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Wind Damage Claims

Claims for wind damage often stem from hurricanes and other storms. Depending on the strength of the storm, wind can rip shingles from a roof, damage gutters and destroy landscape. Whether or not your wind damage is covered depends on where you live. Some Texans are surprised to find out their damage is not covered because they live too close to the coast.

Adjusters do not always work in your best interest. They may act like your friend, but they are only doing so in an attempt to have you reveal information that could damage your claim. Some adjusters may go as far as unjustly denying your damage claim, which is against the law.

Wind Damage Insurance Attorney in Texas

Contact legal counsel immediately if you believe your insurance company has acted in bad faith. Doing so is a violation of your rights as a policyholder and may warrant litigation. The attorneys at LeMaster & Ahmed, PLLC are proven insurance litigators who will fight tooth and nail on your behalf. They will use their experience to your advantage and ensure you receive the best possible settlement under the terms of your policy.

Call (866) 984-4556 to schedule a time to speak with Ms. Ahmed and Ms. LeMaster. We are based in The Woodlands and Plano, but regularly assist clients across the state of Texas including Montgomery County, Harris County, Collin County, Galveston County and Dallas County.

Damage Caused by Hurricane Force Winds

Nearly 60 hurricanes have hit southern Texas since the National Weather Service began keeping track. These storms bring powerful winds with the potential to cause destructive damage. Depending on the category of the storm, hurricane force winds can range from 74 mph to 157 mph or higher.

Listed below is the damage hurricane winds can cause:

Damaged or destroyed roofs
Ripped shingles
Damaged vinyl siding and stucco
Gutter damage
Fallen trees and branches
Busted windows
Removed roof decking and gable ends
Damage to exterior walls
Wall collapse
Destroyed homes

Does My Insurance Cover Wind Damage?

Whether or not your insurance covers wind damage will depend on where you live. Both homeowners and commercial property insurance provide wind coverage, but not if you live along the Texas Coast or in Harris County along Galveston Bay. Those living more inland, though, are typically covered.

Simply because a basic policy does not include wind coverage does not mean you cannot be protected. You can purchase additional wind coverage if it’s not included in your package. It’s advised you do, especially if you live along the coast.

Also, keep in mind that hurricane wind damage may not be protected unless you also have hurricane coverage. Many homeowner policies have an anti-concurrent causation clause. This clause states that when two disasters coincide, and the homeowner is only covered for one, then the insurance company will not cover the damage.

Can I Sue My Insurance Company?

Texas policyholders have the right to sue their insurance company. Various situations may warrant litigation. Some of these situations include:

Refusing to pay a claim without conducting a reasonable investigation
Failing to accept or reject a claim within a reasonable time
Failing to provide a prompt, fair and equitable settlement
Delaying a settlement on the basis other coverage may be available
Refusing to pay a claim because of race, gender, religion or other characteristics

Consult with an insurance attorney if you believe your insurance company has mistreated you. They can evaluate your situation and advise you on the best course of action. If you prevail in court, you can recover up to three times the amount of a claim, attorney fees and other damages deemed appropriate by the court.

Additional Resources

Homeowners Insurance | Texas Department of Insurance – Visit the official website of the Texas Department of Insurance to learn more about wind coverage and homeowner’s insurance. You can also learn about additional risks covered by standard policies and find information about deductibles. The Texas Department of Insurance is responsible for regulating insurance in the Lone Star State.

Damage Due to Hurricane Winds | National Hurricane Center – Follow the link provided to find information about hurricane wind damage. You can view the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale and see the potential damage for each storm category. You can also gain access to hurricane history and stats. The information can be found on the official website of the National Hurricane Center.

Texas Insurance Lawyer for Denied Wind Damage Claims

Many people are quick to call their insurance company when their property suffers damage. However, it is important to consider that you may need the help of an insurance lawyer after your insurer is given notice of a claim. An insurance lawyer can help you gather all the information you need to finalize a claim, advise you on how to negotiate with adjusters and represent you in court if necessary.

Ms. Ahmed and Ms. LeMaster have spent their careers representing insurance companies. They are well aware of the tactics they use to limit their liability and will work to ensure that you are not taken advantage of. Call (866) 984-4556 to schedule a case evaluation. LeMaster & Ahmed, PLLC assists policyholders across the state of Texas such as Montgomery County, Collin County, Harris County, Galveston County and Dallas County.