Waco Homeowners: Cooling Down When Your AC Fails During a Heatwave

What to Do When Your AC Goes Out After a Texas Storm or Extreme Heat

Did you know that Waco, Texas experiences an average of 213 days with temperatures above 90°F each year? That's more than any other major city in the United States. When your air conditioning unit fails during these sweltering heatwaves, it can be a nightmare to get help.

The Texas Difference: Why This State Has Unique Rules

Under Texas Insurance Code Section 16-13.008, insurance companies are required to provide coverage for damage caused by severe weather events, including hail and windstorms. However, many homeowners in Waco are unaware of the specific requirements for filing a claim after an extreme heat event.

In recent years, several major insurers have exited the Texas market, leaving many homeowners without adequate coverage. For example, State Farm's decision to exit the Texas homeowner insurance market in 2016 left thousands of policyholders scrambling to find new coverage. Meanwhile, the City of Waco has implemented updated building codes requiring newer homes to be designed with heat-resistant materials.

What You're Actually Owed — The Real Numbers

A typical Waco homeowner on a 1,800 sq ft house insured at $320k faces a 1% hail deductible, meaning $3,200 out of pocket before insurance pays anything. To make matters worse, the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) reports that only 35% of homeowners in Texas have adequate coverage for severe weather events.

How to Get the Most from Your Claim or Contractor

To maximize your chances of getting a fair settlement, follow these steps:

• Document everything: Take photos and videos of damage, as well as keep receipts for any temporary repairs. This will help you prove the extent of the damage to your insurer.
• Bid out your repair work: Get multiple quotes from licensed contractors to ensure you're getting a fair price for repairs.
• Know your rights: Familiarize yourself with Texas law, including the Texas Insurance Code and TDI regulations. This will help you navigate the claims process and avoid being taken advantage of by unscrupulous insurers or contractors.
• Don't wait too long: File your claim promptly to avoid delays in getting repairs done and minimize further damage to your property.

Red Flags: When the Contractor or Insurer is Acting in Bad Faith

Beware of these warning signs when dealing with contractors or insurers:

• If a contractor says "we'll cover your deductible," that's insurance fraud under Texas Insurance Code 27.02 — walk away.
• Be cautious if an insurer tries to downplay the severity of the damage or blames you for causing the problem.
• Watch out for contractors who push for upfront payment or try to convince you to sign a contract without reviewing it carefully.
• If an insurer refuses to honor their policy terms, report them to the TDI immediately.

Don't wait until your AC unit fails during a heatwave to prepare. This week, make sure you have all necessary documentation and contact information for your insurance company and contractor on hand. When disaster strikes, being prepared will help you get back up and running quickly and safely in Waco's hot summer sun.