Subsidence is a serious issue that can affect the stability and safety of buildings. It occurs when the foundation of a property moves downward due to a loss of support beneath it. This type of structural damage can lead to significant cracks, foundation issues, and other severe complications if left untreated.
At Jaram Associates, we specialise in diagnosing and resolving subsidence-related problems. With extensive experience in dealing with subsidence issues, we provide comprehensive assessments and effective remediation solutions for homeowners and businesses alike.
Subsidence is defined by the Institute of Structural Engineers (1994) as “the downward movement of a building’s foundation due to loss of support of the ground beneath it.” According to the Financial Ombudsman Service, it is described as "the downward movement of the site on which a building stands." This process can be caused by various factors, including soil movement, water ingress, or changes in the underlying ground conditions.
For more information on subsidence, you can visit the Subsidence Forum to explore detailed guidance.
Subsidence can lead to a range of visible and structural issues in a property. Some common signs of subsidence include:
One of the most noticeable signs of subsidence is cracking in the structure. Cracks caused by subsidence typically appear in several areas, including:
Diagonal Tapered Cracks:
Vertical and Horizontal Cracks:
Cracking in External walls
At Jaram Associates, we offer a range of expert services designed to assess and remediate subsidence issues:
Our specialists will conduct a detailed visual inspection to identify visible signs of subsidence, such as cracks, shifts in structure, or other telltale symptoms. This step provides a preliminary assessment of the issue and helps determine the severity of the problem.
From an initial assessment, we can either undertake or coordinate further investigations such as:
Once a diagnosis is made, we can prepare a customised remediation schedule to either stabilise the property and prevent further subsidence or repairs following mitigation works. This could involve underpinning the foundations, improving drainage systems, or other techniques to restore the building's stability. We work with contractors who specialise in this type of work and who are familiar with structural repairs.
At Jaram Associates, we are proud to be members of the Subsidence Forum, which is an industry body providing guidance on best practices for subsidence diagnosis and remediation.
With years of experience in the field, we provide comprehensive support to property owners, whether you need an initial inspection or full-scale remediation. Our goal is to restore the safety and integrity of your property, ensuring peace of mind for years to come.
What is the difference between subsidence and settlement?
Subsidence occurs basically due to the loss of support beneath the foundation due to an external factor, whereas settlement is caused by the weight of the building compacting the ground. Settlement is typically a design failure, while subsidence is a ground failure.
Signs of subsidence include cracks in walls and floors, sloping or uneven floors, and doors or windows that no longer open or close properly. If you notice any of these issues, it’s important to have your property inspected by a subsidence specialist
Yes, subsidence can be remedied. The appropriate solution depends on the cause and extent of the subsidence. Common remediation methods include underpinning the foundation, improving drainage systems, and stabilising the soil beneath the property.
Subsidence is often covered by home insurance policies, but it’s essential to check your policy’s terms and conditions. In many cases, insurers will only cover the cost of repairs if the cause of the subsidence is confirmed, and the damage is within the policy's limits. Settlement is not covered by insurance, which is why it is important to know the difference.
If you suspect that your property may be affected by subsidence or if you’ve noticed any of the warning signs, contact Jaram Associates today. We can provide a thorough assessment and recommend the best course of action to address the issue effectively.
Jaram Associates is an RICS registered firm of Chartered Building Surveyors formed in 2014
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Jaram Associates
5 Valley Drive
Kirkella
East Yorkshire
HU10 7PG
Tel: 01482 659522
Contact Us
Jaram Associates
Mobile: 07950 415223
Tel: 01482 659522
douglas@jaramassociates.co.uk
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