The huge amounts of new affordable homes suggested by the government to meet housing needs has in many places ground to a halt due to the recession. Whilst campaigners who are fighting to stop the building of homes on known flood plains and areas where subsidence is more probable continue to be battle on in different parts of the country.
If you own a house which is built on an area which is more susceptible to subsidence you may find you have to pay higher insurance premiums. As with any other type of insurance there are some positive steps which you can take to ensure your home remains standing and fully covered by your insurance policy.
Most buildings insurance does provide cover for both flooding and subsidence, as long as any repairs are carried out successfully and by legitimate tradesmen/women. Taking a proactive approach is the most effective way of reducing the risks of any major damage and may be included in the schedule of your insurance policy.
Subsidence:
* You must contact your insurer as soon as you suspect that your house is subsiding. Follow their instructions to ensure you do not breach the terms and conditions of your policy. Insurance companies will act quickly as the sooner any signs of subsidence are identified the less expensive it will be to put right.
* Be careful where you plant trees as many species have roots which may undermine your house’s foundation over time.
If you move into a house which has a large mature tree already in place consult a specialist before making the decision to take it down, as the established roots may have already worked their way into the foundations, disturbing them may cause more harm to your home.
* Keep trees and shrubs pruned to a suitable height as this can lessen the risk of subsidence occurring.
* Keep all gutters free from debris and blocked drains cleared immediately.
*You should always have a full structural assessment carried out by a professional before you buy a home.
Flood:
* Obviously keep an eye on the weather forecast and keep your eye on water levels if your home has a riverside location.
* If water levels continue to rise and more heavy rain is forecast start to move as many of your belongings as possible upstairs, this includes your furniture if you are able to safely do so, as well as audio equipment and TV.
* Use sand bags across entrances if you can, never refuse to have sandbags placed by the local authorities or emergency services as this may invalidate your insurance.
* Turn off gas and electricity if possible.
* Take advice from the emergency services with regards to evacuation of your home.
Compare house insurance quotes from a number of insurers to ensure you have adequate cover at the most competitive rates. If you are in any doubt as to the amount and type of insurance cover they are offering make a phone call and ask them directly and above all make sure you read the terms, conditions, restrictions and the procedures of how to make a claim.
Swinton offer very competitive insurance, as such it is well worth inluding them when you Compare House Insurance quotes