Managing Subsidence As A Tree Owner

As a tree owner, it's important to understand what's going on underground, as well as up top.

Managing the size of a tree's crown, will ensure root growth is also managed – important when removing risk of subsidence to nearby property.

Pavement with a cracked curb and a tree with roots exposing through the soil, showing the impact of subsidence to property and urban areas.

Read on to understand the signs of subsidence and what to look out for around your home and property…

Close-up of a white textured ceiling with a long crack running across it, exposing black material and some drywall damage, showcasing how signs of subsidence may appear on a property.
A person attempting to open a white window with a lever handle which is jarred due to subsidence.

Cracks in Walls or Brickwork

Look for diagonal cracks, especially around doors and windows

Cracks wider than 3mm or those that get longer/wider over time can indicate movement

A wet tiled bathroom floor with water puddles showcasing the possibility of puddling if a property is impacted by subsidence from a trees root system growing too large nearby.

Sticking Doors or Windows

Doors or windows that suddenly start sticking or won’t close properly could mean the frames have warped due to foundation movement

Close-up of a torn yellow paper with black and white accents showing torn edges. Showcasing signs of subsidence and interior wall movement - causing dry ripples in wallpaper.

Sloping or Cracked Floors

A noticeable dip or slant in your floors or cracks in the pavement around your home may mean the ground underneath is shifting due to nearby roots growing and drawing up water

Rippling Wallpaper

If wallpaper begins to ripple or crease at the joins without signs of damp or moisture, it could be another sign that your walls are experiencing movement caused by subsidence of your property

Close-up of a building's window frame with sand, showing that gaps between windows and doors can also be a warning sign of subsidence caused by un-managed tree growth.

Gaps Around the Home

Look for gaps between walls and ceilings, or between your home and patios or extensions, all signs of subsidence that could be caused by overgrown trees, hedges or shrubs