About Sinkholes

So what are sinkholes?

Simply put, sinkholes are part of the slow, natural process of erosion in Florida's limestone terrain that occurs over thousands of years. These common geologic phenomena generally occur where the limestone is within a few hundred feet of the land's surface.

Sinkholes can also be thought of as depressions or holes in the land surface. They can be shallow or deep, small or large, but all are a result of the underlying limestone dissolving.

Lack of rainfall, lowered water levels, or excessive rainfall in a short period of time are all possible contributors to sinkhole development.

Sinkhole warning signs

There are several warning signs that a sinkhole is developing beneath the surface of your home.

  • Previously buried parts of foundations and trees become exposed because of sinking ground.
  • Doors and windows that fail to close properly
  • Cracks in walls, floors, pavement and ground surface
  • Small ponds of rainfall forming where water has not collected before
  • Deep cracks and the separation of paved concrete walks and drives
  • Deep, narrow and vertical holes that do not have sloping sides
  • Sinkhole activity on a neighbor's property

If you notice any of these signs, you should immediately contact your insurance company to have an adjuster determine if there is a possibility of sinkhole activity on your property.