Heatwave Britain: Time to Check Your Home For Subsidence

The word from Schofield Insurance for you as the summer weather continues, at least in the South of England;

Holiday home owners are being urged to carry out post heatwave “health checks” after new research highlighted growing awareness gaps around subsidence risks linked to extreme summer temperatures.

A survey of 1,000 UK holiday homeowners by holiday home insurance specialists Schofield Insurance found that 43% were unaware that extreme heat could increase the risk of subsidence, while 38% said they would not know how to recognise early warning signs such as new cracks or doors and windows becoming difficult to open following a period of hot weather.

The findings come as insurance experts warn that prolonged heat can cause clay soils to dry out and shrink, leading to ground movement beneath properties. This can result in structural stress, cracking and potential long term damage if not identified early.

The research also suggests many holiday homeowners may not be carrying out regular inspections after extreme weather, meaning early signs of subsidence related movement could go unnoticed.

Further findings from the survey revealed:

• 46% of holiday homeowners said they have never checked their property for cracks or structural changes after a heatwave

• 41% would not know how to identify early signs of subsidence, including new or widening cracks and sticking doors or windows

• 34% leave their holiday home empty for more than a week during the summer months, meaning potential issues could remain undetected

• 29% have experienced problems with their holiday property following periods of hot weather, including cracking, warped doors and movement in external areas

• 22% rely on guests to report problems rather than carrying out regular inspections themselves

While warmer weather can provide a welcome boost for holiday lets and second homes, prolonged heat can place additional pressure on properties. Some subsidence related issues may not become visible until temperatures begin to fall and ground conditions change.

Subsidence is a particular concern following periods of extreme heat, especially for properties built on clay soil. As the ground dries out, it can shrink and shift, placing stress on foundations and leading to visible structural changes such as cracks in walls, brickwork and around door and window frames.

Phil Schofield, from Schofield Insurance commented:
“Many holiday homeowners understand the importance of protecting their properties from risks such as storms, flooding and winter weather, but there is still less awareness around how extreme heat can affect a property. Subsidence is a particular concern following prolonged periods of hot weather, as dry conditions can cause the ground beneath a property to shrink and move, potentially leading to cracks and structural damage.

“The survey findings show that 43% of holiday homeowners were unaware that heatwaves could increase the risk of subsidence, highlighting the importance of understanding the warning signs and carrying out regular checks.

“Small changes such as new cracks appearing, doors or windows becoming difficult to open, or movement around a property should not be ignored. Spotting potential issues early can help owners address problems before they become more serious and ensure they have the right protection in place.”

Schofield Insurance recommends holiday homeowners carry out the following checks after periods of extreme heat:

• Look for new cracks or changes to existing cracks around external walls, brickwork, windows and doors

• Check whether doors or windows have started sticking or becoming difficult to open

• Inspect external walls, foundations and surrounding ground for signs of movement or drying soil

• Check roofs, sealants and external surfaces for signs of heat related stress or movement

• Arrange regular inspections if the property is left empty for long periods

With summer weather becoming increasingly unpredictable, holiday homeowners are being reminded that protecting a property is not only about preparing for colder months. Extreme heat can create hidden structural risks, particularly subsidence, making regular checks an important part of responsible holiday home ownership.