claim was denied

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claim was denied

bought a home a year ago. The foundation is crumbling away. Insurance company
won’t cover it under sinking, shrinking clause, leaving me to foot the bill. Home
is 60 years old.

Asked on April 1, 2017 under Real Estate Law, Pennsylvania

Answers:

SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 6 years ago | Contributor

Most likely the insurer does not need to pay out on this claim: generally, insurance is for sudden events causing damage (like a nearby explosion or collision, the force of which damaged the foundation), not for the incremental effects of subsidience, wear and tear, erosision, shifting soil, etc. over years. While you could bring the policy to an attorney to review your exact coverage and exclusions with you, it is very likely this is not covered.
If the seller knew of the problem but hid it from you (you'd have to be able to show in court that he did know or logically, given the facts, *must* have known) AND the problem was not one you or a home inspector could have reasonably seem for yourself prior to closing (since you cannot rely on--and therefore hold someone accountable for--misrepresentations if you could see the true state of affairs or facts for yourself), then he may have committed fraud. If he committed fraud by not disclosing a material important condition known to him, you may be able to sue for compensation, such as the cost to repair. If you feel this could be the case, consult with an attorney to explore your options.


IMPORTANT NOTICE: The Answer(s) provided above are for general information only. The attorney providing the answer was not serving as the attorney for the person submitting the question or in any attorney-client relationship with such person. Laws may vary from state to state, and sometimes change. Tiny variations in the facts, or a fact not set forth in a question, often can change a legal outcome or an attorney's conclusion. Although AttorneyPages.com has verified the attorney was admitted to practice law in at least one jurisdiction, he or she may not be authorized to practice law in the jurisdiction referred to in the question, nor is he or she necessarily experienced in the area of the law involved. Unlike the information in the Answer(s) above, upon which you should NOT rely, for personal advice you can rely upon we suggest you retain an attorney to represent you.

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