More than 40% of London’s homes could be affected by subsidence by the end of the decade, a report commissioned by London’s mayor, Sadiq Khan, found. Projections indicate that the number of properties in London likely to be affected by subsidence will rise from 20% in 1990 to 43% by 2030 and more than 50% by 2070. According to a British Geological Survey, climate change is making subsidence worse.
About the Report
Commissioned by Khan and conducted by former chair of the Environment Agency, Emma Howard Boyd, the London Climate Resilience Review is a 169-page report that makes 50 recommendations to help London increase climate resilience.
The report suggests that following significant flooding in 2021 and a 40C heatwave in 2022, London and other UK towns and cities should prepare for the consequences of climate change. In particular, the hot and dry weather associated with climate change could leave many of London’s homes at risk of subsidence. As parched vegetation saps available water, soil can shrink, which could cause buildings to shift. London is particularly vulnerable due to its clay soil and densely packed homes, many of which were built before building regulations stipulated a foundation depth to help minimise subsoil shrinkage. Consequently, home and business owners must consider ways to protect their properties, to the best of their ability, from subsidence.
Along with subsidence concerns, the report found that London is at significant risk of water shortages in the future, which would impact firefighting capabilities and further threaten London’s homes.
“Climate change is one of the biggest dangers our capital faces, and its effects cannot be ignored,” Khan said following the report’s release. “It is essential that we invest in key sectors and prepare our public services so that London can continue to grow and thrive in the face of climate change, and the review provides clarity and direction on how to do this. We do not have a moment to waste.”
Next Steps
Both individuals and organisations should review their insurance policies to ensure they are covered from climate change-related concerns, especially subsidence risks.
Contact us today for further guidance and insurance solutions.