Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Category:
Home Improvements
In light of the fact that the Met Office has predicted a warmer than average summer, and rainfall at virtually average or below, moneysupermarket.com is advising homeowners to ensure that they are adequately insured for subsidence.
Head of home insurance at the price comparison site, Steve Sweeney, commented: "We welcome warm weather with open arms, but unfortunately bouts of heat could lead to subsidence. The hot weather can cause the ground beneath a property to dry out and become unstable, and homes with trees nearby are more at risk of subsidence as roots grow in search of water during dry spells, taking moisture from the soil.
"The most common sign of subsidence is cracks appearing in the wall, especially around the door and window frames. However, homeowners or buyers should only be alarmed when cracks are wider than a thumb as some cracking will occur naturally in buildings; in those cases though they should immediately alert their insurer to assess the situation. I urge homeowners to be as honest as possible and fully update their insurer if there are any signs of subsidence around their home.”
When it comes to subsidence, moneysupermarket has offered some top tips regarding what to look out for and the necessary actions required. Firstly, be prepared for the fact that most insurance companies will want to regularly inspect the state of cracks as time goes by. Secondly, be aware that damaged or leaking drains should be repaired to avoid weakening the ground under foundations, and trees within close proximity of the property should be frequently cut back. Thirdly, homeowners could consider getting in touch with a reputable building firm to underpin the property, which would mean having concrete poured into the foundations to strengthen the structure. Fourthly, retain the receipts and certificates from any such work. Finally, when considering the purchase of a house, be vigilant where subsidence is concerned. It is possible to utilise The Land Registry to establish whether or not local houses have been affected.
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Homeowners who are looking to make improvements to their homes, whether this be to strengthen foundations or to make vital space for a growing family, could consider a secured loan to make the improvements. One of many options to fund home improvements, secured loans could help fund projects such as loft conversions which might provide a playroom for children or a third floor guest suite for visiting friends and family. With the summer upon us, a conservatory might be a much desired addition to homes. As well as
extending upward and outward, some might consider extending downwards by using a secured loan to carry out a basement conversion.
