This paper presents a method for evaluating sinkhole potential based on eleven sinkhole characteristics that may be found during a subsurface investigation. In brief, the characteristics address the density of soil material at different depths, drilling properties, stratigraphic conditions and ground water levels. Each of the eleven-sinkhole characteristics is discussed in detail so the investigator can identify each characteristic during the subsurface investigation. Once the total number of sinkhole characteristics are identified the Sinkhole Score for the site is determined. The Sinkhole Score is the number of sinkhole characteristics found compared to the number of sinkhole characteristics possible. Also discussed is the Weighted Sinkhole Score, which is a modification to the Sinkhole Score that accounts for the importance of each characteristic. The significance of the sinkhole scoring method is discussed in determining the likelihood that a sinkhole has impacted existing construction or could impact future site development. The paper also discusses other factors that can cause sinkhole-like distress and discusses methods of detection.

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In a Florida sinkhole investigation, many people (engineers, geologists, lawyers, insurance agents, public adjusters and media) interpret weight of hammer (WH) and weight of rod (WR) as a void, and by association, a sinkhole (author is a Florida Neutral Evaluator). This causes some to allege the site contains a sinkhole damaged home-damage that is likely related to poor maintenance, construction or design issues. The concept of finding WH/WR conditions has resulted in many sinkhole investigations becoming a gamble with the homeowner or their representative wagering against the insurance company that there will be WH/WR conditions found and therefore a sinkhole present under the building likely giving the homeowner a payoff for a sinkhole. The rules for the game are mandated in Chapter §726.706 of the Florida Statute that ultimately results in who can be more successful in convincing a jury that a given set of conditions is or is not a sinkhole. Since the WH/WR conditions plays a significant role in sinkhole determinations, this paper will discuss the causes of WH/ WR conditions and its meaning in terms of stress that develops during soil sampling. It will further consider the distribution of stress and the potential for these conditions to influence a structure at the ground surface. Conversely, it will also discuss the factors necessary for these conditions to impact a structure and other conditions that can give false indications of sinkhole activity. Also provided are examples of case studies where critical subsurface conditions were resolved using considerations discussed in this manuscript.

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