usually be diagonal and larger at the top than at the bottom.
It also warned against planting inappropriate trees too close to housing or extension foundations, as their roots can suck up water and lead to the soil around the building shifting.
Rob Warner from Direct Line home insurance said: "Do not panic if you suspect you have subsidence. You should act quickly by calling your insurer immediately."
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