Sinkhole and ground collapse claim questions in Cantonment in Midway

If you see a sudden depression, structural movement or another unsafe condition, keep away from it and contact the appropriate local authorities or qualified professionals. Document only from a safe place. Record when cracks, gaps or ground changes appeared and preserve older inspections and photos that help show when the condition changed. Ask a qualified professional to explain which observations support a cause and what still needs investigation.

Identify the policy terms before classifying the loss

Florida Statutes section 627.706 treats catastrophic ground cover collapse and sinkhole loss as separate concepts. Check the declarations and endorsements to see how your policy addresses each. Cracking or settlement can have different causes. It is more helpful to give the insurer a timeline and professional findings than to label the damage yourself. Ask what inspections or documentation the insurer considers necessary.

Keep observations and decisions in separate records

For example, a new exterior crack and a depression in the yard should each have a location, date and safe photos. Keep any engineering report and official notices alongside the carrier’s written explanation. If questions remain about what the policy or law requires, have a qualified professional or attorney review the specific documents.

Official resource

Florida Statutes section 627.706: https://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699/0627/Sections/0627.706.html

Ask PAJOE about your claim

For a free initial claim review, call PAJOE Public Adjusters at (850) 842-6424.

Florida Public Adjusting Firm License # W894577
Joseph Whitefall | Florida Public Adjuster
Individual License # E166230

Our public adjusting fee is contingent on a recovery. Before you retain PAJOE, we explain the agreed percentage and the payments to which it applies. Fee terms are set out in our signed agreement. Any outside expenses require separate written authorization consistent with applicable Florida law.

PAJOE provides public adjusting services and does not provide legal advice. Coverage and recovery depend on the policy, the facts of the loss, and supporting evidence. No particular decision, payment, additional recovery, or resolution timeframe is guaranteed.