Subsidence Damage Restoration Service
Causes of Subsidence Damage
Subsidence most typically occurs when clay soil beneath a building’s foundations dries out and shrinks. This usually happens in hot, dry weather and is often caused by the roots of surrounding trees absorbing moisture from the earth. The number two reason is leaking underground pipes, which can wash away or loosen the earth around the foundations, that causes the house to have structural integrity failure.
A more rare form of ground movement is heave. This takes place when soil swells, typically because of high moisture levels, often after trees have been removed that let the clay rehydrate and expand. And in many cases, damage from subsidence can be fixed without major foundation work, if, of course, the underlying problem (like a leaking pipe or a troublesome tree) has been mitigated. Only in special cases, where the root cause cannot be resolved, a foundation work is required.
How Bright Symphony Can Help
Our professional teams are well trained on rectifying cracks and misaligned drains and managing tree/roots that may be causing problems, while underpinning is a great way to prevent further subsidence. We also offer full range of subsidence damage repair and restoration services.
Signs of Subsidence Damage
Typical signs of subsidence damage are raked diagonal cracks in walls and ceilings; twisted door and window frames (sometimes wider at the top than the bottom); and bowed or sloping walls. You can detect if a property is suffering from subsidence, our team of expert subsidence surveyors can perform a full structural investigation of a property, and recommend the best way to stabilise the structure and repair and weaken brickwork or concrete.
Subsidence Damage Restoration
Steps to Take After a Subsidence Damage
Assess and Document the Damage
Check affected areas, take photos/videos, and make detailed notes of all damage. This information is essential for claims with the insurance and repair planning.
Contact Your Home Insurance Provider
Inform your insurer as soon as possible about the damages. Documentation must be provided and must follow their claims filing instruction, or coverage with be denied.
Get a Professional Assessment
Bring in a licensed contractor or specialist to assess structural, electrical or water or other damage. Their report confirms repairs are made properly and covers insurance claims.
Monitor for Changes
Keep an eye out for worsening dame such as cracks, leaks or mold. Intervention sooner stops the damage from expanding and even potentially needing further specialist help.
Replicate the Damage
Identify the root causes that created the damage (backed up pipes, leak, etc). Neglecting it can result in ongoing damage and greater costs.
Proceed with Repairs and Keep Records
Hire qualified contractors for repairs. Keep receipts, contracts, and before-and-after pictures for insurance, warranties, and reference down the line.
FAQ about Subsidence Damage Restoration Services
What is subsidence and how does it damage property?
Subsidence is the slow sinking or downward settling of the ground that can cause the foundation of a building to shift or crack. This can cause structural damage including cracked walls, sloped floors, and unaligned doors or windows.
How can I tell if my property has been affected by subsidence?
A good way to determine if your property has been affected by subsidence is to look for signs of cracks.
Common signs of subsidence are large cracks in walls (especially around doors and windows), doors and windows that stick or will not close properly, and visible sinking in the property’s foundation. Generally speaking, subsidence will require a professional assessment to confirm.
What is the process for subsidence damage restoration?
Restoration normally involves stabilising the ground (e.g. underpinning), repairing structural damage, fixing cosmetic problems such as cracks and plasterwork, and, in some cases, resolving drainage or soil moisture issues that led to the subsidence.
Is subsidence damage covered by home insurance?
Some home insurance policies cover subsidence and its repairs, but this varies according to the policy and the cause of the damage. Reviewing your policy and consulting your insurer can help clarify your coverage.
How long does subsidence property restoration take?
The time frame differs based on the extent of the damage. Minor repairs might take a few weeks, while more extensive restoration, including underpinning and structural work, could take several months. There may also need be monitoring periods to confirm that the motion has ceased.