After Closing - Structural Issue from Water Leakage - Insurance?

Question

I closed on a house few months ago and have found out the plate, rim boards, and the part of joists (about 5~6 joists) in the front of the house are rotten. The level of the land is in a slight downward slope, which leads all water to the front of my house. Also found a small hole on the base of the front porch blocked with rocks from the previous owner.

Will this be covered by insurance? Since this damage is from a prolonged water leakage, I don't think my recent insurance will cover it. Would I be able to request the previous owner to open a case from his cancelled Traveler's policy? I heard even if the policy has been cancelled, the policy holder could open a case for the damages that has been caused in the past.

Chris Neilsen · Answer

@Lydia Kay this sounds like a maintenance issue and would not be something covered by insurance

Lydia Kay · Answer

Has anyone tried filling a claim to the seller's insurance policy of the property? The policy is cancelled, but I heard from someone that is a possible option. I'm not sure if it's worth contacting the seller to possibly opening a case or not bother them at all.

Michael Albaum · Answer

You should call and ask your agent about it. Each policy is so specific to each policy owner and property, it's tough to know which policy will cover what without getting it directly from the carrier or agent. Good luck!