Brownsville Homeowners: 5 Storm Damage Red Flags to Watch Out for Roofers

5 Red Flags That a Roofer Is Trying to Scam You After a Storm

You've just been hit with hail and wind damage from a recent storm in Brownsville, Texas, and you're not sure where to turn for help. What you might not know is that the city of Brownsville has seen an average of 5 major storms per year over the past decade, causing millions of dollars in damages.

Why This Keeps Happening — and What It Costs You

After a storm, insurance companies often send adjusters to assess the damage. But let's be real, these adjusters may not always have your best interests at heart. In Texas, it's common for insurers to use their own vendors or contractors for repairs, which can lead to overpriced and unnecessary work.

And you know what? That's the part most people miss: the fine print.

Your wind and hail deductible is a percentage of your home's insured value, not a flat amount. For example, if you have a $300,000 policy with a 1% wind/hail deductible, that's $3,000 out of pocket for repairs. State Farm and Allstate handle depreciation differently, so be sure to review your policy carefully.

What the Insurance Company Doesn't Volunteer

Many homeowners aren't aware that their insurance company may not disclose all the costs associated with a claim. This can include additional fees for things like permits, inspections, and even temporary repairs. If you don't ask questions, you might end up paying thousands of dollars more than necessary.

• Texas issues no state roofing license, so a TDLR lookup will not show one for a roofer — check instead for proof of general liability insurance, a local address, and BBB history before you hire.
• Research online reviews and ask for referrals from friends or family members who have had similar experiences. Don't be afraid to ask for multiple estimates before making a decision.
• Verify the roofer's insurance coverage and workers' compensation policies to ensure you're protected in case of an accident on your property.
• Never sign a contract without carefully reviewing it first. Look for any red flags, such as unusually low bids or pressure to start work immediately.

Exactly What to Do — Step by Step

1. Contact the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) at 800-252-3439 or tdi.texas.gov for guidance on dealing with insurance claims.
2. Visit the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) website, storms.noaa.gov, to learn more about storm safety and preparedness tips.
3. Gather all relevant documentation, including photos of damage, receipts for repairs, and correspondence with your insurance company. Keep a record of every conversation and interaction.
4. If you're not satisfied with the outcome of your claim or feel that you've been scammed by a roofer, contact TDI again for assistance. They may be able to help you resolve the issue or provide additional guidance.

Mistakes That Kill Brownsville Claims

One common mistake homeowners make is not doing their research on contractors before hiring them. This can lead to unlicensed, uninsured, or inexperienced workers who don't follow Texas laws and regulations. No kidding.

By following these steps and being aware of potential red flags, you can increase your chances of getting fair compensation for storm damage to your home. However, even with careful planning and attention to detail, claims can still be denied or disputed.

How to Read Your Explanation of Loss Document

The Explanation of Loss (EOL) document is a critical component of your insurance claim process in Texas. It's a detailed breakdown of the damages incurred during the storm and the amount that will be paid out by your insurer, USAA in this example.

• Review each line item on the EOL to ensure it matches the damage assessment report from your roofer
• Verify that all necessary repairs are included, and that no extraneous items were added. It's a big mistake if they're not.
• Check for mathematical errors in calculations, such as incorrect roof replacement costs or miscalculated deductible amounts (e.g. a $1,000 deductible on a $10,000 claim)

When to Hire a Public Adjuster vs. an Attorney in Texas

In Texas, public adjusters and attorneys can both be valuable resources for navigating the claims process. However, it's essential to understand when each professional is needed.

• Hire a public adjuster if you're struggling to communicate with your insurer or need help interpreting complex policy language
• Consult an attorney if there are disputes over coverage, policy exclusions, or the settlement amount offered by your insurer. They can really help you out.

Texas-Specific Resources and Phone Numbers for Storm Claims Assistance

The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) provides numerous resources to help homeowners navigate storm claims. Here are a few key contacts:

• TDI Consumer Help Line: (800) 252-8664
• TDLR Licensing and Enforcement Division: (512) 463-6599
• TWIA Claims Hotline: (877) 426-9462

Keep in mind that these resources are available to provide guidance, but it's ultimately up to you to advocate for yourself throughout the claims process. Just remember, honesty is key.