subsidence....

[inquisitivet]

hiya, think ive got a bit of a subsidence problem. in fact i am sure. I had an extension built a few years ago and already had cracks inside the house. now they are inside and outside and also on existing building and extension. building regs passed all work but what the hell do i do now................ i know buildersmate will come up with some good answers as he always does.... much appreciated as always,,,,,all advice welcome please... thanks in advance... before house falls down around me........x

[paddywak]

Are you in an old mining area? if so you MAY able to claim some form of compensation. I think this is still the cuurent site
http://www.coal.gov.uk/services/publicsafety/s ubsidence_claims.cfm

[buildersmate]

One hopes that you have Buildings Insurance? This is precisely one of the reasons such cover is necessary. They will (normally)pay to get it sorted apart from the first �500. The costs of underpinning, if required, typically run to several thousands.

If not, you are probably best seeking the advice of a structural engineer directly yourself - which unfortunately won't be free but won't cost too much (couple of hundred).
If the gaps are getting wider, you really need to do this.

[inquisitivet]

hiya - sorry answer a bit late! No def not in a mining area but thanks for the info on that. handy to know!
thanks buildersmate - i knew you would know what to do.
I wil get in touch with my insurers and get them to have a look - yep def got building insurance.. i will get on to this before house falls down !!

many thanks to both of you.
x