Subsidence Coverage: What Every UK Homeowner Should Know

If you’ve ever seen a crack grow in a wall or noticed a floor sinking, you’ve probably wondered whether your insurance will step in. The short answer: it depends on your subsidence coverage. This kind of cover protects you when the ground beneath a building shifts, causing damage to foundations, walls, and roofs – exactly the kind of issue that can ruin a conservatory or garden room.

Most standard home policies exclude subsidence because it’s considered a “ground‑movement” risk. That’s why you need to add a specific endorsement or buy a separate policy that mentions subsidence outright. Without it, you could be left paying thousands for repairs that a good insurer would normally handle.

Why Subsidence Matters for Your Conservatory

Conservatories sit on lightweight frames and large glass panels, making them particularly vulnerable to ground movement. Even a small shift can throw the structure out of square, leading to cracked glazing, warped roofing, and exposed joints. The posts in our tag page, like the guides on foundation crack size and building settlement, show how quickly a tiny movement can become a big problem.

When a conservatory’s base settles unevenly, you’ll notice doors that won’t close, uneven flooring, or water pooling around the perimeter. Those signs often appear before the main structure shows obvious damage, giving you a chance to act – but only if you have the right insurance cover.

How to Get the Right Coverage

First, check your existing policy for a “subsidence clause.” If it’s missing, ask your insurer about adding a subsidence endorsement. The cost is usually a small increase – often just a few pounds a month – but it can save you from a huge out‑of‑pocket bill.

Second, compare quotes from at least three providers. Look for policies that cover:

• Foundation repair and replacement of damaged structural elements.
• Repair of external finishes, such as cladding, brickwork, and render.
• Removal and reinstatement of affected conservatory components.

Third, keep documentation of any ground‑movement investigations. A professional survey that records soil condition, drainage, and previous subsidence incidents strengthens any claim you might make.

Finally, maintain your property. Good drainage, proper gutter clearance, and regular inspection of footings reduce the chance of subsidence developing in the first place. Small steps now can keep your insurance premiums lower and your home safer.

In short, subsidence coverage is a simple add‑on that protects a big part of your investment – especially if you’ve added a conservatory or garden room. Review your policy today, ask the right questions, and keep an eye on your foundation. It’s the easiest way to avoid nasty surprises down the road.