Insurance claims for subsidence have risen sharply following the hot, dry summer of 2018, according to the latest data from the Association of British Insurers (ABI).

Claims for subsidence relating to domestic properties rose by around 300% in volume and 350% in value, the highest quarterly rise since records began. 

Commercial claims rose by more than 200%.  While the value of many claims for subsidence is modest, those involving underpinning are often well in excess of £100,000.

London and South East England form the primary region for subsidence claims because of their clay-based soils, which are subject to volume change.  Trees intensify the problem by dewatering clay soils through their root systems.  Older properties, such as Victorian terraced houses, are particularly vulnerable due to their relatively shallow foundations.