Homeowners urged to check for hidden heat damage

Reviewed by: Helen Rolph
Home, Travel & Pet Insurance Expert

Written by: Katie Gawley
Insurance Content Writer

Fact-checked by: Quotezone Editorial Team

This content follows our Editorial Guidelines

Last Updated: September 2026
Read time: 5 min

Homeowners are being urged to inspect their properties for signs of heat-related damage, as issues caused by prolonged high temperatures could become more expensive once autumn weather sets in.

Home insurance experts at Quotezone.co.uk have highlighted six areas of the home that are particularly vulnerable after periods of hot weather.

The warning comes following this year’s warm spring and summer, with the Met Office describing 2026 as “warmer and drier” than the same point in 2025, which went on to become the UK’s warmest summer on record.*

2026 has become the first year on record to reach 35°C in May, June and July, while overnight temperatures have also been running at record levels.*

While the effects of hot weather may not always be immediately obvious, prolonged spells can cause building materials to expand, dry out or deteriorate, leaving homes more susceptible to leaks and structural problems when wetter weather returns.

These extreme conditions can cause the ground beneath some homes, particularly those built on clay soils, to shrink, potentially leading to cracks in walls and foundations.

While some cracks may only require minor repairs, structural cracks caused by subsidence can cost an average of £17,000 to put right, depending on the extent of the damage.** Given the extreme heat, the Association of British Insurers (ABI) is reporting record average subsidence claims of £20,000.*** 

Heat can also cause roof tiles to crack, loosen or slip, leaving homes vulnerable to leaks once autumn rain arrives. Replacing a roof typically costs £8,000 on average, making it well worth addressing minor issues before they worsen.****

Other common signs of heat-related wear include warped guttering, expanding wooden doors, crumbling mortar and cracked sealant around window frames – many of these issues can be spotted with a simple visual inspection. Addressing concerns early could help homeowners avoid costly repairs and protect their no-claims bonus.

Helen Rolph, home insurance expert at Quotezone.co.uk said: “When we think about property damage, it’s often heavy rain, flooding and storms that come to mind. But prolonged periods of hot weather can also take their toll on homes, and the effects aren’t always immediately obvious.

“Heat causes building materials to expand, contract and dry out over time, which can leave homes more vulnerable once autumn’s wet and windy weather arrives.

“It’s worth taking time to inspect the property before the seasons change. Looking out for cracked or slipped roof tiles, new cracks around walls and windows, warped guttering, or doors and windows that no longer fit properly. Spotting these issues early can help prevent water getting into homes and reduce the likelihood of more costly repairs later on.

“Homeowners should also make sure they have the right level of home insurance in place. While buildings insurance may cover sudden and unexpected damage caused by insured events – wear and tear or damage resulting from a lack of maintenance is unlikely to be covered, so carrying out regular checks and repairs is incredibly important.”

Here are six signs of heat-related property damage to check before autumn:

1. Cracks in walls and foundations

Long periods of dry weather can cause the ground beneath some homes, particularly those built on clay soils, to shrink. This can sometimes lead to new cracks appearing in walls or around doors and windows. While smaller cracks can be common, larger or widening cracks should be investigated.

2. Warped gutters and drains

Plastic guttering can soften and expand during prolonged heat, causing sections to warp or joints to separate. Damaged gutters may struggle to cope with autumn downpours, increasing the risk of water overflowing onto walls and foundations.

3. Roof damage

Heat causes roofing materials to expand and contract, which can loosen, crack or dislodge roof tiles. Checking for slipped or damaged tiles after a hot summer can help prevent leaks during periods of heavy rain and strong winds.

4. Damaged brickwork

High temperatures and strong sunlight can gradually weaken mortar between bricks, causing it to crumble or loosen. Damaged pointing allows water to penetrate the wall during wetter months, potentially leading to damp and further deterioration if left untreated.

5. Expanding wooden doors

Wooden doors naturally expand in hot weather, making them difficult to open, close or lock. While they often return to normal as temperatures cool, persistent sticking could indicate the wood has warped.

6. Cracked window sealant

Heat and UV exposure can cause the sealant around window frames to dry out and become brittle. Replacing damaged sealant before autumn can help keep out rain and draughts.

Quotezone helps over four million customers every year to compare and find savings on all sorts of home essentials, such as home emergency cover and nonstandard home insurance. 

References:
*https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/blog/2026/summer-2026-so-far-a-look-at-the-season-at-the-halfway-point-
**https://www.fmb.org.uk/resource/house-subsidence-repair-costs-signs-causes-and-what-to-do-next.html
***https://www.abi.org.uk/media-hub/news-post/average-claim-for-subsidence-reaches-record-20000-amidst-hot-weather
****https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/cost-guides/roof-replacement-cost/

Photo credit – iStock.com LSOphoto

This article is intended as generic information only and is not intended to apply to anybody’s specific circumstances, demands or needs. The views expressed are not intended to provide any financial service or to give any recommendation or advice. Products and services are only mentioned for illustrative rather than promotional purposes.