What Happens During A Tornado Insurance Inspection?
Why an Inspection Is Necessary
After a tornado damages property, insurance companies typically schedule an inspection to assess the extent of the loss. In the state of Texas, tornado damage is usually covered under the windstorm portion of a homeowner's insurance policy. The inspection allows the insurer to verify that the damage was caused by the storm and determine how much the claim may be worth.
A claims adjuster or inspector is usually assigned to visit the property and evaluate the visible damage.
Exterior Property Inspection
The first step in a tornado insurance inspection typically involves examining the outside of the home. The adjuster will look for structural damage caused by strong winds or flying debris.
Common areas inspected include:
- Roof shingles, flashing, and vents
- Gutters and downspouts
- Exterior siding or brick
- Windows and doors
- Fences, garages, and other structures
The adjuster may also take photographs, measurements, and notes to document the damage. This information is used to create a repair estimate.
Interior Damage Assessment
If the tornado caused damage that allowed water or debris into the home, the adjuster may also inspect the interior. Tornadoes can lead to roof leaks, broken windows, and structural damage that affects the inside of the property.
The inspector may examine:
- Ceilings and walls for water damage
- Flooring and carpets
- Electrical systems or appliances
- Personal property that was damaged by the storm
Documentation of interior damage helps determine whether additional repairs or replacements are necessary.
Reviewing Documentation With the Homeowner
During the inspection, the adjuster may ask the homeowner questions about when the damage occurred and whether temporary repairs were made. Homeowners should provide any photos, videos, or repair estimates they collected after the tornado.
This documentation can help confirm the timeline of the damage and support the insurance claim.
What Happens After the Inspection
Once the inspection is complete, the adjuster prepares a report and repair estimate for the insurance company. The insurer then reviews the findings to determine whether the claim will be approved and how much compensation may be offered.
If the homeowner disagrees with the estimate, they may request a second inspection or provide additional documentation to challenge the assessment.
