The purpose of the research is to evaluate the deformation properties of water-saturated clay shale to determine the displacements of the earth's surface. The analysis of the impact of mining on the environmental situation of town Shakhty in Rostov region was done. It is noted that the closure of coal mines and pumping termination of underground water led to flooding of the developed spaces of mining enterprises. This led to a change in the mechanical characteristics of clay rocks, their softening and compaction under the influence of rock pressure. Taking into account the significant capacity of clay shale in the structure of the rock mass and the technology of mining coal seams, there are currently surface deformations and the formation of cracks in the structures of buildings. According to the results of experimental studies, the deformation characteristics of clay shale under prolonged moistening have been established, affecting the precipitation of the foundations of buildings and, accordingly, lead to the formation of defects in buildings and structures. The obtained characteristics of fragmented clay shale can be used for modeling the stress-strain state of a rock mass and the development of deformations on the earth's surface by the finite element method.