What does minor subsidence look like? 

The problem with minor subsidence is that it gradually develops over time and so the signs may not be immediately obvious. Initially, homeowners may notice small cosmetic issues that seem harmless but could hint at potential ground movement beneath the house.  

Early signs of minor subsidence 

How can you tell if your home is experiencing minor subsidence? Here’s a list of some of the most common indicators:  

• Small wall cracks, typically diagonal in appearance

• Cracks that are typically less than 3mm wide

• Cracks around doors or windows

• Doors or windows that stick slightly when opening or closing

• Slight rippling in the wallpaper

• Minor gaps between walls and skirting boards

It’s important to note that these signs can also indicate normal settling of the house or seasonal/temperature changes, particularly in new or recently refurbished homes. If they worsen over time, they may need further investigation. 

What is classed as minor subsidence?  

Subsidence is often classified by the size of cracks, the extent of movement, and whether the issue is progressive or not. For example, cracks under 3mm wide that don’t expand or change over time are considered “minor”. That means the property isn’t at immediate risk. It differs from severe subsidence which is active and ongoing. 

What causes minor subsidence? 

Minor subsidence can be caused by a variety of factors including:

• Seasonal soil shrinkage and expansion (especially in clay-rich soils which swell during periods of prolonged heavy rain and shrink in hot, dry weather).

• Roots of nearby trees and large shrubs drawing excessive amounts of moisture from the soil, causing it to move or shift.

• Minor drainage issues, such as leaky pipes.

• Natural settlement over time.

How is minor subsidence improved? 

Here’s some good news, minor subsidence is often manageable. The appropriate solution to use depends on the underlying cause, but some common approaches include: 

1. Keeping an eye on cracks. Small cracks are typically a cosmetic issue; however, you should monitor them by taking photos or measurements periodically to see if there are any changes.

2. Check for leaks or drainage issues. Water from leaking pipes can saturate the ground, resulting in weaker soils that are prone to movement. Addressing leaks can prevent further soil movement.

3. Managing large trees and shrubs. Tree roots in particular can draw out significant amounts of water from the soil, especially during the summer. If you have any trees nearby, it’s worth contacting a tree surgeon or arborist for advice.

4. Making cosmetic repairs when movement settles. If there’s no further movement, cracks can be refilled and painted.

Taking these steps is usually enough to resolve the issue. Minor subsidence doesn’t usually require more extensive work such as underpinning and is only considered if movement worsens or continues over time.  

Who should you contact?  

If you’re unsure whether you have minor subsidence in your property, it’s always a good idea to speak to a surveyor or a ground engineering specialist such as Mainmark for guidance. Homeowners can benefit from a free in-person or telephone inspection survey for peace of mind. The survey involves a visual inspection of your home, taking measurements to determine if there is any settlement or movement and researching your property’s history and if there have been any previous subsidence issues. 

Although minor subsidence can be an issue, spotting the signs early can make a significant difference to how quickly and cost-effectively the issue can be addressed. While small cracks might not seem urgent, monitoring them ensures that any underlying problems are addressed before they become more serious.