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Sinkhole Damage

 

Sinkholes occur when groundwater erodes the limestone beneath the ground, resulting in large holes where the land gives way and sinks into the earth. Our Florida insurance lawyers help clients file insurance claims for damages caused by sinkholes.

SINKHOLE DAMAGE

In Florida, sinkholes are common. Many people believe the damage occurs only when the sinkhole opens. However, damage from a sinkhole can occur without the earth opening up to create a hole. As the earth slowly sinks because of the groundwater erosion, the damage develops gradually. The slow process of the ground giving way causes increasing damage to a house or commercial building.

In Florida, the law regarding sinkhole claims has been revised several times in the past few years. The Florida insurance claim attorneys at Murray Law Group can advise you on the version of law that applies to your claim and how the law affects your rights regarding coverage and compensation for sinkhole damages.

COMMON SIGNS OF SINKHOLE DAMAGE

Sometimes, a property owner notices changes or damage that might indicate a potential sinkhole. These changes include:

  • Cracking foundations.
  • Cracking around door and window frames.
  • Windows or doors that do not close properly.
  • Cracks in walls.
  • Depressions in the yard or driveway.
  • Tilting or sinking of a section of a floor.
  • Separation of walls from ceilings or floors.
  • Separation of a house from its foundation.
  • Pipes breaking or swimming pool leaks.
  • Tree roots that are exposed that were not previously exposed.
  • Fence posts that start sagging or slanting.

PREPARE AND FILE A CLAIM WITH HELP FROM MURRAY + MURRAY

When you have a sinkhole claim, make sure you photograph the damage and report the issues to your insurance agent as soon as possible. Save any repair receipts and work with others, such as neighbors, who may have had the same problem. Following these simple steps can help our attorneys file a claim or fight bad faith insurance practices on your behalf.

The Florida insurance lawyers of Murray Law Group provide free initial consultations in English or Spanish. If needed, we can come to you. Contact our law firm by calling 1-855-269-4317 to request more information or schedule an appointment with an experienced insurance attorney in Florida.

General Other CLAIM FAQS

Coverage for sinkhole damage depends on the specifics of your insurance policy. In Florida, insurers are required to offer optional sinkhole coverage for an additional premium. However, your policy may include coverage for “catastrophic ground cover collapse,” which only applies if certain criteria are met. An attorney can help you understand your policy and ensure your claim is filed properly.

If you believe your property has sinkhole damage:

  • Document the damage: Take photos or videos of cracks, tilting floors, or any other issues.
  • Contact your insurance company: Notify them as soon as possible.
  • Save receipts: Keep records of any temporary repairs or inspections.
  • Consult an attorney: Working with an experienced sinkhole damage lawyer can help you navigate the claims process and protect your rights.

While sinkhole damage may occur slowly over time, catastrophic ground cover collapse involves a sudden and dramatic ground failure that meets the following criteria:

  • The ground abruptly collapses.
  • A depression in the ground is clearly visible.
  • Structural damage to a covered building occurs.
  • The property is deemed uninhabitable.

Standard policies may not cover gradual sinkhole damage unless you have specific sinkhole coverage. Speak with our attorneys to learn more about your options.

If your claim is denied, don’t give up. Insurers sometimes deny claims due to insufficient documentation, improper filing, or bad faith practices. Our attorneys can review your case, identify errors or unjust denials, and fight for your rights to fair compensation.

Florida law imposes strict deadlines for filing property damage claims, including those related to sinkholes. It’s essential to act quickly to avoid missing these deadlines. Contact Murray Law Group as soon as possible to protect your claim.

Filing a sinkhole claim may affect your premiums, as insurers view sinkhole-prone areas as higher risk. However, protecting your property and securing the compensation you need often outweigh potential rate increases. An attorney can guide you through the process to minimize the impact on your insurance rates.

Yes. If your neighbors are noticing similar damage, it could indicate a larger, localized sinkhole issue. Collaborating with your neighbors to document the problem and report it can strengthen your case. Our attorneys can assist with community-wide claims and investigations.

Sinkhole damage claims can be complex, requiring knowledge of evolving Florida laws and insurance policies. An attorney can:

  • Navigate the legal and procedural requirements.
  • Protect you from bad faith insurance tactics.
  • Maximize your chances of receiving full compensation.

At Murray Law Group, we offer free consultations to discuss your case and determine the best course of action.

Our team has extensive experience handling sinkhole damage claims in Florida. We can:

  • Evaluate your insurance policy and determine your coverage.
  • Assist with filing your claim and gathering necessary evidence.
  • Negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.
  • Represent you in disputes or litigation if your claim is delayed, denied, or underpaid.

At Murray Law Group, we’re committed to holding insurance companies accountable and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to discuss your claim!

CALL A FIRM WITH 50+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

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Murray Law Group’s Florida insurance attorneys have recovered hundreds of millions for thousands of clients in Florida. Our award-winning team has the expertise and in-depth knowledge to build strong cases for victims of bad faith insurance claims.

CONTACT AN ATTORNEY TODAY FOR A FREE NO-OBLIGATION CONSULTATION

We offer free initial consultations in English or Spanish, and we can travel to you when you need it. Call our firm at 1-855-269-4317 today.