Has a sinkhole damaged your home or business in Coral Springs? The destruction can severely impact your property’s safety and value. In times like these, you need strong, capable legal representation to fight the insurance companies and get a fair settlement for your sinkhole damage claim.
Tomlinson Law Group is ready to help you through this challenging time. With more than 10 years of experience and over $5.5 million recovered in successful settlements, we are committed to fighting for your rights. We know how stressful dealing with property damage can be, so let our knowledgeable team handle your sinkhole damage claim and work toward getting you fair compensation. Call us today or complete our contact form for a free consultation.
What Causes Sinkholes to Form in Coral Springs and Broward County, FL?
Unfortunately, Florida’s geology makes it uniquely prone to sinkholes. Two of the most common types of rock found in the ground throughout the state are dolomite and limestone, both of which can rapidly dissolve when rain occurs. If enough of the rock in the ground dissolves, the sediment above can collapse into a subsurface cavern and form a sinkhole. Given the intense storms Florida experiences, it’s no wonder so many sinkholes occur.
There are also some actions related to human activity that can destabilize the ground and make sinkholes more likely to form, such as:
- Construction work
- Broken or improperly maintained septic tanks
- Broken or collapsed sewage and drainage pipes
- Buried logs, trash, or other debris
- Draining water for irrigation or drinking
These factors can cause events that look like sinkholes but don’t meet the strict geological meaning of the term. These so-called subsidence events often lead insurance companies to deny property damage claims on the grounds that the damage did not result from an actual sinkhole. However, it’s vital to have an independent inspector evaluate the incident before accepting an insurance company’s decision. An experienced sinkhole damage lawyer can help you with your claim and fight back against a combative insurance company.
Common Types of Sinkhole Property Damage
Sinkholes can cause various types of damage to your home or business, which can be both costly and dangerous. Recognizing these common types of damage can help you understand the severity of the situation and the importance of seeking legal help.
- Structural Damage – Sinkholes can undermine the foundation of your home or business. Cracks in walls, floors, and ceilings are common signs. This type of damage can compromise the building’s stability and safety.
- Plumbing Issues – Sinkholes can break underground pipes, leading to leaks and water damage. This can cause additional problems like mold growth and increased water bills.
- Landscape Damage – Your yard or garden can suffer from sinkhole activity. Trees, plants, and lawns may collapse or shift, ruining your outdoor space and potentially causing further damage to your property.
- Driveway and Pavement Damage – Sinkholes can cause cracks and collapses in driveways, sidewalks, and parking lots. This damage not only looks unattractive but can also be dangerous for vehicles and pedestrians.
- Utility Disruptions – Sinkholes can damage utility lines, leading to power outages, gas leaks, and disrupted services. This can create hazardous conditions and inconvenience for property owners.
Potential Compensation from a Sinkhole Damage Claim
The compensation you can recover from a sinkhole damage claim depends on your insurance policy and other factors specific to your situation. Based on these factors, your claim could include compensation for:
- The cost of structural repairs to your home or business
- The cost to fix any plumbing or other utility issues resulting from the sinkhole
- Landscape restoration costs
- The cost of temporary living expenses if you have to leave your home while repairs take place
- The value of any lost income and related expenses while your business is closed for repairs
- The cost to repair or replace any personal property damaged by the sinkhole
Common Legal Issues with Sinkhole Damage Claims
One common issue with sinkhole damage claims is proving how the sinkhole caused the damage. Insurers may argue that pre-existing conditions or other factors are to blame, making it difficult to secure compensation.
Another challenge is interpreting policy language. Insurance policies can be complex and may have specific exclusions or conditions related to sinkhole damage. Disputes often arise over what a policy covers and what it does not.
Additionally, the process of assessing the damage and determining the cost of repairs can lead to disagreements. Insurers might undervalue the extent of the damage or the necessary repairs, resulting in lower payouts than what policyholders need to rebuild.
Having legal representation can help you address these issues and give you a stronger chance of recovering fair compensation. Tomlinson Law Group is here to advocate for your rights and guide you through the claims process.
What to Do After a Sinkhole Damages Your Home or Business
Taking the proper steps is vital for maximizing your likelihood of success in a sinkhole damage claim. Once you know everyone is safe, document the damage by taking photos and videos. This evidence will be crucial for your claim.
Next, contact your insurance company to report the sinkhole damage. Follow their instructions for filing a claim and keep records of any communication with your insurer.
It’s also crucial to avoid making any permanent repairs until an insurance adjuster has inspected the property. Temporary measures to prevent further damage are acceptable, but wait for approval before starting major repairs.
Finally, consult a lawyer with experience handling sinkhole damage claims. Legal guidance can help you deal with the details of your claim and give you a better chance of recovering maximum compensation.
Contact Our Coral Springs and Broward County, FL, Sinkhole Damage Lawyers Now
If your home or business has sustained damage from a sinkhole, Tomlinson Law Group can help. We can review your policy to ensure you understand its terms, assess all the damage from the sinkhole to maximize your claim’s value, and handle all communication and negotiations with your insurer. If necessary, we will gladly represent you in any necessary court proceedings.
Remember, Florida law requires you to file a sinkhole damage claim within two years of when you knew or reasonably should have known about the damage. Don’t wait to protect your rights. Call Tomlinson Legal Group now or reach out online for a free case review.
