Refer your clients to a subsidence specialist

When a property shows the early signs of subsidence, the first to hear about it are often estate agents, surveyors, conveyancers, loss adjusters and property managers. A diagonal crack above a window, a door that sticks after a dry summer, or a note in a homebuyer's report can all point to ground movement. Your client needs a specialist who can inspect the building and record what is happening. When you refer a case, a local specialist will contact your client directly. The specialist will visit the property, measure any cracks, check whether movement is ongoing, and explain the options. If repair work is needed, your client receives a free quote. The specialist writes up the findings, and that report belongs to your client. They can pass it to an insurer, lender or solicitor without asking you for anything further. After the referral, your client deals with the specialist on all technical matters, so you are not left fielding questions about underpinning or wall ties. Firms of every size refer cases, from a sole agent with one awkward property to a property management company handling several at once.

What the client gets from a referral

• A no-cost quote for any repair work found, with no obligation to accept it.
• A specialist who inspects the property on site rather than judging from photographs.
• Written findings your client can submit to an insurer, lender or solicitor.
• Cracks caused by subsidence identified separately from those with a different structural cause.
• A single point of contact for surveys, monitoring and repairs.

To refer a client, use the enquiry page. Include your company name, a phone number or email address, the address of the property, and a short note on anything already noticed. Before you submit, confirm that your client has agreed to their details being shared.