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In this paper, the influence of soil moisture transfer on building heat loss via the ground is investigated by comparing fully coupled simulations with linear thermal simulations. The observed influences of coupling are (1) the larger amplitude of surface temperature, (2) the variation of thermal conductivity with moisture content, and (3) the advection of sensible heat by liquid transfer. In a parameter study, it is shown that these conclusions hold for a variety of climates, soils and foundation constructions. However, given the current accuracy level of standard methods, the integration of coupling effects in these calculation methods cannot be defended.