Homeowners in the Coastal Bend are aware of the potential danger, costs, and frustration of hurricane season. As many are predicting more active weather systems this year with the potential to strengthen into hurricanes, it is a good time to consider everything you will need to address the worst-case scenario.
- Go Over Your Insurance Policy: Since South Texas can be particularly vulnerable to hurricanes, make sure and take a look at your homeowner’s insurance policy and other relevant documentation such as windstorm coverage, which may be separate from your homeowner’s policy. Windstorm covers damage from wind and wind-driven rain to your home.
- Flood Insurance: Homeowner’s insurance may not cover flooding. If your home is prone to flooding, confirm with your insurance company what your coverage is and consider purchasing separate flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
- Dwelling Coverage: Most homeowner’s insurance covers the cost to rebuild in the event of a total loss of your home. Check your dwelling coverage amount and consider if it’s enough to rebuild at current costs.
- Talk to Your Agent: Reach out to your insurance agent and discuss your specific needs and concerns. They can help you understand your policy, advise on coverage amounts, and ensure you have the right protection.
- Discounts: Some insurance companies offer savings for things like hurricane shutters or impact-resistant windows.
- Flood Insurance: Homeowner’s insurance may not cover flooding. If your home is prone to flooding, confirm with your insurance company what your coverage is and consider purchasing separate flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
Here are some resources that you might find helpful:
- The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP): National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
- Texas Department of Insurance: Texas Department of Insurance
- Texas Windstorm Insurance Association: https://www.twia.org/
- Texas Department of Insurance: Texas Department of Insurance
In case your home experiences damage from hurricane, take into consideration:
- Safety: Don’t step out onto a wet or damaged roof. Try and get a view from the ground with binoculars to check for damage.
- Document As Much as Possible: Take clear photos and videos of all visible damage to your roof and other areas of your home like siding, windows, and doors. This will be important for insurance claims and for contractors to assess repairs.
- Temporary Fix: If you are able to safely do so, cover any holes or leaks with a tarp to prevent further water damage.
- Get in Touch With Your Insurance Company: File your claim as soon as possible. They will guide you through the claims process and may send an adjuster to inspect the damage.
- Reputable Roofers: Try to avoid out-of-town “storm chasers.” The estimators and roofers with Berryman Roofing have over 30 years of experience serving Corpus Christi and the Coastal Bend area. We do recommend comparing our proposals with our competitors and we can help elaborate on differences in costs, materials, and warranties to confirm you are getting the best value for your time and money.
While no one can accurately predict what will happen this hurricane season, it is possible to plan for the steps needed to verify insurance coverage on your home and know the next steps in case of damage. For any questions and to find out how we can make sure your roof is ready for what may come, contact Berryman Roofing to help give you peace of mind.