Fort Worth Homeowners: Preparing for Severe Storms in North Texas This Week

Texas Storm Season Update: Don't Let Hail Damage Sneak Up On You

You're a Fort Worth homeowner who's just started to notice small cracks in your roof shingles, but you can't quite recall how long they've been there. Did you know that hail damage can sometimes go undetected for years, only to cause costly repairs when it finally gives way? In fact, according to the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI), hail damage claims have increased by 25% in the past five years alone.

Why This Keeps Happening — and What It Costs You

The root cause of this problem lies in the way many insurance companies handle depreciation. In Texas, you have exactly two years from the storm date to file a claim for hail damage. If you wait too long, your insurer may deny your claim or significantly reduce the payout due to depreciation. For example, if a storm causes $10,000 worth of damage and you don't file a claim until 18 months later, your insurer might only pay out $6,000 after accounting for depreciation.

What the Insurance Company Doesn't Volunteer

• Don't assume that your insurance company will automatically send someone to inspect your property after a storm. You need to proactively reach out to them and request an inspection within 72 hours of the event, as per Texas Insurance Code Section 554.003.
• Some insurers, like State Farm, have specific procedures for handling hail damage claims that can affect the outcome of your claim.
• Keep in mind that if you've had previous roof repairs or replacements, it may be more difficult to prove the extent of the current damage due to pre-existing conditions.
• Familiarize yourself with your policy's deductible and understand how it will impact your payout. A higher deductible can save you money upfront but may leave you facing a larger financial burden in case of a major storm event.

Exactly What To Do — Step by Step

1. Contact your insurance company immediately after the storm to report any damage and request an inspection. Make sure to have your policy number and claim reference number handy, as well as photos or videos of the damage.
2. Visit the Texas Department of Insurance website (tdi.texas.gov) for a comprehensive guide on navigating hail damage claims and understanding your rights as a homeowner.
3. Gather all relevant documentation, including receipts for any previous roof repairs or replacements, insurance policy documents, and photos or videos of the current damage. Keep track of all correspondence with your insurer, including dates, times, and contact information.
4. If the first steps don't yield satisfactory results, consider reaching out to a Texas-licensed public adjuster who can help you navigate the claims process and advocate on your behalf.

Mistakes That Kill Fort Worth Claims

One common mistake homeowners make is waiting too long to file their claim. This not only allows depreciation to eat into the payout but also increases the likelihood of the insurer denying the claim altogether. Another mistake is failing to document the damage thoroughly, which can lead to disputes over the extent and cost of repairs. Finally, many homeowners underestimate the importance of understanding their policy's deductible and how it will impact their financial situation in case of a major storm event.

By following these steps and being proactive about your hail damage claim, you can increase your chances of receiving fair compensation for the damages. However, remember that no outcome is guaranteed, and the process may still be lengthy and contentious. As a Fort Worth homeowner, it's essential to stay vigilant and informed throughout the storm season to minimize potential losses.