Austin Homeowners: Preparing for Severe Storms in the Hill Country

Texas Storm Season Update: What You Need to Know Right Now

Are you prepared for the next severe weather event in Austin? The National Weather Service has issued a Tropical Storm Watch for Brazoria Islands, Chambers County, and Coastal Galveston. If you're expecting damage from strong winds or hail, it's essential to know your rights as a homeowner.

The Reality of Texas Storms: Higher Costs and More Frequent Claims

Texas makes it harder due to its size and diverse weather patterns, making it more challenging for homeowners to anticipate and prepare for severe weather events. The state's large size means that storms can affect different areas at the same time, causing widespread damage.

For example, in 2022, Austin experienced an average of 1.5 hail storms per month between May and September, with damages estimated at $10 million per event. This frequency and severity of storms lead to higher insurance claims and repair costs for homeowners.

The Numbers: What to Expect in Austin

Roofing contractors in the Austin area charged $380-560 per square foot for architectural shingle replacement in 2025, a 22% increase from 2022 due to material costs and demand after back-to-back hail seasons. This surge in prices is driven by the high demand for repairs following severe weather events.

Homeowners can push back on these prices by verifying the contractor's license and insurance, as well as reviewing their contract carefully before signing. It's also essential to check if the contractor has experience with your specific type of roof and storm damage.

How to Verify Who You're Working With

• Verify a contractor's license at license.tdlr.texas.gov. Ensure their license is up-to-date and has no disciplinary actions.
• Check the contractor's insurance coverage, including liability and workers' compensation. This can be done through the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) at tdi.texas.gov.
• Contact the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) or Haag Engineering for verification of a contractor's credentials and experience with storm damage.

Your Texas Rights if Things Go Wrong

As a homeowner, you're protected by Texas laws, including the prompt payment law (15/15/15 rule), which requires insurance companies to pay claims within 15 days of receiving all necessary documentation. If your insurer fails to meet this deadline, they may be subject to penalties under the bad faith statute.

Additionally, if you're unhappy with the adjuster's assessment or repairs, you can file a complaint with the TDI. The appraisal clause in your insurance policy also provides a process for resolving disputes over claim amounts.

Taking proactive steps to prepare and verify your contractors can make a significant difference in the outcome of your storm damage claim. By knowing your rights and taking control of the repair process, you can minimize the financial impact of severe weather events on your home. With patience and persistence, you can navigate this complex process and get back to normal in no time.