Here in Texas, hail storms are known to cause significant damage. That said, if your property has been damaged in a hail storm, you may have a path to recover your losses through a first-party insurance claim. Continue reading and reach out to our skilled Houston hail damage claim lawyers to learn more about how we can assist you through each step of the process ahead.
Hail Damage Claim Lawyers | Representing Clients Throughout Texas
Hail damage can lead to significant expenses, and no property owner should have to fight to recoup these damages on their own. Our Houston first-party claim lawyers have helped countless clients through the claims process for years, and we’re prepared to help you, too.
Examples of Hail Damage
Hailstorms can unleash a variety of damages on your property, leading to steep repair costs and impacting your daily life. Here are some common examples of hail damage that often qualify for a first-party insurance claim:
- Roof Damage: Hail can cause bruising, cracking, or missing shingles, leading to leaks and water damage inside your home.
- Window and Skylight Damage: Hailstones can crack or shatter windows and skylights, necessitating immediate repairs to prevent water ingress and maintain security.
- Siding Damage: After a hailstorm, aluminum siding, vinyl, or other exterior materials may exhibit dents, holes, or cracks.
- Auto Damage: Vehicles left unprotected during a hailstorm can suffer from dents, shattered windshields, and broken mirrors.
- AC Units and Outdoor Equipment: Hail can damage the fins of air conditioning units, reducing their efficiency and impacting the functionality of other outdoor equipment.
- Landscaping and Exterior Decor: Trees, shrubs, and outdoor decorations can be stripped, damaged, or destroyed, affecting your property’s aesthetics and value.
Prompt assessment and documentation of these damages are crucial for supporting your insurance claim.
Filing a First-Party Hail Damage Claim in Texas
Filing a first-party insurance claim for hail damage in Texas involves several critical steps. Following this process carefully can enhance your chances of receiving fair compensation:
- Document the hail damage with photos and videos as soon as it’s safe. Include date stamps to verify the timing of the damage.
- Review your policy’s declarations page to understand your coverage. Look for specifics on hail damage, deductibles, and any relevant exclusions.
- Notify your insurance company of the damage as soon as possible. Texas law requires prompt reporting for claims processing. Keep a record of all communications with your insurance company.
- If necessary, make temporary repairs to prevent further damage. Save all receipts, as these costs may be reimbursable under your policy.
- The insurance company will send an adjuster to assess the damage. Have your documentation ready, and consider having a contractor you trust present during the inspection to ensure all damages are accounted for. You should also request a copy of the adjuster’s report.
- Submit your claim with all supporting documentation, adhering to your insurer’s guidelines. Include estimates for repairs from licensed contractors.
- Consider hiring a lawyer who has extensive experience handling first-party insurance claims. An attorney can help handle negotiations and ensure you’re fairly compensated for your property’s damage.
Notably, the Texas Insurance Code (Chapter 542) provides timelines and procedures that insurance companies must follow when processing claims, so you should familiarize yourself with these provisions or consult a legal professional to understand how they apply to your situation.
Contact Our Houston First-Party Insurance Claims Lawyers
The bottom line is that if your property has been damaged in a hail storm, our legal team stands ready to fight for every cent of compensation you are entitled to. Contact the hail damage claim lawyers here at Patout & Shaw to schedule your initial consultation today.
