Tips for Filing a Hurricane Insurance Claim in Texas

When it comes to filing a claim for hurricane insurance in Texas, the process is more complicated than filing a conventional property claim. The choices you make in the first three days after a storm can have a significant impact on the amount of money you do end up recovering. Here is a thorough breakdown of what to expect.

Tip 1: Document Everything Before Making Any Repairs

Documentation is your first priority as soon as it's safe to return to your property. Take photos and videos of all the damage, and don't discard anything until the insurance adjuster gives the all-clear. Take as many thorough photos of the damage as you can safely email to your insurance provider, and fill out any necessary paperwork they send you, such as a proof of loss form. Strong context is added via a comprehensive video tutorial that describes what you see, something that photos cannot provide on their own.

Tip 2: Make Temporary Repairs — But Not Permanent Ones

It's your duty and your right to prevent additional harm to your property. Make temporary repairs to stop more damage, but wait to make permanent repairs until an adjuster inspects the damage. Keep all receipts for all interim repair expenses, board up broken windows, and cover a damaged roof with a tarp; these expenses are usually covered by your policy.

Tip 3: You May Need to File Multiple Claims

A single hurricane can generate multiple separate claims — and many Texas homeowners do not realize this until it is too late. Depending on the kind of damage your home has and where you live, you may need to file more than one insurance claim. Wind damage goes to your homeowners insurer or TWIA. Flood damage goes to your NFIP or private flood insurer. If you need to file a flood insurance claim in addition to a homeowners claim, you may need to file two separate claims with two different insurance companies.

Tip 4: Know Your Deadlines Before You Miss Them

Texas law establishes rigorous timelines that work in your favor—but only if you act. You have one year from the storm to make a claim with TWIA. If you have difficulties or complaints about a TWIA claim, you have 60 days from the date TWIA approved your claim to dispute the amount and obtain an appraisal. The Texas Prompt Payment of Claims Act requires your insurer to notice your claim within 15 calendar days and accept or deny it within 15 business days after receiving all evidence.

Tip 5: Ask About Advance Payments and Living Expenses

Many policyholders in Texas are unaware that they can make a money request prior to the full settlement of their claim. If you need assistance right away, ask about an advance payment. You should also inquire about living expenses because most policies will pay a portion of the costs if covered damage prevents you from occupying your house. Save all of your receipts for these expenses.

Tip 6: Never Let a Contractor Waive Your Deductible

Predatory contractors show up in impacted neighborhoods with illicit offers following each significant catastrophe in Texas. Contractors and roofers are prohibited by state law from offering to waive a deductible or guaranteeing a return for your deductible, and insurance companies are permitted to ask for evidence of payment, such as a receipt or canceled check. Walk away from a contractor that makes this offer, and call the Texas Department of Insurance at 800-252-3439 to report them.