Subsidence Claims That Are Not Paid Out

Ever felt like you're living in a real-life version of "The Sinking of the Lusitania," but without the historical significance or Titanic-level drama? Welcome to the world of subsidence claims that go unpaid. Grab a cuppa, let's dive in.

What's Subsidence When It's at Home?

Subsidence, in simple terms, is when your home starts to sink into the ground. It's like your house is playing a game of musical chairs with the earth, and it's always the one left standing... or rather, sinking. This can happen due to various reasons, from leaky pipes to mining activities, or even the ground beneath your home being like a sponge that's lost its thirst.

When Claims Go South

So, you've noticed cracks in your walls, your doors are sticking, and your floors are as uneven as a rollercoaster track. You've done the right thing, called your insurer, and made a claim. But then, nothing. Crickets. Silence. Your claim's gone MIA, and you're left wondering if you've been ghosted by your insurance company.

Why the Cold Shoulder?

There are several reasons why your subsidence claim might be getting the cold shoulder. It could be that your policy doesn't cover subsidence, or perhaps the insurer thinks it's not subsidence after all, but something else (like settlement, which is when a new build home settles into its foundations). Maybe they're just being stingy, but let's not go down that rabbit hole.

Tips to Keep Your Claim Afloat

Don't let your claim sink like the Titanic. Here are some tips to keep it afloat:

Subsidence Advisory Publications | NSW Government

• Document, document, document. Take photos, keep records, and maintain a timeline of events. You want to be able to show your insurer that you're not crying wolf.
• Get a professional opinion. Hire a structural engineer or a surveyor to assess the damage. Their report can strengthen your claim.
• Be patient. Insurance claims take time. Don't be that person who calls every day asking for an update. But do keep tabs on your claim's progress.

Fun Fact: The House That Moved

In 1989, a house in Texas was moved 1,800 feet to avoid demolition. It was lifted onto hydraulic jacks, placed on dollies, and slowly rolled to its new location. Now that's a claim you'd want to make!

Reflection: The Ground Beneath Our Feet

Subsidence claims that don't get paid out can feel like a personal failure, like you've been let down by the very system that's supposed to protect you. But remember, it's not just about the money. It's about safety, security, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is solid ground. So, keep fighting, keep documenting, and keep your chin up. After all, home is where the heart is, not where the ground is.