Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Lubbock's Hail Season: A Guide to Insurance Claim Success

Common Insurance Claim Mistakes Texas Homeowners Make After Hail

You're standing in your driveway, surveying the damage from the latest hail storm that swept through Lubbock. The roof is dented, the gutters are torn, and you can see the telltale signs of hail impact on your siding. What you don't know is that a surprising 70% of hail claims in Texas are initially denied by insurance companies, often due to a lack of proper documentation or miscommunication with adjusters.

Why this keeps happening — and what it costs you

It's no secret that Texas insurers have gotten more aggressive in recent years when it comes to denying claims. With the increasing frequency and severity of hail storms, insurance companies are looking for ways to minimize their payouts. In Texas, the wind and hail deductible is a percentage of your home's insured value, not a flat amount, which can be a costly surprise for homeowners who don't understand their policy.

For example, if your home is insured for $300,000 and you have a 1% wind/hail deductible, that's a $3,000 hit to your wallet before any repairs even begin. And with the average cost of hail damage repairs in Lubbock ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, it's not hard to see how these costs can add up quickly.

What the insurance company doesn't volunteer

One key thing that insurance companies often don't tell homeowners is that they have a limited time frame in which to file a claim. In Texas, you typically have 30 days from the date of loss to notify your insurer and initiate the claims process. If you miss this deadline, you may be barred from filing a claim altogether.

• Document everything: Take photos and videos of the damage, including any broken windows, dented siding, or damaged roof shingles. Keep a record of all correspondence with your insurer, including dates, times, and details of conversations.
• Get multiple estimates: Don't rely on just one contractor's estimate for repairs. Get at least three bids from licensed contractors to ensure you're getting the best price.
• Know your policy: Review your insurance policy carefully to understand what is covered and what isn't. Make sure you know how to file a claim and what documentation is required.
• Hire a public adjuster: If you're unsure about how to navigate the claims process or if you've been denied by your insurer, consider hiring a public adjuster to help guide you through the process.

Exactly what to do — step by step

1. Contact your insurance company immediately: Reach out to your insurer as soon as possible after the storm to notify them of the damage and initiate the claims process.
2. Visit the Texas Department of Insurance website: The TDI website (tdi.texas.gov) has a wealth of information on hail damage, including tips for homeowners, guidance on filing claims, and resources for finding licensed contractors.
3. Gather documentation: Keep a record of all correspondence with your insurer, as well as any estimates or bids from contractors. Take photos and videos of the damage to support your claim.
4. Don't give up: If you've been denied by your insurer, don't assume it's over. You can appeal the decision or seek help from a public adjuster to guide you through the process.

Mistakes that kill Lubbock claims

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make when filing a hail claim is failing to document everything properly. This can lead to delays or even denial of your claim. Another common mistake is hiring an unlicensed contractor, who may not be held accountable for subpar workmanship or hidden costs.

A third mistake is assuming that your insurer will automatically cover all damages. In reality, you'll need to prove the extent of the damage and provide documentation to support your claim. And finally, failing to keep track of deadlines can lead to missed opportunities to file a claim or appeal a denial.

By following these steps and being aware of common insurance claim mistakes, homeowners in Lubbock can ensure that their claims are handled fairly and efficiently. Don't let hail damage catch you off guard – stay informed and take action quickly to protect your investment.