Structural building defects in relation to insurance claims

Abstract

Subsidence (heave and landslip) was added as a peril to domestic insurance policies during the 1970s. Since then Insurance companies have paid out billions of pounds in claims, even though 50–60% of all claims made are declined. This article looks at the causes of cracking in domestic properties including those not caused by subsidence, explores the difference between subsidence and settlement and considers the causes including the impact of trees and drains.