Subsidence Damage Claims
Subsidence is the downward movement of the site on which a building stands, where the soil beneath the building's foundations becomes unstable. The movement is not caused by the weight of the building.
In Ireland, subsidence is generally dealt with under the "escape of water" peril on your insurance policy as we do not have the atmospheric conditions which cause commonly shifts in clay or soil e.g. earthquakes. However, if your drains or sewers are cracked or leaking, this can lead to the movement of your foundations. The resultant damage due to the leaking drains or sewers, which might involve the underpinning of your home is covered.
Subsidence cases are often complex and involve expert evidence and technical data. However, we have significant experience in dealing with these types of claims and can help you to reach a satisfactory outcome. Our objective is to reduce the time and pressure associated with navigating through these types of claims alone and ultimately to maximise your settlement amount.
If you notice any of the following in your home then you should contact us as these may indicate the first signs of subsidence:
- New cracks in your walls that are more than 3mm wide, normally wider at the top;
- Cracks forming around weak spots in your home (for example, around doors and windows);
- Doors and windows start to stick. This could be due to the movement of the building;
- If you have an extension, cracks appear where the extension meets the main part of your house. This could indicate that the extension is ‘pulling away’ from the main building due to foundation movement caused by leaking drains; or
- Drains are backing up during heavy rain, this may be because the drain is cracked or collapsed.
