An engineer was investigating whether a homeowner’s insurance policy would cover damages to their property due to a sinkhole. To provide confident detection of potential subsurface features and properties associated with the sinkholes, RETTEW applied several complementary geophysical techniques.

We used microgravity mapping to detect and delineate soil cavities or zones of low-density soils. We conducted spontaneous potential mapping to locate the minute electrical currents commonly associated with concentrated subsurface water movement, like seepage. We performed seismic refraction services to provide information on rock depth necessary for proper interpretation of the gravity data, and ground penetrating radar to detect and mark underground utilities that might be encountered during site remediation.

RETTEW recommended the existing subsidence be addressed, in any fashion deemed suitable and cost-effective, by a qualified geotechnical engineer or engineering geologist. To prevent future subsidence, stormwater was rerouted to avoid concentrated infiltration in the areas of concern that were highlighted by the geophysical survey at this residence.