Most people living in this state are aware that sinkholes are to be expected now more than ever. They have been labeled as a predominant land form in the southwestern part of the state by the water management district. That’s why many insurance agents suggest that Florida homeowners make sure that they have sinkhole coverage.
What Causes Sinkholes?
A sinkhole is caused by the amount of water in an aquifer. The limestone that is beneath the surface dissolves from too little or too much rainfall. Since extremes in rainfall are a way of life in Florida, this increases the chances of a sinkhole forming.
Homeowners in the southern part of the state are understandably concerned about sinkholes. They are always getting either too little or too much rain with no in-between.
Unfortunately, sinkholes occur without any warning whatsoever and can swallow:
- Cars
- Houses
- People
There might be a sinkhole beneath your home right now, and you might never know it.
You can’t prevent a sinkhole from happening, but you can do something about it. Protect yourself financially by adding sinkhole coverage to your home insurance policy.
Sinkhole Coverage Is Not a Standard Insurance Policy Addition
Sinkholes have been an increasingly common, although unwelcome, occurrence. They are not, however, included on most home insurance policies. The same is true for hurricane coverage. Nonetheless, progress has been made in Florida.
Insurance companies are required to offer coverage for sinkholes when you purchase a home insurance policy. Unfortunately, most homeowners choose to opt-out due to skyrocketing premiums.
What Does Coverage Include?
This type of additional coverage includes:
- Damages directly related to a sinkhole
- Losses to the structure
- The contents located within that structure
This insurance coverage also includes the cost to:
- Repair the damaged home
- Stabilization of the land beneath a home
- Repairs to a home’s foundation
Identifying a Sinkhole
You can keep an eye out for any ‘symptoms’ of a sinkhole. This can help you get coverage before it’s too late. Your home’s foundation is the best place to check for sinkhole symptoms. The early symptoms will usually appear as foundation issues.
Some of the other signs are cracks on your property in any of the following:
- Sidewalk
- Driveway
- Wall
Floors becoming uneven can also be a sign of a sinkhole. Have any windows and doors become increasingly difficult to close? That is a sign that there could be a sinkhole. Even water stains and higher utility bills might be signs that a sinkhole could be imminent.
It would be a good idea to contact your insurance company right away after having identified any of these issues. We would also recommend contacting a public adjuster. Our knowledge and finesse with communicating with your insurance company, at Aftermath Adjusting & Consulting, is priceless. It is also exactly what you need in a situation where a sinkhole could swallow everything you own. Call us today.
