Filing a Wind Damage Claim in Texas

Understanding Texas Wind Coverage Requirements

Texas law requires all homeowners insurance policies to include wind and hail coverage, making it easier to file wind damage claims compared to other states. However, coastal counties may require separate windstorm coverage through the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA) if you're in the catastrophe area along the Gulf Coast. Check your policy to determine whether you have standard homeowners coverage or TWIA coverage, as the claim processes differ slightly.

Texas also has specific regulations regarding wind damage claims, including requirements for insurers to acknowledge claims within 15 days and begin investigations promptly. These consumer protections work in your favor when filing wind damage claims.

Immediate Steps After Wind Damage

Document all damage immediately with photos and videos, focusing on roof damage, broken windows, damaged siding, and any debris. Texas wind events often involve multiple perils, so photograph damage that could be attributed to wind, hail, or flying debris separately. Save weather reports from the National Weather Service showing wind speeds during the storm, as this documentation proves the severity of the weather event.

Secure your property to prevent further damage by covering broken windows and damaged roofing, but avoid permanent repairs until after the adjuster inspection. Keep all receipts for emergency materials and temporary repairs, as Texas law requires insurers to reimburse reasonable emergency repair costs.

Filing Your Claim in Texas

Contact your insurance company within 30 days, though sooner is better. Texas insurers must acknowledge your claim within 15 days and begin an investigation within 30 days. If you have TWIA coverage, file through their specific portal or hotline, as they operate independently from private insurers.

When reporting your claim, specify that damage resulted from wind and provide specific details about wind speeds if available. Texas insurers sometimes scrutinize wind vs. flood damage claims, so clear documentation of wind-caused damage is crucial.

Working with Adjusters and Texas Regulations

Texas law requires insurers to conduct reasonable investigations and provide written explanations for claim denials. If your adjuster underestimates the damage, you can request a re-inspection or hire an independent adjuster. The state requires insurers to pay claims within five business days after reaching an agreement on settlement amounts.

Texas also has a "prompt payment" law requiring insurers to pay claims within specific timeframes or face penalty interest charges. If your claim involves disputes over wind vs. flood damage, document wind direction and debris patterns to support your wind damage claim.

Texas-Specific Resources

Consider consulting with a Texas public adjuster licensed by the Texas Department of Insurance if you face claim disputes. The Texas Department of Insurance offers consumer complaint processes for claim handling issues. For TWIA claims, specific appeal processes exist through their organization, with additional oversight from state regulators ensuring fair claim handling.