We bought a house in April 2006. Prior to closing we had the home
inspected. The home was inspected March 11th. At that time, the
inspector told us that the roof was in excellent house and probably had
many years left (the house is only 5 years old). Between our
inspection and the time of closing there were hail storms in the area.
(We think they occurred the day AFTER our inspection, March 12th). We
lived in another state and knew nothing about the storms.

Now fast forward several months later. We are enjoying our new home
immensely. We have noticed all of our neighbors getting new roofs.
When we ask why they tell us that there were major hail storms that
caused some damage to their roofs. In a sense of caution we get our
roof inspected and are told that we have hail damage and need a whole
new roof which will cost over $5000. I've talked briefly with our
insurance company about the situation. They say that they probably
won't pay for the damage because we didn't own the home/have insurance
with them at the time of the damage.

Can we go back to the sellers and get their insurance to pay for a new
roof? Is this something that the sellers should have disclosed prior
to closing? Who is responsible for damage that occurs between
inspection and closing?

Thanks.