What Factors Can Affect A Hurricane Insurance Payout in Texas

Houston, TX – Hurricanes and tropical storms are common natural disasters in Texas. While we’re still in the middle of winter, you may want to review your storm coverage to be prepared for the Atlantic hurricane season. In the Texas area, the hurricane season starts June 1 and ends November 30, with peak activity from mid-August through September. Texas ranks 3rd in storm surge risk thanks to its location along the Gulf of Mexico and, unfortunately, this type of peril is not covered by standard homeowners insurance.

Understanding how insurance claims work in Texas can save you a lot of trouble come next fall. Keep in mind that if your insurance claim is denied, you may end up paying out of pocket to repair your home. Experienced Texas homeowners insurance claim lawyers say that the main reason a claim may be denied is lack of coverage.

Protect your house against hurricanes

This does not refer to the simple measures homeowners are required to take when forecasters predict a tropical storm will hit Texas. This is about choosing the right type of insurance that will protect your home.

Tropical storms and named hurricanes create high winds, heavy downpours, and storm surges. Standard homeowners policies sold in Texas don’t cover flood damage and may require an additional endorsement for windstorm coverage.

Flooding

For residents of coastal Texas, storm surge is a significant risk. If you file a claim, the insurer may be fully justified to deny it, as flooding is not covered. There are, however, cases where the insurance adjuster will purposely misrepresent the facts. As an example, if the storm damages the roof, the pouring rainwater may find its way to the ground floor causing extensive damage. The adjuster will argue that your house was flooded so you are not entitled to get any money. If this happens to you, contact seasoned homeowners insurance claim lawyers right away. You have every right to appeal such a decision.

To avoid unpleasant situations, if you live in the coastal area get additional flooding insurance.

Wind and hail damage

Hurricane-force winds can completely destroy the roof of your house. If you live along the Gulf Coast where hurricane winds are the strongest, read your insurance policy carefully, including the fine print to see what type of perils are covered. Check the exclusion clauses. If your standard policy doesn’t cover wind or hail damage, consider an add-on to be protected come what may. Skilled Texas homeowners insurance claim lawyers point out that policies are often written in dense legalese to confuse homeowners. If in doubt about the coverage you have, ask an attorney to have a look at it.

What does a standard home insurance policy cover?

Standard home insurance policies do include some hurricane coverage. You can seek compensation if the hurricane or tropical storm damages:

Heating, air conditioning, plumbing, electrical, and other home systems
The home and attached structures, such as a garage or carport
Furniture, window treatments, clothing, and other personal property
Detached structures, like a gazebo or shed

If you were forced to move out for a while, you can claim living expenses.

When purchasing additional coverage, shop around to find the best offer, even if it comes from a different provider. This, unfortunately means that you will have to file a separate claim for each policy type you have.

If the hurricane damages your garage or the electric system, file a claim with your homeowners’ insurance provider.
If your house was flooded, you should file a claim with the company that covers that
If you have a different provider for windstorm and hail coverage, file a claim with them.

If you have problems getting a fair settlement from your insurer, reach out to a trustworthy insurance claims attorney at McClenny, Moseley & Associates, PLLC in Houston. They’ll help get the money you need to fix your house.

Contact info:

McClenny, Moseley & Associates, PLLC

1415 Louisiana St., Suite 2900

Houston, Texas 77002

Toll-Free: 844 662 7552

Photo: Photo by Library of Congress on Unsplash