John R. Wood Properties
Barry Dunleavy, John R. Wood PropertiesPhone: (239) 877-6445
Email: [email protected]

Landslide Damage on Your Property: What to Look For

by Barry Dunleavy 05/19/2024

Landslides can occur almost anywhere, but it can be difficult to know exactly where they have happened in the past. By recognizing the signs of landslide activity on yours or a neighbor's property, you can learn more about the risks and avoid potential issues. Here are some of the ways you can recognize whether your property has been damaged by a landslide:

Signs in the Structure

Here are some things to check for on or around the structure of your home:

  • Cracks in the pavement and foundation can be a sign of prior landslide activity. If you notice cracks in your foundation, it's a good idea to have a professional inspection to assess the scope of the damage.
  • If the chimney is cracked or tilted, it may have been shaken by a landslide in the past. Check for signs both through your fireplace and by inspecting the outside of the chimney.
  • Do you have sticky doors or windows? While moisture levels are a common cause of minor door and window jams, this can also be a clue pointing to landslide activity. Make a note of any doors or windows that stick when you open or close them to pinpoint areas of the property that may have been affected.

Signs in the Landscape

There are several ways you can check for landslide activity outside your home, including:

  • Leaning fences and retaining walls can be a sign of a landslide, as the ground shifting underneath can cause them to loosen and tilt.
  • Check the area for any trees or utility poles that are leaning at an angle rather than sticking straight up. While not every tree grows perfectly straight, a significant tilt can be a sign of landslide activity.
  • Examine the base of any slopes on your property. If you notice the ground bulging out at the base of a slope, it can be a sign of the land shift and landslide risk.

Individually, many of these things are either cosmetic issues or minor inconveniences. However, if you notice more than one of these signs on your property, it may be worth consulting a professional. The more awareness you have about landslide activity, the better prepared you'll be to deal with issues that may arise.

About the Author
Author

Barry Dunleavy

Over 25 Years in the Real Estate Industry. Former Senior Managing Director with responsibility for oversight of real estate businesses in Canada and Latin America including CEO of Canadian-based bank; prior to that Sr. Managing Director Construction Financing to large residential builders throughout the USA. He has a BA and MBA in Finance. Memberships include the Naples Board of Realtors, Graduate Realtors Institute, Institute for Luxury Home Marketing, Florida Realtors, and the National Association of Realtors. Community activities include New Horizons of Southwest Florida volunteer teaching math and reading to at-risk 3rd to 5th graders while being Chair of their 2016-2018 Golf Event and also involved with the Christian Businessmen's Connection. 2014 Awarded the Distinguished Volunteer for Collier County. He was a former Board of Governors of Hazeltine National Golf Club, host of the upcoming 2016 Ryder Cup Championship.