LEARN THESE TERMS
Subsidence: Motion of ground as it settles, moves or sinks, typically downward or laterally
Sink Hole: A sudden or gradual ground depression caused by dissolution of soil
Erosion: The dissolution of rock or earth by wind, water, or earth movement
REMEMBER
- Subsidence can be caused by ground movement, hot or cold weather, water erosion, tree roots, or seismic activity
- Seeing cracks in your walls or pavement does not necessarily indicate subsidence
- Cracks that appear, worsen or spread suddenly could be cause for concern
- Doors and windows that suddenly “stick” when attempting to open or close them are another cause for concern
- Maintaining trees and shrubs is a good way to avoid water erosion, consult a surveyor about proper selection and placement of trees
IF YOUR FACILITY HAS SUDDEN WORSENING CRACKS IN GROUND OR WALLS
- Contact a surveyor, geologist, engineer to assess the possibility of serious subsidence
- Work with those professionals to shore up ground stability
- Notify your insurance company, bearing in mind most policies exclude this type of incident under normal circumstances
IF YOUR FACILITY SUFFERS SUDDEN SEVERE SUBSIDENCE OR SINK HOLES
- Evacuate the facility and get to ground that appears to be free of cracks or movement
- Do not return until your facility is deemed to be safe by a surveyor, geologist, or emergency services personnel
- Follow the advice of contractors, surveyors and engineers to assess the best options for your facility
