If you live in Florida, then you must have experienced a sinkhole at least once in your life. The state of Florida is infamous for sinkholes. They may rarely happen in other states, but they are a common occurrence in Florida. This is why people in Florida get themselves sinkhole insurance in Lake Hamilton, Florida, to protect their property and assets.
Sinkholes can occur anytime and anywhere. Some areas are more prone to the occurrence of sinkholes. However, you cannot really predict whether a sinkhole exists on property in Florida or not. We have seen numerous instances where sinkholes developed in areas that were considered safe.
This is why sinkhole insurance in Lake Hamilton, Florida, and other cities of Florida is very common. People want to protect their properties and assets against the damages caused by sinkholes. Your home is the biggest investment you make in your life. You cannot risk it being swallowed by a sinkhole. A sinkhole doesn’t spare any part of your property and may engulf it completely. It becomes difficult to manage the financial burden that comes with the destruction caused by sinkholes. Therefore, it is best to get insurance to protect yourself against any such damages.
There are some warning signs that can help you detect imminent sinkhole collapse. Look for these signs, especially if you live in Florida as the state is more susceptible to sinkholes.
Warning Signs of Potential Sinkholes in Lake Hamilton, Florida
Here are the warning signs that can help you in the early detection of sinkholes. This will help you take the necessary actions to keep yourself and your family safe and sound. It will also give you time to take your assets and belongings to a safe place and will also help you take necessary help from the concerned authorities.
1. Windows, Cabinet and Door Issues
Houses tend to settle over the years. If you are moving to an old property or even a house that was built a decade ago, you will notice some wear and tear. This is normal. A little unevenness here and there doesn’t always point towards a potential sinkhole occurrence. However, sinkholes also come with subtle warning signs. Therefore, if you notice any of these signs, then you should get your property checked and evaluated.
One of the most common warning signs of sinkhole occurrence at your property is the jamming of your doors. You will also notice that the doors stop latching altogether. You will also find it hard to open windows. Another warning sign of potential sinkholes on your property is that the cabinet drawers and doors will not open or close properly. They will also sit unevenly and you will find it difficult to open or close them.
2. Cracks in the Walls
Do you notice cracks in different walls of your house? It can be a sign of a potential sinkhole. It is best to get sinkhole insurance in Lake Hamilton, Florida, in case you notice any such signs.
Cracks in sinkhole prone properties are common around windows and doors. You will also notice their appearance in the areas where the ceiling meets the walls. In addition to cracks in the walls, you will also notice cracks appearing in laminate, tile grout, tile flooring or linoleum that is laid over concrete.
If you notice the appearance of any new or growing cracks, then it is best to get your property inspected from the concerned authorities. This will help you determine if your property is really at risk of a sinkhole formation and whether you should get sinkhole insurance in Lake Hamilton, Florida.
3. Slanted Floors and Separating Walls
Another warning sign of potential sinkholes at your property is slanted floors and separating walls. Do you notice separation or gaps in the ceiling and walls? These signs indicate the formation of a sinkhole. Another warning sign of a potential sinkhole is the pulling away of molding or trim. Do you feel that your house is slanted? Do you see bulging floors, sagging or warping at your property? If yes, then it is time to call a professional to evaluate your house. You should also get sinkhole insurance in Lake Hamilton, Florida, in such cases as the damage caused will be huge if a sinkhole actually forms on your property.
4. Water Signs
Do you notice an abnormally strong earthy smell when it rains?
If yes, then it can also be an indication of a potential sinkhole. Flooding, leaks or a wet crawl during the rainy season is a clear indication that there are some foundation problems. Call experts to check your house.
Another warning sign of a potential sinkhole is the sudden clouding of water in the well if you have one. Check your well or underground tank regularly. If you notice cloudy water or debris in the water, it can be a sign of a potential sinkhole.
It is also important to get your property inspected by professionals regularly. If you are moving to a new house, have it inspected before you move in. Professionals will look for any warning signs for sinkholes and will inform you about it. Even if there aren’t any warning signs yet at your property, they may appear later on. If the area has experienced sinkholes before, then it is imminent that you get yourself sinkhole insurance in Lake Hamilton, Florida. This will protect you even in the worst-case scenario.
You must choose a reliable and reputable insurance firm for your sinkhole insurance. Make sure you read the terms and conditions carefully before you sign anything. Discuss all the questions you may have in mind with the insurance company before picking out any plan. This will help you make an informed decision.
5. Changes in the Landscape of Your Yard
A very prominent sign of sinkhole formation underneath your property is a change in the landscape of your yard. Do you notice that the trees and the fence post in your yard are sagging? If yes, then take a look at the ground near these trees. Is there fresh exposure where the ground seems to have sunk?
Another sign to look for is the formation of new ponds or puddles of water in your yard. If water never used to collect in these spots before, then it indicates that the ground is sinking slowly. Similarly, if there was an existing pond, but it suddenly drains, then that is also a matter of concern. It is best to call a professional to figure out the reason behind this. You may also consider getting sinkhole insurance in Lake Hamilton, Florida, to make sure you are protected against all the financial damages that may be caused in case of a sinkhole formation.
6. Cracks in Concrete or Pavements
Take a walk around your neighborhood and look for signs of potential sinkholes. Are there any areas that seem to be buckling or sinking? Are there any new cracks appearing in the sidewalks or driveways? Are the already present cracks widening?
If you notice any of these signs, then it indicates a risk of a potential sinkhole. You must get your property checked by a professional to ensure that you are not taken by a surprise when a sinkhole forms at your property.
In addition to checking the concrete floors and driveways, also take a look at your chimneys and porches. Do you notice that they are leaning or cracked? If they are, then it is an indication of a possible sinkhole. There may also be issues with the foundation of your house, which are causing these problems. Call in the experts to check your property and get sinkhole insurance in Lake Hamilton, Florida.
Why Should You Get Sinkhole Insurance in Lake Hamilton, Florida?
As mentioned before, Florida is a high-risk state when it comes to the formation of sinkholes. If you live in Florida, then you must consider getting sinkhole insurance. It will protect you against the damages that are caused to your property in case a sinkhole forms. The financial losses you will have to bear with no insurance are hard to pay off. You may even have to rebuild your entire property from scratch. Therefore, it is best to have a safety net to protect you in case a disaster strikes.
It is important to note that sinkhole insurance in Lake Hamilton, Florida, is not included in the normal home insurance you get in the state. You have to ask specifically for sinkhole insurance and will have to pay a premium besides normal home insurance. But paying extra is totally worth it. It will help you bear the cost of repairs and replacement.
Remember, a sinkhole can appear anywhere and at any time in the state of Florida. You must keep yourself protected by getting sinkhole insurance in Lake Hamilton, Florida.
For any insurance needs you may have, please call us at 407-344-1228 or email us at [email protected].