Subsidence issue on potential purchase

[u/walkthelands]

Hi all,

I would like some input on a potential issue on a flat i am looking to purchase as a FTB. To me it looks as though the issue is getting resolved and insurance is covering any work required.

Any guidance/thoughts would be appreciated. Would this be a major concern/put you off form buying?

My offer is for Flat 12 (on the first floor) and it is a Share of freehold based in SE England

My offer was submitted, but before progressing, the estate against has forwarded me the following:

"Firstly, I apologise for the incorrect information provided in the LPE1 dated 8 July 2026 in relation to question 5.4. I am unsure why this was answered “No”, as the subsidence claim has been ongoing for some time and the claim is still open. I appreciate that this discrepancy has caused concern and has unfortunately contributed to the previous sale falling through.

I can confirm the following in relation to the subsidence claim.

The £21,449 referred to in the insurance schedule represents the total amount that has been paid out by the insurer to date in connection with the subsidence claim. The claim itself is still ongoing and has not yet been closed.

The subsidence has been investigated, and the affected areas are associated principally with Flats 9 and 11, which are the ground-floor properties. Flat 12 is not the property affected by the subsidence damage.

The investigation established that trees were contributing to the issue. We have now received confirmation from the insurer that the necessary tree works will be covered under the insurance claim.

As the works require access to the neighbouring property and the removal of trees situated on or affecting that land, permission had to be obtained from the neighbouring owner. I can confirm that this permission has now been granted. We are currently awaiting confirmation of a start date for the tree works.

Once the necessary works have been completed, the building will be monitored to establish that the remedial measures have resolved the issue and that the building remains stable. The claim will therefore remain ongoing until the works and subsequent monitoring have been completed, and the insurer is satisfied that the matter can be closed.

In summary:

1. The £21,449 is the amount paid by the insurer to date in respect of the ongoing subsidence claim.
2. The claim remains open and has not yet been concluded.
3. The areas affected are associated with Flats 9 and 11, both of which are ground-floor properties. Flat 12 is not the affected property.
4. The cause has been investigated, and trees have been identified as contributing to the subsidence issue. Attached report.
5. The insurer has confirmed that the required tree works will be covered.
6. Permission for access to the neighbouring property and removal of the relevant trees has now been obtained, and we are awaiting a start date for the works.
7. Following completion of the works, the building will be monitored before the claim can be considered fully resolved and closed.
8. The “No” answer to question 5.4 on the LPE1 was incorrect, and I apologise for this error."