Back-to-Back Storm Damages in Texas
Texas is known for severe and unpredictable weather—tornadoes, hailstorms, hurricanes, and windstorms can strike within days of each other. When storms hit back-to-back, many homeowners worry about whether their insurance will cover multiple events in a short time frame. The good news: homeowners' insurance typically does cover back-to-back storm damage, but there are important rules, deductibles, and claim limitations to understand.
Each Storm Is Treated as a Separate Claim
Insurance companies evaluate storm damage based on the specific event that caused it. If two storms occur close together—such as a hailstorm followed by a windstorm—your insurer will treat each as a separate incident.
This means:
- You may need to file multiple claims
- Each claim triggers its own deductible
- Coverage depends on whether new damage can be distinguished from old damage
Insurance adjusters will assess the timeline and type of destruction to determine what damage belongs to which storm.
Documenting Damage Is Crucial Between Storms
Back-to-back storms can make damage identification complicated. To ensure you receive proper coverage:
- Take photos and videos immediately after the first storm
- Record roof damage, fallen limbs, broken windows, and interior leaks
- Keep receipts for temporary repairs, such as tarping the roof
- Notify your insurer right away
This documentation helps prove which storm caused specific damage, preventing denial due to confusion or insufficient evidence.
Deductibles May Apply More Than Once
In Texas, most policies include:
- A wind or hail deductible (often 1–2% of the home’s value)
- A standard all-perils deductible
If two storms are classified as separate events, you may have to meet both deductibles. This can result in higher out-of-pocket costs, even when damage is covered. Some insurers offer “calendar-year deductible” options, but these are less common in Texas.
Wear and Tear Is Not Covered
Insurance covers sudden, accidental storm damage, not long-term or neglected maintenance issues. If a second storm worsens pre-existing damage that you did not repair, an insurer may argue negligence.
For example:
- A windstorm rips shingles off
- A second storm causes water intrusion
- If repairs were not made in between, the insurer may reduce coverage
Prompt temporary repairs help protect your claim.
Conclusion
Home insurance in Texas generally covers back-to-back storm damage—but each storm is treated separately, which may require multiple claims and deductibles. Document damage, act quickly, and make temporary repairs to protect your home and your coverage.
