Homeowners warned about subsidence dangers

by Richard Kilner

Story link: Homeowners warned about subsidence dangers

Sainsbury’s Insurance has advised homeowners contemplating planting trees in their gardens to be on their guard against the potential risks of subsidence.

The warning comes as an estimated 9.7m homeowners consider planting trees in their gardens over the course of 2008.

The insurer has revealed that 12% of the claims it receives made against subsidence involve trees and other plants.

Neil Laird, Sainsbury’s Home Insurance manager, has stated that although trees are good for the environment and can bolster a property’s worth, the decision to plant them must be carefully considered.

The firm advises homeowners to plant trees 9 feet or further from their house, or other buildings, and to frequently check drains to make sure they are free of blockages.