Residential subsidence case study
Challenge
Growing subsidence cracks in a victorian home created uncertainty, with concerns over costly underpinning, structural damage and prolonged disruption.
Solution
GeoBear delivered rapid, non-invasive ground improvement, stabilising foundations while coordinating drainage investigations to minimise disruption and provide lasting reassurance.
On Site
Repaired
Guarantee
The owner of a late Victorian property in North London first became aware of historic subsidence when purchasing the home in 2012. Although the issue had been identified in the original survey, it remained stable for many years before new cracks gradually appeared towards the rear of the property.
Concerned that the movement was progressing, the homeowner decided it was time to investigate. Like many homeowners facing subsidence for the first time, they were worried about the potential cost, disruption and uncertainty often associated with traditional underpinning.
Site investigations identified clay soils beneath the foundations, while drainage surveys revealed several defects requiring investigation and repair before ground improvement could proceed.
The project involved more than simply stabilising the foundations. Existing decking restricted access to parts of the treatment area and had to be removed beforehand, while drainage surveys uncovered multiple defects that required further investigation and monitoring before treatment could safely begin.
Despite these additional requirements, it was important to keep the homeowner fully informed throughout the process, ensuring they understood each stage of the investigation and why the additional surveys were necessary.
client quote
Phil Butcher
Following detailed investigations, Geobear designed a bespoke ground improvement solution using specialist geopolymer injection technology.
Working from externally positioned injection locations, the team treated the ground to multiple depths beneath the affected foundations, carefully monitoring the structure throughout the process to ensure controlled stabilisation. Drain monitoring formed an important part of the works due to the condition of the existing drainage network, allowing treatment to be completed safely while protecting underground services.
Although unforeseen drainage issues extended the preparation phase, the foundation treatment itself was completed in just two days, dramatically reducing disruption compared with traditional excavation methods.
The homeowner was impressed by both the speed of the works and the communication throughout the project.
Although additional drainage investigations were required, Geobear kept the homeowner informed at every stage, arranging surveys and coordinating the process to ensure everything progressed smoothly.
The completed works stabilised the affected foundations while avoiding extensive excavation, allowing the homeowner to remain in the property throughout. The installation is supported by a transferable 10-year guarantee, providing long-term peace of mind.
Every home is unique. Our experts are ready to listen and provide answers tailored to your specific property and concerns.
