Subsidence-related insurance claims reached £153 million in the first half of 2025, as the Association of British Insurers (ABI) reports households across the UK felt the impact of warm and sunny weather. Insurers supported nearly 9,000 households in recovering from subsidence damage during this period, with the average payout per claim standing at £17,264.
Subsidence occurs when ground beneath a building sinks, pulling the property's foundations down with it. This typically happens when soil loses moisture and contracts during prolonged dry spells, or when trees and shrubs draw water from the ground.
The figures come as amber heat health warnings have been issued across large areas of England, with temperatures expected to soar and parts of the UK predicted to be hotter than Bali. This follows a dry spring that has raised concerns about wildfire risks and impacts on farmers.
Climate change driving increased risks
Louise Clark, manager of general insurance policy at the ABI, said climate change is significantly increasing subsidence risks in the UK. "Climate change is significantly increasing the risk of subsidence in the UK, particularly in areas with clay-rich soils that sink and swell in response to changing moisture levels caused by hot temperatures," Clark explained.
The ABI advises homeowners can reduce risks by managing nearby trees and shrubs they own, and ensuring gutters, pipes and plumbing are well maintained to avoid leaks. Clark emphasized that if homeowners suspect subsidence damage, they should contact their insurer immediately as it's exactly what home insurance covers.
Warning signs for homeowners
The ABI highlights that not every crack signals a serious issue, but certain characteristics require attention. Cracks more than three millimetres wide - roughly the depth of a £1 coin - that are diagonal and wider at the top than bottom, and visible both inside and outside the property, may need investigation.
Additional warning signs include doors and windows sticking without obvious cause, and wallpaper that starts to rip or crinkle in areas not affected by damp. The ABI notes that subsidence cracks often appear very suddenly rather than gradually, and recommends seeking professional advice and speaking to insurers when in doubt.
Sources used: "ABI", "PA Media" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
