There has been recent posts and news articles about problems of sinkholes appearing in Florida. Although Central Florida is commonly referred to as “sinkhole valley,” we see our share here in South Florida.
Sinkholes are naturally formed in the ground from drastic changes in weather, leaks, well drilling, blasting for construction and other drastic situations like hurricanes. A heavy rainfall followed by a drought and another heavy rainfall can cause the land to crack and the rainfall to be absorbed in one area rather than evenly spread. The stream of water creates shifts in the layers of the earth which bring into existence unstable foundations for the structures that sit on them. A structure will show signs of structural damage long before it is swallowed by a sinkhole.
Examples of signs of a sinkhole start with structural damage; for example cracks that begin to show up on the exterior walls. Often these cracks are in a step shape, or are particularly thick. Signs of the walls or floor not being level are other signs.
If you witness any of these signs do not hesitate to call Century Public Adjusters for a consultation.