Risk assessment and evaluation: The implications of cracking for insurance cover and warranties

What are the risk assessments that are required in respect of the design, construction and performance of structures in particular the various site investigations? This can range from the desk study through to the actual physical site investigation and testing of the soil properties. In addition, there is the risk assessment of the quality and the processes used in the construction of the buildings and how these vary in relation to traditional methods and modern methods of construction. When the buildings are complete what are the measures that can be undertaken to minimist the risks of cracking occurring? These range from controlling the planting and maintenance of vegetation where the property is constructed on a clay soil, to ensuring that drains are kept watertight and suitable expansion joints are provided to allow for thermal movement.In the unfortunate event that cracking does occur, what is covered under an insurance policy or building guarantee? The standard warranty consists of three parts: the building period; the developer's guarantee/warranty period (DGP/DWP) and the structural insurance period (SIP). Cover for cracking on insurance policies mainly relates to the peril of subsidence heave or landslip, although sometimes there will be cover under the accidental damage section of some policies.