Guidance for how to reduce your financial risks

Simple actions to reduce the financial risks from inadequate insurance cover for property damage caused by clay shrink swell

Ask the right questions before buying a property

Before buying a property, take time to check its history and exposure to clay shrink swell and other climate risks. Make sure you know about the following issues:

Risky area

Is the property in a risky area for clay shrink swell?

Previous damage

Has the property already been subject to clay shrink swell and how have the repairs been carried out?

Natural Risk Prevention Plan

Is the property in an area covered by a Natural Risk Prevention Plan (PPRN)?

Ensure preventive measures are in place

Consult technical specialists to identify preventative measures and implement them effectively. Document all preventive measures taken as the insurance company may require proof of these measures when reviewing an insurance claim.

Vertical measures

Vertical measures are individual to the property and specifically designed to prevent clay shrink swell. They are very effective but typically expensive.

Horizontal measures

Horizontal measures involve the surrounding environment to prevent soil movement (e.g. drainage systems, planting vegetation to stabilise soil etc.). While their effectiveness is not perfect they are less expensive.

Financing options

Explore financing options to assist with implementing the preventative measures

The Fonds de Prévention des Risques Naturels Majeurs (FPRNM) could help homeowners cover the cost of the preventive measures. This is linked to the Cat Nat scheme and plays a crucial role in funding a wide range of preventive measures outlined in a PPRN. However, at present there is significant uncertainty as to whether the FPRNM can be accessed to provide financial support to implement preventative measures for clay shrink swell. If the FPRNM does not cover clay shrink swell, you will need to explore other ways to cover the costs of implementing preventative measures.

Use your voice as a citizen

Together we can make a difference. Use your voice in community and political action to improve the resilience of your local area to climate risks.

Public debates

Engage in public debates on land use planning to support local policies to improve infrastructure and increase adaptation measures

Association participation

Participate in associations to raise public awareness of the issue and advocate for better rights and protection for homeowners

Lobbying

Lobby local and national policymakers for better climate adaptation measures (e.g. a better PPRN or more accessible funding to implement preventative measures)

Request a specific clause in your home insurance policy

Homeowners can in theory request that insurers include a clause in their home insurance contracts that covers property damage from clay shrink swell even when a natural catastrophe has not been recognised by the State. While there is no established practice for this yet, pressure on the insurance industry if enough property owners make this demand, could potentially lead to change.