When powerful storms strike the great state of Texas, they often leave a trail of destruction in their wake.
With the state’s susceptibility to extreme weather events such as tornadoes, hurricanes, and thunderstorms, countless homes and businesses can suffer from significant damage.
In these trying times, many property owners are left grappling with the daunting task of claiming compensation from their insurance companies.
This is where the expertise of specialized lawyers who understand property insurance comes into play.
With free consultations, Florin|Roebig can help people in Houston, Dallas, Mcallen, and other parts of Texas get compensation from storm damage claims.
Compensation Options For Texas Home Storm Damage
When a storm wreaks havoc on Texas homes, it is essential for homeowners to be aware of their compensation options to recover from the resulting damages.
From insurance claims to disaster assistance programs, there are several avenues to pursue compensation that can help Texans rebuild their lives.
Homeowners Insurance Claims
The first step after a storm causes damage to your home is to review your homeowners insurance policy.
Policies typically cover wind, hail, and other storm-related damages, but it is crucial to understand the specific details of your coverage, deductibles, and any exclusions that may apply.
Windstorm Insurance
For those living in hurricane-susceptible parts of Texas, obtaining windstorm insurance through the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA) is crucial.
If your property has sustained windstorm damage, file a claim with TWIA following the same process as with your homeowners insurance.
Flood Insurance
Standard homeowners insurance policies typically do not cover flood damage.
To protect your property from flood-related losses, consider purchasing a separate policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
If a storm has caused flooding and subsequent damage to your home, file a claim with the NFIP.
Federal Disaster Assistance
When the President declares a major disaster in Texas, federal assistance programs become available to affected homeowners.
These programs, administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), can provide grants for temporary housing, home repairs, and other needs.
Small Business Administration (SBA) Loans
Homeowners affected by a disaster can also apply for low-interest loans from the SBA to repair or replace damaged property.
While these loans are primarily intended for businesses, they are also available to homeowners and renters who meet the eligibility criteria.
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Types Of Damage Caused By Texas Storms
While hail damage is a significant concern for Texas property owners, it is only one aspect of the destruction that can be brought on by severe weather events.
In addition to hail damage claims in Texas, homeowners and business owners in the state may file insurance claims for the following types of storm damage.
Wind Damage
Wind damage is a common and costly consequence of storms in Texas.
High winds can cause extensive destruction to properties, ripping off roofs, shattering windows, and toppling trees onto homes and vehicles.
Tornadoes
Tornadoes are a regular occurrence in Texas, particularly during the spring and early summer months.
These violent rotating columns of air can cause widespread devastation, demolishing entire neighborhoods and leaving communities reeling from the aftermath.
These storms can result in a range of damages, from uprooted trees and power outages to the complete destruction of homes and buildings.
Flooding
Heavy rainfall and flash flooding from severe storms can cause significant damage to homes and infrastructure during a storm.
Floodwaters can infiltrate homes, causing structural deterioration, mold growth, and damage to personal belongings.
It is essential to take prompt action to mitigate flood damage by extracting water, drying the affected areas, and conducting necessary repairs.
Lightning Strikes
Lightning is another dangerous component of Texas storms, capable of causing fires and extensive property damage.
Lightning strikes can result in structural damage to homes, destroy electrical systems, and pose a threat to the safety of residents.
Debris Impact
Storms often generate large amounts of debris, such as fallen trees, branches, and various materials torn from buildings, resulting in further damage.
This debris can be propelled by strong winds, causing significant damage to homes, vehicles, and other structures.
Steps To Take After Storm Damage To Your Texas Home
Storms can cause serious damage to Texas homes and properties.
As such, it is crucial to follow these steps to best assess and document potential damage, perform brief repairs, and prepare yourself to file a storm or wind damage claim.
1. Record The Damage
Take photos and videos of the affected areas, capturing details like dents in shingles, water damage, and broken windows.
2. Make Temporary Business Or Home Repairs
Implement temporary fixes, such as boarding up windows and covering damaged roofs with tarps, to prevent further damage.
3. Review Your Business Or Homeowners Insurance Coverage
Assess your insurance policy to understand the extent of coverage available for policyholders and any exclusions.
4. File A Storm Damage Insurance Claim
Report the damage to your insurance company as soon as possible, providing the necessary documentation and evidence.
5. Seek A Third-Party Estimate For Damage
Obtain an independent estimate from a reputable contractor to ensure an accurate assessment of the damages, including shingles, water damage, and dents.
6. Hire A Wind Damage Attorney
Enlist the help of experienced insurance claims lawyers to navigate the insurance claims process. Lawyers can also ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve as a policyholder.
What To Do If Your Storm Damage Claim Is Denied
If your storm damage claim is denied by your insurance company, it’s essential to take action to contest the decision and protect your rights as a policyholder.
Start by carefully reviewing the denial letter to understand the reasons for rejection and ensure they align with your policy’s terms and conditions. For example, claims may be denied if premiums are unpaid or if deductibles have not been met.
Gather all relevant documentation, including photos, videos, repair estimates, and communication with insurance adjusters, to support your claim.
Then, contact your insurance company to request a re-evaluation of your claim, providing any additional evidence and information to address the reasons for denial.
If your claim is still denied or you suspect bad faith on the part of the insurance company, consult a reputable law firm specializing in storm damage claims.
When Should You Hire A Texas Storm Lawyer?
Engaging an experienced storm lawyer is essential when dealing with complex claims or when facing denied, delayed, or lowball settlement offers from insurance companies.
Hiring a storm lawyer early in the process helps safeguard your interests, expedite the claim process, and improves the likelihood of securing the compensation you deserve.
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Find A Qualified Texas Wind and Hail Damage Attorney
Don’t let insurance battles add to the stress caused by storm damage in Texas.
If you’re facing difficulties with your insurance company after a severe weather event, the experienced attorneys at Florin|Roebig are here to help. We have helped many clients across the nation get the compensation they deserve in the wake of a natural disaster, with $1 billion in case awards to date.
Contact us for a free case evaluation and to determine the best course of action to secure the compensation you deserve.
Texas Storm Damage Lawyer FAQs
How long do you have to file a property damage claim in Texas?
You have up to two years from the date of damage to file a property damage claim in Texas.
How long does an insurance company have to settle a homeowners claim in Texas?
Insurance companies typically have 15 days to acknowledge a claim, 15 days to make a decision, and 5 days to issue payment once a settlement is agreed upon.If your claim was underpaid, ignored, or drawn out well beyond the required dates, it may be time to connect with skill insurance claim lawyers.
Do you need a lawyer to file a storm damage claim in Texas?
While it’s not mandatory to hire a lawyer for a storm damage claim, an experienced attorney can help navigate complex cases and secure fair compensation.
