Subsidence caused by trees

robertp_2

i live in a bungalow and about 5 years ago had a significant problem (£18k claim) with subsidence. On investigation this was caused by trees planted too close to the house and, in particular, one fir tree in my neighbours garden. About 8 trees were removed in all and there have been no further problems and am advised by the local tree surgeon no further risk

My problem is am am now paying a high insurance premium and can't go anywhere else as my case is immediately rejected due to previous subsidence problems. However the problem is not related to the ground the property is built on and the problem has been removed for ever.

I'm looking for an insurer who will consider my case on merit as there is no more risk then any other property. Can anybody help?

FTB2009

Hi,

Unfortunately you've not got much choice. I work for a large insurer and subsidence is a very expensive problem. Insurers don't like properties with previous subsidence damage. It can take years for subsidence to cause problems at a property and 5 years is a fairly short time to see if removing the trees has put a stop to any further problems - (sometimes removing the trees can make things worse).

You may be able to get another insurer to insure you excluding subsidence but I STRONGLY advise against this. You have found out how expensives subsidence claims are plus your mortgage company won't like it if this is excluded.

I know it's unfortunate your paying a high premium but at least you have insurance which will pay out in case of any further problems.