Subsidence Claims 'Could Increase'

The driest period in the UK for 81 years has prompted home insurance provider M&S Money to urge people to be on the look-out for structural subsidence at their properties. 

Average rainfall for the first six months of the year was recorded as 356.8mm, according to the Met Office, which said this was the lowest since 1929's record of 275.7mm. 

Claims connected to building subsidence often increase during drier weather: thirsty trees and shrubs use water from the shrinking clay soil, creating a more unstable base for buildings. 

Because of the last three years' relatively wet summers, subsidence levels have been low, according to claims data. 

M&S head of general insurance Andrew Ferguson said: "The outlook for this summer is currently predicted to be 27% drier than average, so it looks like we have the conditions for subsidence losses. 

"Repairing the damage caused by subsidence can cost of thousands of pounds, so it's vital to know the early signs to look out for."