A Texas-sized hailstorm has caused extensive damage to your property. After assessing the harm, you know substantial repairs will be needed, but how long do you have?
The answer to your question hinges on the fact that most insurance policies include a “notice of loss” clause, meaning you must notify your insurance company early so they can assess whether the damage to your property was caused by the particular hailstorm. Generally, this must be done within a year or two of the storm, depending on your specific policy. Because deadlines can vary, it is always best to act fast. When wondering how long you have to file a damage claim after a Texas hailstorm, turn to Kirk Law Firm.
Timing Is Critical
Hailstorms can do a number on your home, car, and belongings. Because you pay your insurance faithfully, you may expect your insurance company to cover the cost of the repairs. Filing your hailstorm claim on time is critical to making this happen, as missing the deadline could leave you stuck paying out of pocket. Insurance companies require prompt reporting to figure out if the hailstorm is the true cause of the damage. If you are wondering how long you have to file a hailstorm damage claim in Texas, it is important to understand that there are likely multiple deadlines at play.
Basic Deadlines
There are two basic deadlines to keep in mind when looking to file a claim.
Insurance Deadlines
Specific policy provisions will govern damage claims. Most policies in Texas give you one to two years to file a hail damage claim. The exact timeframe depends on your policy.
Statute of Limitations
There is no state law setting a deadline for filing hail damage claims. However, Texas has a two-year statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit in the event you need to sue your insurance company after a wrongful denial.
Steps to Take After a Hailstorm
Hailstorms can come out of nowhere, and the damage they cause can be extensive and costly to repair. After the passing of a hailstorm, take the following steps:
- Inspect your property for damage, including bruised shingles, paint damage, dents, cracked glass, or other issues
- Collect and document the evidence by taking clear photos and videos of everything
- Review your insurance policy to understand the deadlines and specific requirements
- File and claim by notifying your insurance company and providing your collected documentation
- It is often prudent to contact an attorney like Kirk Law Firm before filing your claim to make sure that you are filing your claim properly and protecting your rights.
Filing a claim as soon as possible is important, and documenting the damage a Texas hailstorm has caused could help streamline the process.
When to Call an Attorney
If your insurance company gives you the runaround—delaying or denying your claim—call in the pros to provide you with the legal help you need. Texas sets a strict statute of limitations deadline of two years for lawsuits relative to property damage, so you need to act quickly if considering legal action.
Insurance policies are confusing to read and analyze, and companies may try to take advantage of the fact that not everyone is an insurance expert. At Kirk Law Firm, we know how frustrating it can be to deal with insurance companies, and our lawyers could help you get the coverage you need.
Contact Kirk Law Firm to Discover How Long You Have to File a Hailstorm Damage Claim in Texas
If your property has taken a beating from a hailstorm, do not put off filing an insurance claim. Check for damage, take photos, and read your policy. Then, contact Kirk Law Firm to help you file a claim as soon as you can. If your claim has been filed but you are hitting roadblocks dealing with your insurance company, give us a call. Kirk Law Firm is here to help you at every step of the process to get what you deserve.
