Storm Damage & Insurance Claims Hub

Texas Storm Damage: What Every Homeowner Should Know

Central Texas sits in the heart of Tornado Alley, directly in the path of the severe weather systems that sweep north from the Gulf of Mexico each spring and fall. The Austin-Round Rock metro averages more than 60 days of thunderstorm activity per year, with hail being the single largest cause of residential roof damage in Texas. In 2023, Texas homeowners filed over $3.5 billion in hail-damage insurance claims — more than any other state.

What To Do Immediately After a Storm

1. 1

   Stay Safe — Don't Access the Roof Yourself

   After wind, hail, or heavy rain, structural damage may not be visible from the ground. Wet roofing materials are extremely slippery. Call a licensed contractor to perform the inspection rather than climbing up yourself.

2. 2

   Document Everything Within 72 Hours

   Photograph damage to your siding, gutters, HVAC units, and any interior water intrusion. Date-stamp all photos. Insurance adjusters require proof that damage occurred during the storm event, not from previous wear-and-tear.

3. 3

   Apply Emergency Protection Before Filing

   If there is an active leak or exposed decking, a temporary roof tarp should be applied before the next rain event. Most insurance policies require homeowners to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage — this protects your claim.

4. 4

   Get a Roofing Contractor Inspection Before the Adjuster Arrives

   A qualified roofer can document granule loss, dented vents, cracked ridge caps, and bruised shingles that are easy for non-specialists to miss. Having an independent inspection report strengthens your claim and ensures the adjuster doesn't underestimate the scope of damage.

5. 5

   File Your Insurance Claim Promptly

   Texas law (TIC §542A) gives insurers 15 days to acknowledge your claim and 5 business days to accept or deny it after receiving all documentation. Most policies have a 1-year deadline from the date of loss to file — don't let that window close.

6. 6

   Choose a Local, Licensed Contractor to Complete Repairs

   After a major storm, out-of-state "storm chasers" flood the area offering quick low-cost repairs. Always verify a contractor holds a Texas roofing registration, is properly insured, and has verifiable local references before signing any contract.

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