Hail or storm damage in Celina
North Texas gets hail. When it hits, the first days decide how smooth the claim goes. These steps follow the Texas Department of Insurance's advice.
Have a roofer call meDo these first, in this order
- Take photos and video of the damage: the roof if you can see it from the ground, the gutters, the siding, anything inside that got wet.
- Stop more damage if you safely can, like covering an opening, and keep every receipt.
- Call your insurance agent or company as soon as you can.
- Get written bids before you sign anything. The Texas Department of Insurance suggests at least three.
The Texas deductible rule
- It is illegal in Texas for a roofer to offer to pay, waive or rebate your insurance deductible, or to hide it inside the bid.
- A roofer who offers to 'cover your deductible' is offering something the law does not allow.
- Your wind and hail deductible can be different from your other deductible. Check your policy.
When someone knocks on your door
- The Texas Department of Insurance advises hiring local contractors and checking references.
- Don't feel pushed to sign on the doorstep. A good roofer will still be there tomorrow.
- Out-of-town contractors can't ask for a down payment before they start work after a disaster.
Sources: Texas Department of Insurance: storm recovery tips · Texas Department of Insurance: contractor scams · Texas Department of Insurance: replacing your roof
More: Roof repair · Roof replacement · Roof inspection
Questions
How fast does my insurer have to respond?
The Texas Department of Insurance says your company must acknowledge the claim within 15 days, accept or deny it within 15 business days of getting everything it needs, and pay within five business days of agreeing.
Who can I call if something seems wrong?
The Texas Department of Insurance Help Line is 800-252-3439, Monday to Friday. You can report a contractor scam to the Texas Attorney General at 800-621-0508.