HOUSTON — Houston is known for its crazy and sometimes unpredictable weather, but what happens when it becomes damaging to your vehicle or home?
If you have wind and hail coverage on your home policy or comprehensive coverage on your auto policy, your insurance company should pay for your hail damage.
According to the Texas Department of Insurance, drivers are urged to file an insurance claim as soon as possible if hail or strong winds damaged your home or car.
Here are some helpful tips that could help make the process easier:
Claims
- Take pictures and video of the damage. Make a list of the damage inside and outside your house or car. Don’t throw any damaged items away until your insurance company tells you.
- Prevent more damage. Remove standing water. Cover broken windows and holes to keep rain out. Save all receipts. Your policy may pay for temporary repairs.
- Be available for the adjuster visit. You can make sure they see everything.
- Keep a list of everyone you talk to at your insurance company. Be ready to answer questions about the damage.
- Ask about living expenses. If you can’t stay in your house after a storm, most policies will cover some related costs. Keep your receipts.
Avoid fraud
- Get more than one bid or repair estimate. That will help you decide which offers are too high or too good to be true.
- Check references and phone numbers. Call the Better Business Bureau to see if a contractor or body shop has complaints.
- Don’t pay in full up front. And don’t make your final payment until work is done.
- Avoid contractors who offer to waive your deductible. It’s illegal to waive a homeowners deductible under state law. Your insurance company may ask for proof that you paid your deductible.
- Never sign a contract that has blank spaces.
