First-time home buyers are sometimes nervous about buying homes in areas prone to sinkhole formation. Sinkholes are quite common in some areas, and while homes are rarely swallowed up, they are a valid concern for many. Pool damage, structural cracking and foundation issues are prevalent, and sinkhole remediation in Orlando FL can provide answers to many questions from homeowners and real estate agents.
Depressions in the Earth’s Surface
The first sign of sinkhole activity is the most readily apparent: a depression in the soil’s surface. While a concave area isn’t a reason to panic, a foundation repair expert should address it. A site visit can assess the depression’s cause, and it can give the homeowner options for remediation.
Get a CLUE Report
This security measure is often overlooked, but incredibly easy. When buying a home, the seller is legally obligated to fully disclose results of previous sinkhole investigations. A CLUE report can provide a seven-year record of a person and their property’s losses. Within the report is information such the date, policy number, claim number and insurer name associated with each loss. Customers can’t access other people’s CLUE reports; the seller must furnish the information.
Properly Interpret the Insurance Report’s Results
Sinkhole remediation companies frequently get calls from home buyers and real estate agents who need an explanation of a seller’s CLUE report. Some buyers only skim the report, and they think everything is fine because the word “sinkhole” is not present. However, if the buyer sees anything in the CLUE report that causes concern, they should get the report evaluated. It costs a bit of money upfront, but it’s worthwhile in terms of the buyer’s peace of mind.
Check for Quality Remediation
In some cases, a buyer’s chosen house has prior sinkhole issues that have been remediated. Most homes receive compact grouting or underpinning, but the home buyer should ensure that the work was done properly. Sinkhole remediation in Orlando FL was once a rapidly-growing business, and not all companies had the same high standards. Remediated homes are safe, but the buyer should ensure that the issues are permanently resolved.
Visit us to learn how a sinkhole remediation company can review certification reports and explain whether the job was done properly.