Jimi was recently featured on WFMZ discussing the ongoing sinkhole repairs in Phillipsburg and what many homeowners across the Lehigh Valley don’t realize:
You may not be covered for this type of damage.
The recent ground collapse across the river has disrupted roads, required major repairs, and raised serious concerns about underground conditions in our region. While municipalities work to fix infrastructure, homeowners are left with an important question:
If that happened on your property — would your insurance respond?
Watch the clip and read the article here!
This Isn’t a Distant Risk
Sinkholes aren’t just something you see on the news in other states. Parts of eastern Pennsylvania and western New Jersey sit on limestone and other formations that can create underground voids over time. Add heavy rain, aging utilities, and freeze-thaw cycles, and the risk becomes very real.
The Phillipsburg situation is a reminder that ground movement can happen suddenly — and close to home.
The Coverage Most People Assume They Have
Here’s the part that surprises people.
Many standard homeowners insurance policies exclude earth movement. That category can include sinkholes, ground collapse, soil shifting, and related structural damage.
Some policies include very limited language for “catastrophic ground collapse,” but the definition is narrow and doesn’t apply in every situation. Gradual foundation damage? Often excluded. Structural settling tied to soil conditions? Frequently excluded.
The bottom line:
Most homeowners don’t know what their policy says until they file a claim.
That’s not when you want to find out.
Why This Conversation Matters
Structural damage from a sinkhole can be severe — cracked foundations, shifting walls, compromised utilities. Repairs can quickly climb into six figures.
Without the proper endorsement or additional coverage in place, that financial burden can fall entirely on the homeowner.
That’s why Jimi’s message on WFMZ was simple:
Review your coverage now — not after something happens.
What You Should Do
Instead of assuming you’re covered, take a proactive approach:
- Review your homeowner’s policy for earth movement exclusions
- Ask whether sinkhole or ground collapse endorsements are available
- Understand your deductible and structural limits
- Pay attention to early warning signs around your home
Insurance policies are detailed documents. Exclusions are often buried in the fine print. A quick review today can prevent a major surprise tomorrow.
Don’t Guess — Know
The Phillipsburg sinkholes are making headlines. But the bigger story is awareness.
If you own a home in the Lehigh Valley, now is a good time to ask:
Do I actually know what my policy covers?
If you’re unsure, our team is here to help you review it and make sure you’re properly protected.
Because when it comes to ground movement, assumptions can be expensive.
