Houston features gorgeous coastal views that are just a quick drive away, but that same easy access to the shore means this city is at risk of disastrous hurricane damage. Hurricane season here starts in June and runs through late November. Are you prepared to deal with the aftermath if a wicked storm strikes your Houston home or business?
By following these tips from a wind and hail damage claims lawyer in Houston, you’ll be ready for anything the weather throws your way.
Houston Is No Stranger to Damaging Hurricanes
Hurricanes rarely visit the majority of Texas, but coastal locales like Houston are another story. Few locals could ever forget the devastating Hurricane Harvey in 2017, which caused a whopping $125 billion in damage and claimed the lives of more than 100 Texans.
Three years later, Hurricane Laura paid Houston a visit. This Category 4 hurricane wrecked homes and businesses with winds reaching up to 150 miles per hour.
In short, if you’re a Houstonian, adequate windstorm coverage and flood insurance are a must.
Assessing the Coverage You Need
Don’t have hurricane coverage yet? Here’s how to determine the level of coverage you’ll need:
- Is your home close to the coast? If so, you’ll want rock-solid hurricane insurance.
- Is your property built on an old tributary?
- Is it at or below sea level?
- Do you have hurricane mitigation measures installed, such as an elevated foundation, roof clips, or shatter-resistant windows?
- Is your roof old or newly installed?
Not sure how much coverage you require? Reach out to a wind and hail damage claims lawyer.
Insurance Policy Review: Is Yours Up to Snuff?
Homeowners insurance generally covers some facets of hurricane damage, but yours probably won’t cover everything. For example, while many policies cover damage from lightning strikes, fires, and falling objects, the vast majority don’t cover flooding. Some also don’t cover wind damage, especially in high-risk windy areas like Houston.
If your current policy doesn’t cover wind or flood damage, you’ll need to buy a standalone policy for these perils. A good policy should cover property damage and the loss of perishable goods, as well as debris removal.
If you run a business, choose a policy that covers:
- Extra expenses and business interruption costs
- Lost business income due to temporary closure
- Ingress and egress coverage
- Damage to improvements such as trees, signs, and fences
In Texas, hurricane insurance typically costs about $2,000 to $5,000 per year. A wind and hail damage claims lawyer can tell you more about how much you should expect to pay for premiums and hurricane deductibles.
TWIA vs. NFIP Insurance
Houstonians can choose from two types of hurricane coverage: NFIP or TWIA.
TWIA is a Texas-exclusive coverage program that covers homeowners in coastal areas. It covers wind and hail damage, but not flooding.
NFIP, on the other hand, is a federal program that provides flood coverage, but doesn’t offer coverage for wind damage.
Understanding Property Damage Claims
The worst has happened: A hurricane has struck your Houston home or business. Whether the damage is minor or catastrophic, now is the time to lean on your hurricane coverage.
Make a list of everything damaged by the storm and submit it, along with receipts if possible, to the insurer. The insurance company will send an adjuster to review the damage. You can also hire a public adjuster to help negotiate your claim.
Contact a Wind and Hail Damage Claims Lawyer Now
Not sure how much coverage your Houston home or business needs? Has your hurricane insurance company denied your claim? Contact McLaurin Law, PLLC at (713) 364-1895 for a consultation with a wind and hail damage claims lawyer.
