Florida Sinkhole Lawyer
When it comes to sinkholes in Florida, people have a lot of misconceptions. Below, we at Corless Associates in Tampa have provided a list of frequently asked questions to help you understand sinkholes and how they can affect property owners:
- How are sinkholes caused? Over a period of years, slightly acidic rainwater seeps underground and slowly dissolves layers of limestone. When the cavity eventually gets large enough to become unable to support the weight of overlying sediments, the earth falls into that open space.
- Is this soft spot in my yard a sinkhole? It might be, but it could also be the result of shrinking expansive clay layers, buried organic material, poorly-compacted soil after excavation work or buried trash.
- What should I do if I suspect I have a sinkhole? If you notice signs of sinkhole property damage, you may file a claim with your homeowners insurance company. The insurer will begin an investigation. In the meantime, mark the area in question and do not allow anyone on it. You can also report the incident to the Florida Geological Survey.
- Should I be worried if a sinkhole appeared in my neighbor's yard? Most sinkholes are isolated incidents, so unless the sinkhole reaches your property, this is not necessarily cause for concern. However, you may want to inspect your yard for any signs of sinking or softness.
- How can I tell if there is sinkhole risk near my property? Since the underground cavities are essentially undetectable without extensive testing, there is no effective method to determine your risk.
- Is it safe to purchase a repaired sinkhole property? There are a number of engineering firms that commonly repair sinkhole damage by grouting or underpinning. If the repair has been certified by a licensed engineer and approved by the insurance company, it is most likely safe. However, there is no guarantee that you will not encounter future problems.
- If an insurance company denied coverage because there was confirmed sinkhole activity within a half mile of my property, what rights do I have? Unfortunately, insurance companies are allowed to deny coverage on the basis of sinkholes in the nearby area. At this time, the definition of "area" is being debated. Therefore, you may want to shop around for another insurance company.
If you have other questions that were not addressed in our sinkhole FAQ, speak with our attorney. Contact us online or call 813-498-1623 or 877-517-5595 to arrange a free initial consultation. We answer phone calls 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Evening and weekend appointments are available.
We handle sinkhole claims on a contingency fee basis. That means we don't get paid until you do.
