Purpose
Section 627.7065(2), F.S., requires the Department of Financial Services (“DFS”) to consult with the Florida Geological Survey (“FGS”) and the Department of Environmental Protection (“DEP”) to implement a statewide electronic database of sinkholes and related activity identified in the state. Pursuant to Section 627.7065(3), F.S., the content of the database may include standards for reporting and investigating sinkholes for inclusion in the database and requirements for insurers to report the receipt of claims involving sinkhole loss and other similar activities. The DFS may require insurers to report present and past data of sinkhole claims. The database may also include information of damage due to ground settling and other subsidence activity. The DFS consulted with the FGS and the DEP to determine the form and content of the database which is set forth in the proposed rule.