Preparing Your Laredo Home for the Next Storm: Essential Tasks in the First 48 Hours

Why Texas homeowners are uniquely vulnerable to storm damage

Laredo, Texas, has seen its fair share of intense storms in recent years, with hail and wind damage causing millions of dollars' worth of damage to homes across the city. But what you may not know is that Texas has some unique rules when it comes to insurance claims.

The Texas difference: why this state has special challenges

Texas law requires homeowners to purchase separate flood coverage, which can be a costly add-on to your policy. Additionally, many Texas insurers charge a 1% wind/hail deductible on policies above $250,000, meaning you'll have to pay out-of-pocket for a significant portion of repairs before insurance kicks in.

Recent changes to building codes and updated regulations have also led to increased costs for homeowners in Laredo. For example, the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) implemented new rules in 2020 requiring insurers to use more accurate methods for estimating storm damage.

What you're actually owed — the real numbers

A typical Laredo 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. This can be a significant burden for many homeowners in the area.

How to get the most from your claim or contractor

To maximize your insurance payout and avoid costly repairs, it's essential to take the following steps:

• Document everything: Take photos and videos of damage before and after repairs. This will help you keep track of what needs to be fixed and ensure that your insurer covers the costs.
• Get multiple estimates: Don't rely on a single contractor's estimate. Get quotes from at least three licensed contractors in Laredo to compare prices and services.
• Check your policy details: Review your insurance policy to understand what is covered and what is not. Make sure you have the right coverage for your home, including flood insurance if necessary.
• File your claim promptly: Don't wait too long to file a claim after the storm. The sooner you report damage, the faster you'll receive reimbursement and begin repairs.

Red flags: when the contractor or insurer is acting in bad faith

Beware of contractors who promise to "waive your deductible" or say they'll "cover all costs." This is a common tactic used by unscrupulous contractors to gain your trust. In Texas, it's against the law for a contractor to waive or pay your insurance deductible. Be wary of any language that sounds too good (or bad) to be true.

Additionally, be cautious if an insurer denies your claim without providing sufficient evidence. Texas law requires insurers to provide clear explanations for denied claims, so if you're unsure about the reasoning behind a denial, it's essential to seek advice from a trusted insurance professional or contact TDI directly at 800-252-3439.

Take action this week by reviewing your insurance policy and ensuring that you have the right coverage for your home. Check with your insurer to confirm that you're properly insured against wind and hail damage, and consider purchasing separate flood coverage if necessary. By being proactive and taking control of your insurance, you can better protect yourself from storm-related financial burdens in Laredo.