Subsidence claims are very technical in nature and are generally difficult to prove.
The policy wording usually includes lots of exclusions and there are many conditions which have to be met, before the claim is even considered.
Cracking in a building can have many causes, and a subsidence claim depends on showing what caused it. Unless you are a structural engineer or know how these claims are assessed, it makes sense to get professional advice early.
Below is a description of a subsidence claim we managed.
The property was a terraced 2 storey house in south Dublin built in the 1940s. The owner became very concerned as a number of large cracks started to appear on the external and internal face of external walls.
Subsidence Claim – Action Taken
We arrived at the property within 24 hrs from the call and carried out a lengthy survey. We found that the 3 external walls had structural cracking, the windows and doors were difficult to close and the flooring was not level. We also noticed that the benching on the pipework in the main drain had broken. The missing/damaged benching on the pipework was allowing the water to escape straight into the ground causing the ground load bearing capacity to be compromised.
ICS reported the claim to insurers and they appointed a technical loss adjuster to attend site. We met with the loss adjuster and demonstrated the loss by showing where the water was escaping.
We then appointed a structural engineer to carry out a full structural survey, organise trial holes etc to investigate the cause further. The insurance company appointed their own engineer to look after the insurers interests.
ICS worked closely with both structural engineers, whose reports set out the extent of the structural damage to the building.
Discussions with the insurance company loss adjuster followed on the scope of the reinstatement works.
Subsidence Claims – The Value of Expert Advice
As we are not just insurance claim managers but also qualified building surveyors, we knew from our experience where to look. Areas, materials and surrounding rooms that initially don’t seem to be damaged, are often affected down the line. Finding this hidden damage at the outset means it forms part of the claim, instead of coming to light after the claim is settled.
Our fee is on a no win no fee basis, and you can ring 01 870 9210 for a free initial consultation.