What You Need to Know Before Buying a House with a History of Subsidence

Buying a house is one of the most significant investments you will make. If you’re considering a property in Adelaide that has a history of subsidence or has been underpinned, it’s important to proceed with caution.

Understanding the implications and ensuring the home’s structural integrity is critical to making an informed decision.

Critical Considerations for Prospective Homeowners

1. Understand the Cause of Subsidence: Knowledge is power. Determine the underlying reasons for the subsidence. Was it due to soil erosion, leaking drains, or nearby construction? Understanding the cause can help assess future risks.
2. Check the Underpinning Work: Investigate who carried out the underpinning work and how long ago it was completed. Ensure qualified professionals perform the work and ask for guarantees or warranties.
3. Inspection and Certification: Ensure a structural engineer has inspected the property and has a current structural certification. This confirms that the home is stable and safe post-underpinning.
4. Duration Before Further Underpinning: Ask how long an underpinned house can last before it needs further underpinning. Typically, quality underpinning should last for decades, but this depends on the underlying conditions and maintenance.
5. Impact on Property Value: Discuss with a real estate expert how underpinning affects property value. While underpinning as a solution can reassure buyers, it can also raise concerns, potentially influencing the sale price.
6. Safety Guarantees: Research what guarantees are available for an underpinned house. Ask professionals about the structure’s long-term safety and stability.
7. Insurance Implications: Check with insurance providers about how they treat policies for homes with a history of subsidence or underpinning. Some insurers may have specific requirements or premiums for such properties.
8. Ongoing Maintenance: Ensure you understand any ongoing maintenance requirements that prevent future subsidence and maintain structural integrity.

A few questions to ask when buying a house House with a history of subsidence.

How long can an underpinned house last before needing underpinning again?

If done correctly, an underpinned house should last many years—often providing stability for 30 to 50 years, depending on conditions.

Does underpinning degrade the value of the house?

Not necessarily. While some buyers may be wary, underpinning can restore value by resolving stability issues, making the home more attractive if documented appropriately.

What’s the guarantee that an underpinned house is safe?

Safety guarantees depend on the quality of work and materials used. Always seek warranties from reputable contractors and ensure adherence to building standards.

Summary

Purchasing a property with a history of subsidence demands due diligence. Understanding the causes, evaluating repairs, and considering future risks is essential to wise investments. Thorough checks, professional advice, and inspections can ensure peace of mind and protect your investment.

Call to Action

If you are considering buying a home in Adelaide with subsidence issues or past underpinning, contact JR Southern Underpinning. Our team of experts offers comprehensive inspections and the professional advice you need.

Are you looking to strengthen your home? We provide free quotes and exceptional service to ensure your property is safe and secure. Contact us today for expert advice and solutions.