Summer 2026 in the UK has felt like one prolonged heatwave, with little rain or respite from the high temperatures. Across the country, lawns are turning varied shades of yellow or brown, and the effects of the persistent dry weather are becoming increasingly visible. While we may be feeling the impact of the heat ourselves, our homes can also bear the brunt of prolonged hot and dry conditions.
One growing concern for homeowners is the increased risk of subsidence. When soil beneath a property dries out, particularly in areas with clay-rich ground, it can shrink and cause foundations to move. This can place stress on the structure, potentially leading to cracks, uneven floors and doors or windows becoming difficult to open.
Not every crack is a sign of subsidence, and there can be many reasons why they appear. However, new or worsening damage following an extended period of hot, dry weather is worth paying attention to and, where necessary, having professionally assessed.
Why does heat increase the risk of subsidence?
Prolonged heat and a lack of rainfall can remove moisture from the soil, causing it to shrink (read more on soil shrinkage). Clay-rich soils are particularly susceptible, making parts of London, the South East and the Midlands more exposed to ground movement.
Vegetation can also contribute. Large trees and shrubs draw significant amounts of water from the surrounding soil, increasing the potential for drying around a property’s foundations.
The UK’s ageing housing stock can add to the challenge, with many properties built when prolonged periods of extreme heat were less prominent in risk assessments and modern approaches to climate resilience had not yet been developed. The age and construction of a property can influence how it responds to ground movement, with older properties potentially more vulnerable to changes in soil moisture and ground stability.
Recognising the warning signs
There are several signs that could indicate a property is experiencing movement. New or widening cracks, particularly diagonal cracks around windows and doors, should be monitored. Other potential indicators include doors or windows that suddenly stick, noticeably uneven floors, or gaps appearing between an extension, conservatory or porch and the main building.
Not every crack is evidence of subsidence. However, significant or progressive changes, particularly following prolonged dry weather, should be assessed by an appropriate professional.
How can you protect your home?
There are some simple steps homeowners can take to reduce potential risks. Keeping large trees and shrubs appropriately managed can help limit excessive moisture loss from the soil. It is also important to maintain drainage systems and address leaking underground pipes promptly, as changes in soil moisture can contribute to ground movement.
Your home insurance can also provide important protection if subsidence does occur. Check your policy to understand what is covered, as well as any excess you may need to pay if you make a claim. If you notice signs of possible subsidence, contact your insurer as soon as possible rather than waiting for the damage to worsen.
It is also worth checking whether previous subsidence at your property could affect your cover. If you are buying a home, ask about its history and consider getting appropriate professional surveys before committing to the purchase.
What does this mean for homeowners?
Hotter, drier summers could make subsidence a more significant consideration for homeowners, particularly in areas with shrinkable clay soils.
By keeping an eye on changes to your property, maintaining trees and drainage, and understanding your insurance cover, you can be better prepared to identify potential problems early and take action if subsidence becomes a concern.