If you’re experiencing issues with your property’s foundation, you’re not alone
Many Lewisham residents face subsidence problems due to various factors. Our expert team is here to help you navigate the complexities of subsidence claims, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
Whether you’re dealing with cracks in your walls, doors that won’t close, or other signs of subsidence, we have the experience and knowledge to assist you every step of the way.
Signs to Look Out For
Identifying subsidence early can save you from extensive damage and costly repairs. Here are some common signs of subsidence to watch for:
- Cracks in walls: Look for diagonal cracks that are wider at the top than the bottom, especially around doors and windows.
- Sticking doors and windows: If your doors and windows become difficult to open or close, it may be due to the shifting of your property’s foundations.
- Sloping floors: Uneven or sloping floors can indicate that the ground beneath your home is moving.
- Gaps between walls and ceilings or floors: Noticeable gaps can be a red flag for subsidence.
- Rippling wallpaper: Wallpaper that isn’t caused by dampness can signal that your walls are shifting.
At Subsidence Claims, we understand the stress and disruption subsidence can cause. Our dedicated team is committed to providing Lewisham residents with expert guidance and support, helping you secure the compensation you need to repair and protect your home.
Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step towards resolving your subsidence issues.
What is Subsidence and What Can Cause It in Lewisham?
Subsidence is the downward movement of the ground supporting a building, leading to structural damage. It occurs when the soil beneath your property loses its ability to support the structure.
In Lewisham, several factors can contribute to subsidence:
- Soil Type: Lewisham has areas with clay soil, which is prone to shrinking and swelling based on moisture levels. During dry periods, clay soil can contract, causing the ground to sink.
- Tree Roots: Trees and shrubs near your property can extract significant amounts of water from the soil, exacerbating shrinkage in clay soils.
- Leaking Drains or Water Mains: Persistent leaks can wash away or soften the soil beneath your property, undermining its stability.
- Historical Mining Activity: Some parts of Lewisham might be affected by historical mining, leading to unstable ground.
How a Subsidence Claim Works for Lewisham Residents
If you suspect subsidence, it’s crucial to act quickly. Here’s how the subsidence claim process works for Lewisham residents:
- Initial Assessment: Contact us to schedule a thorough inspection of your property. Our experts will assess the extent of the damage and determine if subsidence is the cause.
- Documentation: We will help you gather all necessary documentation, including photos of the damage, historical data about your property, and any relevant reports.
- Claim Submission: Our team will guide you through the process of submitting a subsidence claim to your insurance company, ensuring all paperwork is correctly completed.
- Professional Evaluation: The insurance company will likely send a surveyor to assess the damage. We will liaise with them to provide additional evidence and support your claim.
- Repair Plan: Once the claim is approved, we will work with structural engineers and builders to develop a comprehensive repair plan to stabilize and restore your property.
- Follow-up: After repairs, we will ensure all work meets the required standards and help you with any further claims if necessary.
Lewisham case studies that speak volumes
Our panel solicitors have a wealth of experience in dealing with subsidence claims, and their success stories highlight the importance of expert legal support.
A Battle of Stability
Imagine submitting a claim only for the insurer to drag their feet for six years, all while insisting your property merely needs a fresh coat of paint. This was the reality for one homeowner who, upon refusal to settle for less, partnered with our panel solicitors.
Through legal action and undeniable expert evidence, the homeowner saw justice as the insurer was compelled to pay over £200,000 for necessary demolition and reconstruction.
Root Barrier Resistance
Another homeowner faced acknowledgment of their subsidence issue by their insurer but was met with a cost-cutting solution—a root barrier.
Expert advice revealed the true necessity of underpinning, a stance the insurer refused to accept until legal proceedings forced their hand, resulting in a payout exceeding £300,000.
Contact us now for expert assistance!
Experiencing subsidence issues at home? Don’t wait, let us handle your insurance claim hassle-free.