Subsidence is the word every homeowner fears, and one of the most over-diagnosed problems in housing. An independent engineer tells you whether you actually have it.

Genuine subsidence vs normal movement

True subsidence, downward movement of the ground supporting the foundations, shows a distinctive pattern: diagonal cracking concentrated near corners or openings, doors and windows sticking progressively, and movement that continues season on season. Clay shrinkage near trees, leaking drains washing out fines, and historic mining are the usual causes in West Yorkshire. Much of what gets called subsidence is actually settled, stable, decades-old movement.

Our subsidence inspection

• Full inspection of crack patterns, floors, drains layout and nearby trees
• Assessment of whether movement is active or historic
• Clear next steps: monitoring, drainage investigation, or repair, only what’s justified
• A report you can put in front of your insurer or use in a purchase negotiation

Mining areas

Around Wakefield, Morley, Garforth, Rothwell and Castleford, historic coal workings add a local dimension most national firms miss. We’ve surveyed above them for decades.

Why an independent survey matters

We are an independent firm of structural engineers, not tied to any estate agent, lender or builder. Our only job is to tell you the truth about the building. Established in 1981, we have inspected thousands of homes across Leeds and West Yorkshire, and our reports are accepted by mortgage lenders, solicitors and insurers.

What you get

• A clear written report in plain English, with photographs
• A definite answer: is it serious, is it historic, does it need monitoring or repair
• Repair recommendations and, where needed, outline costs
• Fast turnaround, reports typically delivered within days of inspection

We survey across Leeds, Wakefield, Bradford, Harrogate and all of West Yorkshire, see all areas and services.