Sinkhole Damage Claims

Sinkhole Damage Claims

From September 2017, when Hurricane Irma made landfall, through April 2018, there were over 400 reports of sinkholes throughout the State of Florida. Sinkholes are a natural result of Florida’s geology; a phenomenon our residents have experienced directly and indirectly over time, causing varying degrees of damage to roads, structures, walkways, and even their own property.

Because sinkholes require explicit coverage and evidence of occurrence to be covered by the insurance company, it is not always easy to get the insurance settlement you deserve when your home, business, or other property has been damaged. Our Florida insurance claims attorneys can help you pursue the maximum financial recovery available from your insurance company, even if they have already denied your claim.

Why Do Sinkholes Occur So Frequently In Florida?

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the most damage recorded from sinkholes in the United States occurs in the State of Florida.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection cites the extensive limestone bedrock found throughout the state as one of the most susceptible surfaces to erosion, because of its porous nature. When the sediment or limestone — under your home, car, business, or other property — is gradually washed away, the pockets of underground voids allow the land to collapse, causing extensive damage to anything above or around it.

When your property is damaged because of a sinkhole, the insurance company is going to challenge your claim. At The Morgan Law Group, P.A., our Florida sinkhole damage claims lawyers can help you file a claim that reflects the coverage outlined in your policy, giving the insurance company very little room to respond with resistance. And as the claim proceeds, we will negotiate the best financial outcome available for your unique needs.

What Are The Most Common Signs Of Sinkholes Occurring In Florida?

Since sinkholes begin well below the earth’s surface, the common signs of their damage typically begin with structural damage that loosens the surface resulting in a collapse that can cause irreparable damage.

Depending on the location, size, and relevance of the structures nearby, common signs of sinkholes can include:

• Cracks in interior walls
• Cracks in exterior walls
• Cracks in driveways or pool decks
• Cracks in the ground outside
• Depressions in the ground
• Doors or windows become difficult to open or close
• Fresh cracks in the foundations of houses and buildings
• Pooling of water in specific areas of the property
• Rapid appearance of a hole in the ground
• Slanting or sinking of the property
• Trees or fence posts that tilt or fall

Sinkhole damage can leave homeowners in a difficult position of recovery. When possible, all property owners should act as soon as they become aware of potential sinkhole activity in order to protect their property and possessions quickly and effectively with the benefits outlined in their insurance policies

Is Sinkhole Damage Covered In My Insurance Policy?

New laws governing insurance coverage in the State of Florida do not include sinkhole insurance — although it is available at an additional cost.

However, insurance policies must contain coverage for catastrophic ground cover collapse, but not necessarily damage from a sinkhole.

To meet the criteria for damage sustained from a catastrophic ground cover collapse, the following must be true:

• The sinking must have occurred abruptly
• The depression in the ground must be visible without the use of instruments
• The home must have suffered structural damage, including damage to the foundation
• A government agency must condemn and evacuate the structure

When your insurance policy contains sinkhole coverage, you may be protected from structure cracks and other damages that are not including in the catastrophic collapse. Insurance companies will respond more favorably to clients who have an experienced claims attorney by their side while filing a claim. At The Morgan Law Group, P.A., our sinkhole insurance claims attorneys in Florida work tirelessly to hold the insurance companies responsible for the policy they wrote, and that our clients have paid for. We can help you hold them accountable for your sinkhole damage, too.

Is There A Deadline For Filing A Sinkhole Damage Claim in Florida?

In the States of Florida, sinkhole damage claims must be filed within a two-year period after they occur. Unfortunately, insurance companies are notorious for rejecting claims near their legal deadlines, allowing very little time for policyholders to have their sinkhole damage tested or repaired.

This could leave you, your home, and property in a compromised position. You deserve more from the policy you have, and from the premiums you have paid, and we will place the necessary legal pressure on the insurance company to uphold their end of your agreement.

If you are getting resistance from your insurance company after your home or property has suffered from sinkhole damage, contact our Florida insurance claims lawyers at The Morgan Law Group, P.A. at 888-904-2524 to learn how we can help you face the insurance company with confidence, and get the financial recovery you deserve for your damages.

If you have suffered mold damage to your home or business and the insurance company is delaying, denying, or underpaying your claim, call us today for a Free Consultation at 888-904-2524. We have offices throughout Florida to assist policyholders.  We have a “No Recovery, No Fee” policy meaning that unless we recover on your behalf, there is no cost to you.

The Morgan Law Group, P.A. is a Sinkhole Damage Claim law firm in Orlando, Miami, Naples, Tampa, Pensacola and Panama City. Our Orlando, Miami, Naples, Tampa, Pensacola, and Panama Sinkhole Damage attorneys in Florida offers free consultation in a safe, trusting, comfortable environment. Call our law firm now to learn how our Orlando, Miami, Naples, Tampa, Pensacola, and Panama Sinkhole Damage claim attorneys can help you confront the insurance company for the financial recovery you deserve.