Homeowners get summer subsidence warning

By Marianne Straker, Wed 17 Jun 2009 - Published in Home Insurance

The hot summer that many forecasters are predicting could increase the risk of people's homes subsiding, it has been claimed.

According to consumer group Moneysupermarket.com, homeowners should ensure they have adequate insurance against subsidence throughout the summer.

Steve Sweeney, head of home insurance at the group, commented that hot weather can cause the ground beneath a property to dry out and become unstable, while properties built close to trees are at greater risk as roots tend to grow out in search of water during warm weather.

"We welcome warm weather with open arms, but unfortunately bouts of heat could lead to subsidence. I urge homeowners to be as honest as possible and fully update their insurer if there are any signs of subsidence around their home," he added.

Last week, studies carried out by the Association of British Insurers indicated 22 per cent of people have cancelled or not renewed their home contents insurance policies in the last year.

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