I’m feeling overwhelmed right now. My father recently passed away, leaving no will behind. As his only child, I’m struggling with the situation, especially since I moved out a few years ago and my mom continued to live in the house with him, despite their divorce. I never probated the house or transferred it into my name, which may complicate things if I need to file a claim with State Farm in the future.
The condition of the house has significantly deteriorated since my dad’s passing. Before he died, it was already in rough shape, with uneven floors and an overflowing upstairs toilet that caused a chandelier in the kitchen to fall. Although my dad did file a claim with State Farm once in the past 20 years to have new carpet installed, that didn’t address the root issues. Now, there are holes in the ceiling, walls, and floors, and we’ve got a rat problem—it’s unsettling to hear them scratching inside the walls. The back deck is also detached from the house and falling apart.
I really feel for my mom, but I’m not sure where to begin with addressing these issues or whom to contact for help. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Edit: I suspect that the holes and floor issues might be caused by some sort of leak, possibly underneath the house, but I’m not certain. I realize that insurance won’t cover pest problems, but I’m curious if the other damage could be claimed if it turns out to be related to a leak. Any information would be helpful. Thank you!
I’m really sorry to hear about your father’s passing. It sounds like you’re dealing with a lot right now, especially with managing the house situation and your mom’s well-being.
First, it’s important to clarify the next steps regarding the property. Since your father passed away without a will, you may need to consult with a probate attorney to navigate the process of transferring ownership or addressing any potential claims or liabilities. They can help you understand your rights as the only child and any implications this might have for the property and insurance.
Regarding the condition of the house, it sounds like there are several issues that could stem from underlying problems like leaks, which can happen with plumbing or roofing. If you suspect that these issues are due to such problems, it’s worth getting a professional inspection to assess the house’s condition thoroughly. Addressing the root cause is crucial before making cosmetic repairs, as it could prevent further damage down the line.
As for filing an insurance claim with State Farm, you may have grounds to file, particularly if there is evidence of damage from a leak or other covered peril. Gathering documentation—like photos of the damage, records of any previous claims, and any assessments from contractors—will strengthen your case. It’s also a good idea to review the insurance policy or consult directly with State Farm to clarify what types of damage are covered.
While insurance may not cover pest issues like rats, addressing the structural problems might be a separate matter. If repairs are substantial, you might also explore local assistance programs that help homeowners with significant repairs, or reach out to community resources for additional support.
It’s a tough situation, but taking it step by step can help you find a path forward. Don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals who can provide specific advice based on your circumstances. Wishing you the best as you navigate this challenging time.