The Manchester Property Owner’s Annual Subsidence Prevention Checklist

Subsidence prevention isn’t complicated or expensive. It’s systematic maintenance that Victorian homes need to survive Manchester’s climate and clay soil.

Here’s your annual checklist for properties across Greater Manchester—particularly valuable for homes in Chorlton, Didsbury, Sale, Altrincham, and Stockport.

Spring checklist (March-April):

☐ Clear gutters of winter debris and moss (£80-150 or DIY)
☐ Check all downpipes securely attached and discharging properly
☐ Inspect drainage gullies for blockages
☐ Walk property perimeter checking ground levels around foundations
☐ Photograph all external walls (create annual comparison record)
☐ Test all doors and windows for smooth operation
☐ Inspect internal walls for any new cracks
☐ Book tree inspection if you have mature trees (£150-300)

Summer checklist (July-August):

☐ During dry spells, consider soaker hoses near foundations
☐ Monitor soil moisture levels near large trees
☐ Check for signs of ground shrinkage or cracking
☐ Re-test doors and windows (compare to spring operation)
☐ Photograph same internal wall locations as spring
☐ Check basement or cellar for changing dampness

Autumn checklist (October-November):

☐ Clear gutters of fallen leaves (critical before winter rain)
☐ Flush downpipes to ensure clear
☐ Post-summer crack inspection (do new cracks appear after dry weather?)
☐ Photograph walls again (compare to spring and summer)
☐ Measure any concerning cracks with ruler, record widths
☐ Document any doors/windows that developed seasonal sticking

Winter checklist (January-February):

☐ Check for gutter overflow during heavy rain
☐ Inspect for water pooling near foundations
☐ Check downpipe discharge areas not waterlogged
☐ Look for new cracks appearing post-rainfall
☐ Monitor basement dampness
☐ Review year’s photos—is there progressive change?

Five-year maintenance:

☐ CCTV drain survey (£150-300)
☐ Professional structural inspection if Victorian property (£400-600)
☐ Full tree survey if mature trees present (£200-400)
☐ Review and update buildings insurance

Total annual cost: £250-600 for full preventive programme
Average subsidence underpinning cost: £15,000-50,000

Manchester’s clay soil and Victorian housing mean maintenance isn’t optional—it’s essential protection for your largest investment.

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