With nearly one third of UK properties sitting above coalfields, subsidence resulting from past mining activity can be a cause for concern. Ground movement resulting from unstable mines and tunnels can lead to insecure foundations, resulting in subsidence and costly repairs. With two-thirds of mines and mine entries not documented, how can property buyers and owners protect themselves?
Our article in the Yorkshire Post reveals how prevalent disused mines are and our very own Matthew Baker discusses the potentially huge costs associated with remedial work. At worst, demolition may even be required – 2 years ago, 18 houses were condemned and knocked down on a new-build estate. It’s not all bad news though; the article discusses how homeowners may be able to claim compensation for subsidence from the UK Coal Authority, and we describe how buyers can run checks to find out if their potential property purchase is at risk.
To find out if your house is in a coal-mining area, you can carry out a postcode search on the UK Coal Authority website. If your home is in a mining zone, you can obtain a report from the Coal Authority or Terrafirma that will give you detailed information on the level of risk.
Full building surveys and HomeBuyer reports will tell you if your home, or the property that you are looking to buy, might be affected by subsidence. If the subsidence is due to mining, you can claim for the damage from the UK’s Coal Authority. The survey report can then be used as a basis for the claim and, if successful, the surveyor’s fees can usually also be recovered.
For more information contact us or check out our article: https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/property/homes-gardens/is-your-home-at-risk-from-mining-subsidence/
