What to do After Hurricane Damage in Victoria

As the worst storm to hit the United States in twelve years, leaving close to $200 billion of damage behind it, Hurricane Harvey affected the residents of the Texas Coastal Bend like few other storms. Thousands of home and business owners are experiencing everything from roof damage to a total loss of their property. Victoria residents join those wondering what to do after hurricane damage in Victoria.

There are several steps you should take to make sure your insurance company stays on top of your property claim. You’ve been paying them money for years to make sure your home is protected. It’s not unreasonable for you to expect them to deliver the service they’ve promised. If you aren’t sure what to do after hurricane damage in Victoria, consider the following.

• Because of the thousands of claims being filed, many insurance companies have set up special hotlines and deployed catastrophe teams to the most affected areas in an effort to field the large influx of reports. Be sure you take the time to contact your insurance company to put them on notice of your damages. You can also get help from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for additional help.
• Take good notes of any conversation you have with our insurance company and their representatives. Note any names, dates, and specific issues you discuss. This could become an important resource for you should any discrepancies arise.
• In advance of the adjuster coming to inspect your damages, take good photos and video of your property. Make an inventory of any personal items damaged or lost. Your insurance company will ask you for this information, so it’s best to be prepared ahead of time.
• If there are any holes, broken windows, or other damage that could possible lead to further damage to your property, make any temporary repairs necessary to keep that from happening. Your insurance policy has a clause placing an expectation on the policyholder to mitigate their damages.

One of the sad realities in the wake of a storm such as Hurricane Harvey, is the increase in scam artists looking to take advantage of people when they are at their most vulnerable. This may come in the form of contractors asking knocking on your door and asking for large sums of money up front to repair your home or offering to waive your insurance company’s deductible.

You might also hear from individuals who will tell you they can assist in filing your claim for a fee. It’s important you remain diligent and be aware of any suspicious activity. If you see anyone or anything that doesn’t seem legitimate, don’t hesitate to contact the police and report it.

We hope this helps you in understanding what to do after hurricane damage in Victoria. Of course, you can do everything right but still arrive at a disagreement with your insurance company. When this happens, it’s important to know you have someone on your side. That’s why our lawyers are standing with you.

If your home was affected by Victoria Hurricane Harvey wind damage, the Victoria hurricane insurance claims lawyers of Carabin Shaw are here to make sure your insurance company does what they say they will do.

Our team of attorneys in Victoria is hard at work with homeowners filing Victoria hurricane claims. Our lawyers have a wealth of experience and resources to make sure your rights as a homeowner are protected and your insurance company doesn’t take advantage of you.

If you’re in Victoria and need help dealing with your insurance company, give us a call. Your first visit with one of our lawyers is free of charge. We will discuss your situation, explain your rights, and let you know what to expect as you try to get back on your feet.

To schedule a free consultation with one of our lawyers in Victoria, give us a call today at 361.485.1400.