Houston Hurricane Insurance Lawyer

Protecting Your Rights After a Storm-Related Loss

Located near the Gulf of Mexico, Houston faces the threat of devastating hurricanes every year. Although 2015 was a relatively mild hurricane season, many meteorologists and weather experts predicted that 2016 could be more severe than average. Homeowners in Texas who previously did not have insurance coverage for hurricane-related damage are now securing it. While this coverage should resolve most concerns, insurance companies often complicate the claims process.

Many insurance providers have gained a reputation for minimizing payouts to homeowners filing hurricane insurance claims. At Dick Law Firm, PLLC, I cannot stand by while a homeowner is denied the compensation they need and deserve by a powerful insurance corporation. With experience handling well over 1,000 cases, clients can feel confident knowing that a committed Houston insurance bad faith lawyer is advocating on their behalf.

Feeling forgotten by your insurance provider? Dial (832) 529-9377 to speak with experienced hurricane insurance attorney Eric Dick in Houston now.

Steps to File Your Hurricane Damage Claim

The destruction a hurricane leaves behind can be catastrophic, sometimes leveling homes as winds over 150 miles per hour sweep through the area. Depending on your home’s construction and location, damages could vary widely. Insurance providers may try to limit payouts by arguing that certain reported damages were not directly caused by the hurricane.

Look for and catalog any damage caused by a hurricane, including:

• Flood damage (broken pipes)
• Sheared roofing and tiling
• Shattered windows
• Removed sections of framework

Hurricane season in Texas typically runs from June 1^st to November 30^th. Take photographs of your home in spring or early summer to document its condition before severe storms reach Houston. If you do not have hurricane coverage, purchase it before a storm forms in the Gulf of Mexico. Insurance companies may decline new or expanded coverage when a hurricane system is active or threats are imminent.

Pay attention to communications from the Texas Department of Insurance during hurricane season, as they may issue updates regarding claim deadlines or consumer protections specific to major disasters. These notices can affect how quickly you must report damage or qualify for special assistance, particularly after high-profile events like Hurricane Harvey or Hurricane Ike.

Common Reasons Insurance Companies Deny Hurricane Claims in Houston

Insurance companies may deny hurricane damage claims by arguing that the loss was caused by something your policy excludes, such as flooding instead of wind damage. 

Other common reasons for denied or underpaid claims include:

• Disputes over the cause or extent of damage
• Claims that the homeowner did not prevent further property damage
• Late reporting of the claim
• Insurer estimates that undervalue repair costs

Allowing a hurricane insurance attorney in Houston to review your policy language, document damage, and keep records of all communications can help protect your ability to challenge an unfair denial.

What to Do If Your Hurricane Insurance Claim Is Denied

A denied hurricane insurance claim does not always mean you are out of options. Start by reviewing your denial letter and policy to understand why the insurer rejected your claim. Keep copies of all claim documents, repair estimates, and communications with your insurance company.

You may also consider:

• Obtaining an independent damage assessment
• Gathering additional evidence supporting your claim
• Reviewing applicable Texas claim deadlines and protections

Taking action quickly can help you preserve your rights and determine the best way to pursue the compensation you need. Reach out to a qualified hurricane insurance lawyer in Houston right away.

How a Hurricane Insurance Lawyer in Houston Can Help After a Denied Claim

A hurricane insurance lawyer can help you evaluate whether your insurer handled your claim properly and whether the denial should be challenged. An attorney can review your policy, claim file, and supporting evidence to identify potential issues with the insurer’s decision.

Legal guidance may help you:

• Understand your coverage and options
• Challenge improper claim denials or delays
• Communicate with the insurance company during disputes
• Pursue a fair resolution when negotiations fail

Having experienced representation can help protect your interests when dealing with a complex hurricane insurance dispute.

How to Fight Bad Faith Insurance Practices

No matter how much preparation you did or did not do before your home was damaged by a hurricane, it should be irrelevant to the coverage amounts you are granted if you have homeowner’s insurance that covers hurricane damage. Imagine if you bought a car, but the dealership only allowed you to drive it when they thought it was necessary. You would not allow such an outrage, so why allow it now?

Contact us now for help from a qualified hurricane insurance lawyer in Houston handling denied hurricane claims.

FAQs

What is the difference between hurricane and flood insurance in Texas?

Texas insurance policies often treat hurricane and flood damage as two separate risks. Most homeowners’ insurance policies cover wind damage from hurricanes but exclude flooding caused by rising water. To obtain flood coverage, homeowners usually need a separate policy through the National Flood Insurance Program for flood losses.

How long do I have to file a hurricane damage claim in Houston?

Deadlines vary by insurance policy, but Texas law generally requires prompt notice after you discover damage. Some policies require you to file claims within one year of the loss. Check your policy and contact your insurer to confirm your specific deadline.

Can I reopen a previously denied hurricane claim in Texas?

In some circumstances, yes. If you find new evidence or repairs reveal hidden damage, you can present this information to your insurer to have your claim reconsidered. Texas law may permit appeals if you provide additional documentation for your case. Always save documents and correspondence related to your original claim.

Get your free case evaluation from our Houston insurance bad faith lawyer today and start hitting back on challenging unfair claim decisions.