When Mother Nature Breaks Texas Records: How 2025’s Historic Storm Season is Reshaping Property Damage Claims

Texas 2025 Storm Damage: What Homeowners Need to Know About Insurance Claims

Cars are partially submerged on a flooded road in McAllen, Texas, after a record-breaking rainstorm in March 2025. Texas residents are no strangers to extreme weather, but 2025’s storm season is already one for the record books. In late March, the Rio Grande Valley was deluged by an unprecedented rainstorm – Harlingen saw 21.5 inches of rain in two days, shattering a century-old record and causing deadly flooding. Spring storms have also unleashed tornado swarms and giant hail across the state. By May 2025, Texas had logged over 1,000 severe weather events (tornadoes, hailstorms, and high winds) – more than any other state in the country. Each headline-grabbing storm means thousands of Texans dealing with property damage, from ripped-up roofs and shattered windows to water-logged homes and businesses. If you’re one of them, we empathize: seeing your home wrecked by Mother Nature is devastating. And the aftermath can be just as overwhelming, especially when it comes to Texas storm damage claims with insurance. The good news? You’re not alone, and there are clear steps to take to recover. Let’s break down what you need to know about property damage claims in Texas’s wild 2025 storm season.

If your Texas storm damage claim has been denied, delayed, or underpaid, don’t fight the insurance company alone. JCE Law Group is here to help you get the compensation you deserve. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency basis; you don’t pay unless we win. Call us today at (504) 754-5884 or visit Contact Us to speak with a Texas property damage attorney who understands your situation and knows how to fight back.

Texas Storm Damage Claims: What You Need to Know

Texas law offers protections for homeowners facing storm damage, but it’s essential to understand the basics. First off, most home insurance policies in Texas cover wind and hail damage (common in hurricanes, tornadoes, and thunderstorms) but do not cover flood damage. Flooding – such as the kind seen in South Texas this year – is only covered if you have a separate flood insurance policy. This distinction can make or break your claim: if a hurricane blows your roof off, your homeowner’s policy should cover it; if a storm surge or creek flood inundates your house, only flood insurance helps. Insurers sometimes argue over what caused the damage (for example, wind vs. flood) to determine coverage. Don’t let them pin all the blame on an uncovered cause – you have the right to challenge a wrongful denial.

Another key point is timing. Texas has a legal deadline called a statute of limitations for filing lawsuits over property damage. In Texas, this deadline is two years for most property damage lawsuits. In other words, if your claim isn’t resolved and you need to sue (for example, suing an insurance company for wrongfully denying a claim), you generally have two years from the date of the damage to file. Missing that window can mean losing your right to compensation. Keep this in mind as you navigate your claim – while most cases won’t end up in court, you don’t want to run out the clock if negotiations stall.

Texas insurance laws also require insurers to handle claims in good faith and within specific timeframes. Under the Texas Prompt Payment of Claims Act (Texas Insurance Code Chapter 542), an insurer typically must acknowledge your claim, investigate, and make a decision within a set period (usually 15 business days after you submit all proof of loss). If they accept the claim, they must pay within five business days of approval. These laws are supposed to ensure timely payment. However, after a significant disaster, those timelines can extend (and companies often get some leeway during extreme weather catastrophes). Still, if an insurer unreasonably delays or denies a valid claim, they can face penalties – including owing you interest on the amount due. (One important note: a 2017 Texas law reduced some of these penalty provisions and made suing insurers more complex, which consumer advocates warned would embolden companies to deny more storm claims. Unfortunately, many believe that’s precisely what happened, as unpaid claims have spiked in recent years.)

So what does this mean for you? Knowledge is power. Knowing that you should file your claim promptly, understand your policy (especially any separate wind or hail deductible), and not take an initial denial as the final word can make a huge difference. Let’s walk through the typical timeline and steps in a Texas storm damage claim process, and how to protect yourself at each stage.

Timeline of a Texas Property Damage Claim

1. Immediately After the Storm – Safety and Documentation: Your first step is safety. Make sure your family is safe and your property is secure. Once the immediate danger passes, document the damage as thoroughly as possible. Take photos and video of all damage to your home and belongings. Temporary repairs (like tarping a hole in the roof) should be done quickly to prevent further harm – and keep receipts, as those costs may be reimbursable. Texas policies require you to mitigate damage, but do not start permanent repairs until the insurance adjuster has assessed the damage.

2. Notify Your Insurer and File the Claim:Report the damage to your insurance company as soon as you can. Most policies oblige you to give prompt notice – and the sooner you file, the sooner the process starts. Provide the basic information about what happened and the damage. After a widespread Texas disaster, insurers may be handling thousands of claims, so getting in the queue early is crucial. When filing, be clear and factual about the damage. Document everything – note the date and time of your calls, the claim number, and the person you spoke to.

3. Insurance Adjuster Inspection: The insurer will assign an adjuster to assess your property. In a heavy storm season, this might take longer than usual, but Texas law mandates timely action. (They generally have 15 days to acknowledge your claim and 15 additional business days after receiving all info to accept or deny – though disasters can extend these deadlines.) When the adjuster visits, make sure to point out all damage. It can help to have a contractor or public adjuster on your side for a second opinion, especially for severe losses. Keep notes of the inspection and ask the adjuster for a summary of their findings before they leave.

4. Claim Decision – Approval, Denial, or Low Offer: After the inspection, the insurance company will send you a determination. Ideally, they approve your claim and offer a fair payout to cover repairs. Many Texas storm damage claims, however, don’t go so smoothly. You might get a denial letter or an offer that seems far too low to fix the damage. Don’t panic. The insurer must give a reason if they deny or partially deny your claim. Common excuses include arguing that the damage was pre-existing, below your deductible, or not covered by the policy. In recent years, some insurers have been raising deductibles so high that many moderate claims result in no payout. For example, if you have a 2% windstorm deductible on a $300,000 home, you’d shoulder the first $6,000 of wind damage – a threshold many hail or wind claims might not meet, leaving homeowners empty-handed. Review the decision carefully.

5. If Your Claim Is Denied or Underpaid – Fight Back: A denial or low offer is not the end. You have options. First, you can dispute the decision internally – contact the claims adjuster or a claims manager with evidence that the damage is covered and the costs are higher. Provide repair estimates from reputable contractors. If it’s a partial denial, ask them to clarify which parts of the damage they’re not covering and why. Sometimes, bringing in an independent expert (like an engineer or public adjuster) to write a report on the damage can sway an insurer to reconsider. You should also know that you can file a complaint with the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) if you believe the insurer is acting unfairly. TDI can’t force them to pay, but it puts regulatory pressure on the company. Finally, if you’re getting nowhere or the amount at stake is significant, consulting a property damage attorney is a smart move. An attorney can evaluate if the insurance company is in breach of contract or acting in “bad faith” (which is when an insurer dodges its obligations to avoid paying). Remember that two-year lawsuit clock – if negotiations drag on, you may need to file suit to preserve your rights. Often, the mere involvement of a lawyer leads to a more reasonable settlement offer from insurers who realize you mean business.

Throughout this process, keep organized records: copies of all correspondence, claim forms, estimates, receipts for any emergency repairs or living expenses, and notes of every phone call. This documentation can be your best friend if there’s a dispute later.

Extreme Weather Is Changing Insurance in Texas

It’s not just your imagination – insurance in Texas is getting tougher to navigate because of extreme weather. The extreme weather impact on insurance policies is a real phenomenon, especially in storm-prone states like Texas. Insurers, facing billions in payouts from hurricanes, hailstorms, and floods, have responded by adjusting their policies and practices in ways that often leave policyholders paying more or getting less coverage.

One significant change is higher deductibles and new coverage limits. A decade ago, you might have had a flat $1,000 deductible on your home insurance. Now, it’s common to see percentage-based deductibles (typically 1% to 5% of your home’s insured value) for wind or hail damage. That means a Texas homeowner with a $300,000 policy and a 2% wind deductible must pay the first $6,000 of any wind or hail claim – a huge out-of-pocket hit. Many storm damage claims fall under these high deductibles, resulting in no payout. Insurers are also carving out specific perils: for example, in parts of Texas, some private insurers won’t cover windstorm damage at all, forcing homeowners to buy a separate policy from the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA) for hurricane-prone regions. Similarly, cosmetic damage exclusions are on the rise – your policy might not cover things like cosmetic dents to a metal roof from hail unless there’s a structural breach, allowing insurers to deny claims for “appearance-only” damage.

Premiums are climbing as well. More frequent and severe storms = higher risk = higher insurance rates. Texas homeowners have seen premiums jump in recent years, and some insurers have even stopped writing new policies in particularly storm-battered areas. (While Texas hasn’t had the massive insurer pull-out that states like Florida or California have experienced, companies are skittish. There are hints of tighter underwriting standards – meaning more scrutiny of your roof’s age, for instance, or denying coverage if your home is too close to the coast or in a flood zone.) All of this means Texans are paying more for less coverage, and it’s crucial to review your policy carefully each year. If your insurer non-renews your policy or hikes your rate, shop around – and look into state-supported programs or last-resort options if needed.

Finally, be aware of the claims environment: insurance companies have teams and lawyers looking to minimize payouts, especially during catastrophic storm seasons. Recent data showed some Texas insurers denied or closed without payment over 50% of claims in a given year – often by leaning on those high deductibles or technical loopholes. It’s a trend born from the financial pressures of extreme weather losses. What can you do? Make sure you understand your coverage and rights. Don’t be afraid to question your insurance company – and get help from consumer advocates, public adjusters, or attorneys if you suspect you’re being stonewalled. The more Texans push back against unfair denials, the more insurers will think twice before using “delay, deny, defend” tactics as a routine strategy.

Hail, Wind or Flood? Different Storms, Different Claims

Not all storm damage is created equal in the eyes of insurance. Texas gets a variety of natural disasters – each with its insurance wrinkles. It’s essential to know how different types of storm damage claims are handled:

• Hail & Wind (Tornado or Hurricane) Damage: These are typically covered under standard homeowners or commercial property insurance policies. If a hailstorm pummels your roof or a tornado tears off your siding, your policy’s wind/hail coverage should kick in (after you pay the deductible). Texas leads the nation in hail damage – billions are paid out for hail claims here every year – so insurers scrutinize these claims closely. Expect the adjuster to check for pre-existing damage or wear on your roof; a common denial reason is “your roof was old or not well-maintained, so the damage isn’t covered.” Don’t accept that at face value. Minor wear doesn’t excuse an insurer from covering sudden hail impact damage. If a tornado or windstorm causes structural damage, also be aware of building code coverage – your policy might cover the extra cost to bring your home up to current code when rebuilding, but only if you purchased that endorsement. Always ask about it if you have major repairs (e.g., older homes often need electrical or roof upgrades during rebuilds).

• Flood Damage: As mentioned, flood is excluded from standard policies. Texas has its share of flash floods and coastal storm surges. Flood insurance (through FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program or private insurers) is needed to cover this. If you have flood coverage, claims for rising water damage should be filed there. If you don’t have it, unfortunately, a lot of water-related losses might not be recoverable from insurance at all. However, sometimes there’s a gray area – say a hurricane blows a hole in your roof and rain pours in, causing interior water damage. Is that flood (excluded) or rain through an opening caused by wind (covered)? Generally, that should be covered by homeowners’ insurance, because the proximate cause was wind. Insurers may try to label widespread flooding as flood-only and deny everything. This is where detailed evidence and expert reports can help. After events like Harvey or other hurricanes, engineers often had to determine the extent of the damage caused by wind before the floodwaters hit. If you’re in a dispute over this, consider seeking an independent expert.

• Lightning & Fire: Texas storms often come with intense lightning. Fires or power surge damage caused by lightning are usually covered. Just be sure to report any electronics or appliances that are damaged by a surge – those are valid claims people often overlook. The same goes for wildfires sparked by drought and heat (another “natural disaster” Texas has seen). Fire damage is covered, though if you’re in a high-risk wildfire area, insurers might have specific requirements (clearing brush, etc.).

• Winter Storms (Freeze) Damage: While 2025 is about record storms of the warmer variety, let’s not forget Texas can freeze too (recall the 2021 Winter Storm Uri). Standard policies do cover things like burst pipes from a freeze, but they often require that you’ve taken reasonable care (for example, if you left your home unheated and the pipes froze, they might deny it for neglect). After that 2021 disaster, many Texans learned the hard way about policy fine print. If another deep freeze hits, make sure to keep receipts for any preventative measures (like wrapping pipes or hotel stays if power is out) – those might be reimbursable.

• Vehicle Damage in Storms: Texas storms don’t just damage buildings; hail and floodwaters can destroy cars, too. Car insurance, not home insurance, covers vehicle damage. If you have comprehensive auto coverage, hail or flood is typically covered (with your auto deductible). These claims are straightforward – just remember to make them under your auto policy. One tip: after a major hailstorm, insurance companies often set up drive-through claim centers to assess cars – take advantage of those for faster processing.

Each type of storm damage comes with its claim strategies, but a common thread is: document thoroughly and don’t assume a denial is final. If your insurer cites an exclusion or other reason, read your policy yourself (or have an attorney read it) to verify. Many policyholders accept a denial or low payment too quickly, not realizing it could be challenged. Knowledge of the differences above helps you ask the right questions: “Is this flood damage or is the rain damage covered? Why is only half of my roof replacement covered – isn’t matching the shingles part of making me whole?” The more specific you can be, the better you can advocate for a fair outcome.

Why Storm Damage Claims Get Denied or Underpaid

After a disaster, you’d hope insurance claims would be straightforward – you’ve paid your premiums, you get the help you need. Unfortunately, many Texas storm damage claims are denied or underpaid, and it’s often not because of anything you did wrong. Here are some common reasons (and excuses) insurers use to limit payouts on property damage:

• “Wear and Tear” or Pre-Existing Conditions: This is a go-to tactic. Let’s say a hailstorm leaves your roof leaking. The insurer might inspect and conclude that your shingles were old or already damaged before the storm, and thus refuse to pay full value (or anything at all). While policies do exclude maintenance issues, they do cover sudden damage from a storm. Don’t let an adjuster write off real storm damage as mere wear and tear without evidence. You can provide photos from before the storm or reports to show your roof was in decent shape. If necessary, hire an independent roofer or engineer to give an opinion.

• Damage Below Deductible: As mentioned, high deductibles mean many claims result in no checks to the homeowner. An insurer might simply say, “The damage is $X, which is below your deductible, so we’re closing the claim.” Sometimes they underestimate the damage to stay under the threshold. You have a right to get your repair estimates – if your contractor says it’s more, provide that information. It may push the claim above the deductible, so you get paid.

• Exclusions in the Policy: Insurance policies have pages of exclusions, and companies will comb through them to find one that fits. Common ones: flood (as discussed), seepage or mold (if water damage wasn’t addressed quickly, they might say mold resulting from it isn’t covered), concurrent causation (when two things combine to cause harm, like wind and flood, some policies say if an uncovered cause is involved they won’t pay – though Texas law has some anti-concurrent causation provisions that can help in some instances). If you get an exclusion cited, read that policy section yourself. Does it truly apply to your situation? Sometimes insurers apply exclusions too broadly. Don’t be afraid to point out if you think your loss should be covered despite the fine print they quote.

• Partial Repairs instead of Replacement: A classic underpayment scenario: a severe hailstorm damages your roof, and the insurance approves only patch repairs on part of the roof. You know the entire roof needs replacement to do it right. Insurers often try to cheap out with spot repairs. Texas law supports policyholders here in many cases – if you have a replacement cost policy, you should get a new item (roof) when the old one is significantly damaged. Also, the Texas Department of Insurance has guidelines about matching – if you have to replace shingles, they should reasonably match the existing ones. If half the roof is new and half old, that’s not making you whole. Push back on inadequate repair scopes.

• Delays Leading to More Damage: Another scenario: the insurance company drags its feet, and meanwhile, your leaky roof causes ceiling collapse and mold. Then the insurer says they won’t cover the mold because you “failed to protect the property.” Hold on – if they delayed, that’s on them. Document any communications and delays. Texas’s prompt payment law was meant to deter foot-dragging. While a 2017 legislative change reduced the interest penalty for delays, insurers still can be held accountable for extra damage that results from unreasonable delay or denial. We’ve seen cases where an insurer’s slow response exacerbated losses – in such cases, an attorney can argue that those additional damages should be covered.

• Outright Bad Faith Denials: Sometimes, there’s no good reason at all – the insurer is simply trying to save money. Internal company culture might encourage adjusters to deny first and negotiate later. Signs of possible bad faith: your insurer doesn’t give an apparent reason for denial, they misrepresent what your policy covers, they keep transferring you to different adjusters without progress, or they make insulting low offers far below any repair estimates. If you suspect this, it’s time to involve a professional. In Texas, you can sue for bad faith insurance practices and recover not just the claim amount but potentially penalties and attorney fees. While litigation is a last resort, there is a possibility of holding insurers accountable.

It’s worth noting that after large-scale disasters, denial rates often jump. One analysis found that in one recent year, 10 major insurers in Texas closed more than half of their homeowners’ claims without paying anything. Insurers might blame fraud or minor claims for those numbers, but consumer advocates point out that it likely includes many valid claims that people simply didn’t fight. It can be exhausting to go up against a big insurance company when you’re also dealing with the stress of storm repairs. But that’s why help exists. Public adjusters (licensed professionals who handle claims for you) can take on some of the burden, and experienced property damage attorneys can step in when the stakes are high or the insurer is digging in their heels. Our observation: the sooner you challenge an unfair denial or low offer, the better your chances of getting it turned around. Don’t give up – that’s what some insurers bank on.

(On a personal note, we have seen firsthand how heartbreaking it is when a family’s legitimate claim is wrongly denied. We’ve walked through homes where the ceilings are collapsed and everything is ruined, yet the insurance letter says “denied – pre-existing damage.” It’s infuriating and unfair, and it’s precisely why we do what we do.)

Resolution: Getting Your Property Damage Claim Resolved

Facing the aftermath of a Texas storm can feel like an uphill battle – but there are resolutions in sight. The key is to be proactive and informed about your options. Here are some possible routes to resolve your property damage claim and rebuild:

• Reinspection or Appeal: If you disagree with the insurance adjuster’s estimate or denial, you can request a second inspection. Provide any new evidence (more photos, contractor opinions, engineering reports) that supports your case. Some insurance companies have an internal appeal process or escalation department – ask if a more senior claims examiner can review your claim. Be polite but firm about the specific points of disagreement. Sometimes, a fresh set of eyes at the insurer might revise the decision, especially if you present solid documentation.

• Appraisal Process: Many Texas insurance policies include an appraisal clause. This is an out-of-court procedure where you and the insurer each hire an independent appraiser, and those two select an umpire. They review the scope of damage and costs, and a binding decision on the amount is made. Appraisal can be a faster, less contentious way to settle the amount of loss (though it usually doesn’t decide coverage disputes – it assumes the claim is covered, but the value is in question). If your dispute is mainly “How much should they pay?”, an appraisal might be a good route. Just be aware you may have to pay your appraiser, and if the gap with the insurer isn’t huge, it might not be worth it.

• Negotiation and Settlement: Throughout the process, maintain communication with your insurance company (or their representatives). Many times, a negotiated settlement can be reached. The insurer may agree to cover more items, or you can compromise on a cash amount that you find acceptable. If you’ve involved a lawyer, they will handle these negotiations with the insurance company’s lawyers or adjusters. The vast majority of claims, even disputed ones, do eventually end in a settlement without going to trial. The goal is to get the funds you need to repair and move on. Make sure any settlement is in writing and clearly states what it covers (and any release of further claims) before you sign off.

• Lawsuit (if necessary): If all else fails, legal action may be required. This is usually the last resort due to the time and expense, but it’s sometimes the only way to get justice on a valid claim. By suing the insurer for breach of contract (and possibly bad faith), you put the decision in the hands of the courts. Texas has strong laws protecting policyholders, and courts have, at times, slapped insurers with hefty judgments for wrongful denials or egregious delays. Often, just filing the lawsuit will bring the insurer back to the table to talk about a settlement. If you do end up in litigation, a reasonable attorney will guide you through the process and explain the risks and rewards. Remember that two-year statute of limitations – if you’re approaching that deadline and still haven’t been paid fairly, filing suit might be critical to preserve your claim.

Rebuilding and moving forward is the ultimate goal. It can take months or even longer for significant repairs, especially when contractors are overwhelmed after a big storm. While insurance money (hopefully) funds this, also look into disaster assistance if the event was declared a federal disaster – FEMA grants or SBA loans can help fill gaps, especially if insurance falls short or you lacked some coverage. Texas communities are strong, and when one of these record-breaking storms hits, neighbors and local organizations often step up too.

Why JCE Law Group Is Your Best Ally After the Storm

When you’re fighting an uphill battle on a storm damage claim, having the right ally can make all the difference. This is where JCE Law Group comes in. We’re not just attorneys – we’re Texans who have weathered the same storms and helped our neighbors pick up the pieces. Our team understands the intricacies of Texas insurance law and, more importantly, we know the frustration and stress you’re feeling.

Why choose JCE Law Group to help with your Texas storm damage claim? Here are a few reasons:

• Deep Experience with Texas Storm Claims: From Gulf Coast hurricanes to Panhandle hailstorms, we’ve handled property damage claims of all types across Texas. We know the common tactics insurance companies use in these cases, and we know how to counter them. Whether it’s invoking appraisal, leveraging the Texas Insurance Code provisions, or taking an insurer to court for bad faith, we’ve been there before and achieved results for our clients.

• Local Insight and Personalized Support: We don’t operate from some far-off corporate tower – we’re part of the Texas community. We’ve sat at kitchen tables with families whose homes were wrecked by storms, mapping out a game plan to get them justice. We’re familiar with local contractors, adjusters, and even specific insurance companies that frequent our region. That local insight means we can move efficiently. And when you call us, you get genuine empathy and personal attention, not just legal jargon. We treat you like a neighbor, because you are.

• Aggressive Advocacy (When It’s Needed): Some cases can be settled with a few calls and letters. Others require a fight. If an insurance company is digging in its heels, JCE Law Group is prepared to fight tenaciously on your behalf. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators but also fearless litigators. Insurance companies have lawyers – you deserve a strong legal advocate, too, to level the playing field. We push for every dollar you’re entitled to under your policy.

• No Upfront Cost to You: Property damage can strain anyone’s finances. The last thing you need is to worry about legal bills. JCE Law Group works on a contingency fee basis for these cases – that means you don’t pay us unless we win compensation for you. We also offer free consultations to evaluate your claim. This arrangement lets you get quality legal help without adding to your financial burden.

• Commitment to Client Education and Transparency: Insurance claims and lawsuits can be confusing. We make it a point to explain each step in plain language. You’ll know what we’re doing, why we’re doing it, and what to expect. Our goal is not only to resolve your claim but also to make you feel supported and informed throughout the process.

Hiring JCE Law Group means having a dedicated team in your corner so you can focus on rebuilding your life while we handle the battle with the insurance company. We take that burden off your shoulders. In the wake of Mother Nature’s fury, let us help turn the tide back in your favor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do immediately after my Texas storm damage claim is denied?

If your claim is denied, don’t panic and don’t assume that “no” is the final answer. Request clarification in writing on why it was denied. Then, gather evidence: get independent repair estimates and take photos (or collect any you already have). You can appeal the decision with your insurer by providing this supporting information. If that doesn’t lead to a reversal, consider reaching out to the Texas Department of Insurance to file a complaint and consult a property damage attorney. Often, a carefully drafted letter from a lawyer pointing out the weaknesses in the denial can prompt the insurer to revisit your claim.

2. How long do I have to file an insurance claim for storm damage in Texas?

It’s best to file your insurance claim as soon as possible after the damage occurs. Most insurance policies require “prompt” notice – check your policy, as some even specify a number of days. There’s also a legal deadline (statute of limitations) to keep in mind: in Texas, you generally have 2 years to file a lawsuit if a claim dispute isn’t resolved. This doesn’t mean you should wait two years to act on your claim (definitely don’t!), but it’s a backstop to preserve your rights. Practically, try to at least initiate the claim within days or weeks of the storm. If you absolutely can’t (for example, you were displaced), insurers may excuse a reasonable delay, but it’s safer to avoid any argument that you failed to notify timely.

3. Does my homeowners’ insurance cover all types of storm damage?

Standard homeowners’ insurance covers many, but not all, types of storm damage. Generally, wind and hail damage (from hurricanes, tornadoes, thunderstorms) is covered. So things like a torn roof, broken windows, or interior rain damage from a wind-created opening should be covered. What’s not covered by a regular policy is flooding (rising water from heavy rain, overflowing rivers, storm surge, etc.) – that requires separate flood insurance. Also, earthquake damage is not covered (though not typically an issue in Texas storms). Another gap can be sewer backup; if heavy rain overtaxes the sewer and it backs up into your home, that’s only covered if you added a specific endorsement. It’s crucial to read your policy and see the exclusions. If you’re in Texas, consider flood insurance if there’s any risk – many people learn too late that their devastating flood damage isn’t covered at all under homeowners’ insurance.

4. What if the insurance payout isn’t enough to cover repairs?

This is a common issue. If the payout you receive is too low, you do not have to accept it as final. You can reopen or supplement the claim. Start by reviewing the adjuster’s report – what did they include or miss? Perhaps they underestimated material costs or left out some damage entirely. Provide the insurer with a contractor’s estimate that shows the higher costs, and ask for additional funds based on that. Most insurers will consider new information and adjust the claim if justified. If they refuse and you’re stuck with a shortfall, you might explore the policy’s appraisal clause (as mentioned earlier) to resolve the value dispute. And again, involving a lawyer can be helpful – insurers often make more reasonable offers when an attorney is advocating for you. The bottom line: you’re entitled to the full cost of returning your property to pre-storm condition (minus deductible). Don’t hesitate to keep pushing until that’s achieved.

5. Do I need a lawyer for a Texas storm damage insurance claim?

Not every claim requires a lawyer – many minor or straightforward claims get paid without issue. However, if you’re facing a denial, significant underpayment, or delay on a central claim, a lawyer can be extremely valuable. Texas insurance policies and laws are complex, and insurance companies have experts working for them; having your expert (an attorney experienced in property claims) helps level the playing field. A lawyer can handle the heavy communications, gather supporting evidence, negotiate with the insurer, and file a lawsuit if needed. This often results in a higher payout or a faster, fairer resolution. Plus, consulting with a lawyer can bring peace of mind – you’ll know your options and rights. Remember, most property damage attorneys (including our firm) offer free consultations and work on contingency, so it won’t cost anything upfront to get legal help. In short, you can certainly try on your own first, but if you hit a wall or sense unfair treatment, involving a lawyer is a smart move to protect what’s likely your most significant investment – your home.

How a Texas Property Damage Lawyer Can Help You Recover After the Storm

The next step is yours. Texas’s historic 2025 storm season has left a trail of wreckage, and navigating the aftermath isn’t easy. If you’re struggling with an insurance claim or unsure of your rights, don’t go it alone. Getting help from a knowledgeable property damage lawyer can make all the difference in reclaiming your home and peace of mind. Remember, insurance companies have experts working for them – you deserve an expert on your side, too. Whether you choose to consult with JCE Law Group or another professional, the important thing is to take action. Your home is your sanctuary, and when Mother Nature tests it, you have the law and resources in Texas to rebuild and recover. Don’t let a denied or underpaid claim add insult to injury. Reach out for legal guidance, know your options, and protect your rights – your future self will thank you when you’re safe, secure, and fully recovered from the storm.

If your Texas storm damage claim has been denied, delayed, or underpaid, don’t fight the insurance company alone. JCE Law Group is here to help you get the compensation you deserve. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency basis; you don’t pay unless we win. Call us today at (504) 754-5884 or visit Contact Us to speak with a Texas property damage attorney who understands your situation and knows how to fight back.