Subsidance

A worker in an orange safety vest and helmet climbing a tall, leafless tree with many twisted branches, using ropes for support. Overcast sky in the background.

Can a tree contribute to subsidence?

Trees can contribute to subsidence, particularly when:

  • Large trees are growing close to buildings

  • Trees are taking significant moisture from the soil

  • The property is built on shrinkable clay soil

  • Dry weather causes the soil to shrink

  • Tree roots are growing beneath or close to foundations

A man wearing safety gear, including a helmet and orange high-visibility vest, inspecting a tree outdoors with a tablet in hand.

Signs to look out for

  • Cracks appearing in walls

  • Doors or windows sticking

  • Uneven or sloping floors

  • Changes to brickwork or masonry

  • Cracks becoming wider over time

A nearby tree doesn't automatically mean it's causing subsidence. Soil conditions, tree species, root growth and foundations all need to be considered.

How can Beechwood help?

We can provide professional arboricultural advice to help determine the appropriate course of action, which may include:

  • Tree assessment

  • Pruning

  • Monitoring

  • Root management

  • Tree removal, where appropriate

Get in Touch

We’d love to hear from you! Whether you have a project in mind or need advice, we're here to help. You can reach us in two easy ways:

Testimonials