A Guide to Time Limits for Filing Hail Damage Claims in Texas

Dealing with hail damage to your home or business can be extremely frustrating. Not only do you have to assess and repair the damage, but you also have to file an insurance claim to recover repair costs. Knowing the time limits for filing hail damage claims in Texas is critical to get fully compensated.

This guide will cover:

• The statute of limitations for filing hail damage claims in Texas
• Why it’s important to file promptly after a storm
• The claims process and timeline
• How an attorney can help if your claim is denied
• Tips for speeding up your claim

Follow these best practices when filing an insurance claim after hail damage in Texas. Acting quickly and diligently puts you in the best position to maximize your storm recovery.

Statute of Limitations for Hail Damage Claims in Texas

In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of a hailstorm to file an insurance claim related to that event.

This two-year period is known as the statute of limitations – the deadline to take legal action in Texas. Failing to report hail damage within two years could result in your claim being denied or only receiving partial reimbursement.

Some key notes about the statute of limitations:

• The two-year countdown begins on the actual date the hailstorm occurred.

• The deadline applies even if you did not notice the hail damage right away or took time to fully assess the extent of damage.

• For extensive storms impacting large areas over a period of time, exceptions may extend the filing period, but two years is the standard.

• The deadline to file can be extended if you have a legitimate reason for a delay (like being out of town). But it is best to report as soon as possible.

• If your claim is denied, you have two years from that date to file a lawsuit against the insurance company if necessary.

Bottom line – you need to act promptly after discovering hail damage. Don’t risk losing out on reimbursement for repairs by missing a deadline.

Why It’s Important to Report Hail Damage Quickly

There are a few reasons why you should report hail damage as soon as possible after a storm rather than waiting:

Prevent Further Damage – Even minor damage like dents or cracks in roof shingles can eventually lead to leaks, mold growth and structural issues if left unaddressed. The sooner repairs are made, the less risk of problems down the road.

Avoid Claim Denials – Insurance companies often drag their feet handling claims. Reporting late gives them an excuse to deny your claim if they assert the damage could have occurred in a different storm outside the limitations period.

Receive Full Compensation – Hail damage that worsens over time due to delays in filing claims may only be partially covered by your insurer. Submitting promptly accurately documents losses from the event.

Speed Repairs – Early filing means getting in the repair queue more quickly after a widespread storm when contractors are very busy. You don’t want to be still waiting for reimbursement when the next storm hits.

Prevent Fraud – There are examples of unscrupulous contractors creating damage after a storm to inflate repair costs for insurance claims. Reporting promptly proves existing damage from the storm.

The faster you start the claims process, the smoother it will be. Don’t jeopardize your recovery by postponing filing.

Typical Hail Damage Claim Process and Timeline

When you suffer hail damage, there are some general steps to go through to file an insurance claim:

1. Document the Damage (1-3 Days)

• Inspect your home or building thoroughly inside and out. Look for dents, cracks, missing shingles and other damage.

• Take numerous photos and videos of all damage. Document the date.

• Get written statements from any witnesses who saw the hailstorm occur and can verify damage.

2. Report Damage to Your Insurer (Same Day)

• Call your insurance company as soon as possible to report damage. Ask for a claim number.

• If damage is extensive, have a contractor provide repair estimates to submit.

3. Claims Adjuster Inspects Damage (3-21 Days)

• An insurance adjustor will come inspect in person once you submit a claim.

• Walk them through all the damage during the inspection. Share your documentation.

4. Receive Estimate of Damages from Adjuster (1-2 Weeks)

• Based on their inspection, the adjuster will provide an estimate of repair costs covered.

• If you disagree with their assessment of damage, provide documentation supporting your position.

5. Claim is Approved and Repairs Made (Weeks to Months)

• Once approved, your insurer will issue payment to you or directly to repair contractors.

• Hire contractors to make repairs promptly.

Delays can happen at each step. Having an experienced attorney assist can expedite a fair resolution.

What if Your Hail Damage Claim is Denied?

In some cases, an insurance company may outright deny a hail damage claim in Texas. Some common reasons for denial include:

• Assertion the damage was pre-existing or caused by a different event.

• Alleging you waited too long to file the claim past the statute of limitations.

• Stating the damage does not meet your policy’s deductible amount.

• Claiming an exclusion in your policy applies or the damage is not covered.

If your claim is denied, you have two years from the date of denial to file a lawsuit against your insurer challenging their decision. An attorney can help determine if the denial has legal merit or represents a breach of contract.

Having an experienced lawyer fight improper denials can be the key to recovering rightful compensation. They have expertise navigating policy terms, proving damage was from the reported event, and negotiating firmly with insurers.

Do not simply accept a denial at face value without exploring your options. Consulting an attorney from the outset when filing your claim often results in faster approvals and full payouts.

Tips for Expediting Hail Damage Claims in Texas

Here are some tips for streamlining the claim process to get your hail damage claim paid promptly:

• Report early – Again, this is vital to avoiding denials and delays. Call your insurer immediately after a storm.

• Document thoroughly – Provide extensive photographic evidence, witness statements, repair estimates, etc. to prove and quantify damages.

• Retain an attorney – Hiring legal counsel experienced with storm claims ensures you have an advocate applying pressure to resolve the claim fairly.

• Send regular status inquiries – Follow up continually with your insurer to check claim status rather than waiting for updates.

• Escalate matters – If you are unsatisfied with claim handling, request a supervisor review and reassessment.

• Consult regulatory agencies – Unresolved claims can be reported to your state Department of Insurance to prompt an investigation into the insurer’s conduct.

With the right preparation and diligence, you can recover from a damaging hailstorm without the added frustration of insurance delays. Use these best practices to file hail damage claims successfully in Texas and get your property repaired.