CET SAFEHOUSE sees 40% growth in subsidence investigations

Monday, 02 November 2009 00:00

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CET SAFEHOUSE is the UK’s leading subsidence investigation companies and has witnessed an increase in subsidence related investigations by 40% versus the same period in 2008. As a consequence of the prolonged dry weather, particularly on the South of England, the CET SAFEHOUSE subsidence division is work flat out to provide data as to the cause of suspected incidents of subsidence and assist in the subsequent remedy.

There are many causes of subsidence but commonly, after such dry spells, subsidence occurs when clay based soils shrink and subsequently swells. Clay is a natural soil created in historic rivers by the deposition of tiny rock particles. Being highly impermeable to the passage of water, clays will resist the tendency to dry out and will normally maintain a consistent moisture content over many decades.

However, if a clay dries out it can shrink. Upon rewetting it expands. This results in seasonal shrinkage and swelling of the soil, which can cause cracking of buildings located in the area. This ground movement can also effect the property’s drainage systems which can compound the subsidence problems.

Having witnessed the recent comparative increase in subsidence related investigation CET SAFEHOUSE have implemented its seasonal surge plan to provide its full range of subsidence services to insured home owners across the UK.