After a storm hits, it’s natural to want to begin the recovery process immediately. You should make temporary repairs as soon as possible. However, before you begin any repairs, walk around your property and take photos of the damage. Sometimes you may find something that you weren’t aware of when you filed your claim, and your documentation may help us process your claim more quickly.
Keep any damaged property until the field adjuster sees it and approves of disposal. Do NOT make permanent repairs, or replace or dispose of any damaged items before first discussing it with a TWIA claims examiner. Doing so may impact your ability to get fully reimbursed for your repairs.
Temporary Repairs
Keep invoices and receipts for your temporary repairs. If your loss is covered by the policy, reasonable costs for temporary repairs may be covered.
Temporary repairs include:
- Covering openings with tarp or plastic to prevent additional water damage
- Removing trees which caused damage to a covered structure
- Boarding up broken windows and doors
- Drying out water damage and wet areas immediately with fans
- Interior water removal
- Removal of soiled carpet and sheetrock
Do not make permanent repairs, such as a roof replacement or asphalt patches, until after the adjuster has completed an inspection. The adjuster needs to be able to see the damage and determine if it is from wind or hail.
Permanent Repairs
Whether or not you ultimately have a covered claim, you may need to make permanent structural repairs to your property. To be eligible for insurance through TWIA, many structural repairs must be certified by a Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) appointed qualified inspector or by a Texas licensed professional engineer.
Certificates of Compliance (WPI-8, WPI-8-E, or WPI-8-C) certify compliance with the applicable windstorm building code for the area. Without a Certificate of Compliance, TWIA lacks evidence that the structure conforms to the applicable building code, and the structure may be considered ineligible for coverage with TWIA. The WPI-8 certification inspections are done before and during the repair process, if completed by a TDI inspector. Learn more about Certificates of Compliance.
For More Information
Please contact your insurance agent if you have any questions about your policy and the coverages it provides. If you have a TWIA claim you would like to discuss, contact us through the Policyholder Portal or by calling (800) 788-8247.
