Featured Sponsor
| Store | Link | Sample Product |
|---|---|---|
| UK Artful Impressions | Premiere Etsy Store |
 |
A major insurer is warning keen gardeners to consider subsidence risks when planting trees and shrubs near their homes.
Research by Aviva suggests that around a third (33%) of people with some outdoor space across the UK expect to plant new trees, hedges or shrubs this year.
The UK heatwave seen last summer has fueled concerns about subsidence risks.
In March, the Association of British Insurers (ABI) said its members expect to pay out £219m for subsidence claims made in 2022.
This would be the highest annual subsidy payment since 2006, when the total was £301m.
Figures from Aviva’s ‘building future communities’ research indicate that more than a third (36%) of UK residents are concerned about subsidence in their homes, while a quarter (26%) are specifically concerned that trees near their buildings could cause this problem. .
Censuswide surveyed more than 2,000 people across the UK in March for Aviva.
Waseem Malik, claims director at Aviva UK&I General Insurance, said: “The vast majority of homes and gardens can happily co-exist without plants causing problems for properties.”
“However, nature can be incredibly powerful and trees and shrubs will go to great lengths to find the water they need to survive during hot spells.”
“In turn, the surrounding soil can become incredibly dry and unstable if plants have removed excess moisture. In extreme cases, this can cause nearby buildings to subside.”
“Prevention is the best cure, so we encourage gardeners to think carefully if they intend to start planting this year, to make sure their homes and gardens are weather-ready.”
“Trees and shrubs can be beautiful additions to gardens, but they can grow in such proportions both above and below the surface. This can cause all sorts of problems if planted too close to structures.”
“We urge people to do some research before starting any changes to their outdoor spaces, to avoid any issues down the road.”
Ahead of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2023 (23-27 May), Aviva offers some tips to help gardeners minimize the risk of subsidence:
1. Choose your tree variety wisely
Information published by ABI suggests that certain types of trees, including poplars, willows, elms, and oaks, may be more likely to cause problems than others, due to their long, fine root structures. People may want to consult an expert for advice if they are not sure which varieties to plant.
2. Avoid planting large trees or shrubs near buildings
Most people will think of their home, but the same is true of garages and outbuildings. Remember also that a group of smaller individual cover plants can have a bigger impact when grouped together. An adequate distance will depend on the type of subsoil, variety of trees and depth of the foundations, so when in doubt, again, consult an expert.
3. Consider whether shrubs could move if they are too close to a property
If a shrub was planted after the house was built and it is still relatively small, it may be possible to relocate it to another location.
4. Take care of trees by felling or thinning their branches
This will reduce the amount of water they require and therefore allow moisture to remain in the soil.
5. Keep a close eye on trees near your property or garden
If a tree is on the street or on neighboring property, it may still affect your home or outbuildings if placed near your structures, so watch for any signs of shifting or cracking.
6. Do not remove or modify a tree that has a conservation order, unless you have all the appropriate consents
7. In addition to keeping an eye on trees and shrubs, watch out for leaky drains
Leaks from drains or water mains can also cause problems, as they can soften the soil or even wash it away, causing the land to sink. Sandy and gritty soils are more susceptible to this problem. Also, check your gutters and drains and make sure they are well maintained.
8. Be particularly vigilant in areas where clay soils are common
Subsidence is more likely to occur in areas where clay soils are prevalent, because they are more prone to shrinking during hot weather. Clay soils are usually more common in the south of England.
—————————————————-
Source link
We’re happy to share our sponsored content because that’s how we monetize our site!
| Article | Link |
|---|---|
| UK Artful Impressions | Premiere Etsy Store |
| Sponsored Content | View |
| ASUS Vivobook Review | View |
| Ted Lasso’s MacBook Guide | View |
| Alpilean Energy Boost | View |
| Japanese Weight Loss | View |
| MacBook Air i3 vs i5 | View |
| Liberty Shield | View |