Storms are getting bigger, more frequent, and more severe. Texas families are left to pick up the pieces. On this page, we have gathered some of the best resources to help you and your family.
WARNING: Some policies may have quick reporting deadlines for storm damage. Survey your property, and if you have damage, contact your insurance company NOW to report it. Document everything, including communications with your insurance company. Take photos of any damage and save all receipts. Read your insurance policy so you know your rights. Click here for our Top 5 Consumer Tips for Insurance Claims.
The resources on this page are intended for general information purposes only. Individual matters differ, and the information provided is not a substitute for legal advice. If you need legal advice, the State Bar of Texas provides an information service here.
Please check your city, county, or local government's website for more resources, or dial 3-1-1.
Insurance Resources
Recovering from Winter Weather (Office of Public Insurance Counsel)
Tips on what to do next if you need to file an insurance claim, find someone to fix your house, and other resources.
Information on Claims (Office of Public Insurance Counsel)
Information on how to file a claim, what to do during a claim, and what to do if you have problems with your claim.
Insurance Tips Following Winter Storms (Texas Department of Insurance)
How to file a claim, avoid fraud, and other resources. See also: Help after the storm (Texas Department of Insurance)
Roadmap to Recovery (United Policyholders)
Resources for insurance guidance.
Steps to Get Full and Fair Flood and Wind Insurance Payments (Consumer Federation of America)
Tips from a hurricane catastrophe, but still applicable for winter storm damage.
In 2017, the insurance lobby pushed a bill through the Texas Legislature that lessens penalties if insurers slow pay claims and puts hurdles in front of property owners who are forced to take their insurance company to court due to "deny, delay, underpay" tactics. It was sold as dealing with hail claims and roof damage, but the legislation broadly applies to property damage claims arising from "forces of nature," including snowstorms. Known as the "Blue Tarp Bill," it skews the law in favor of powerful insurance companies. Learn more about how this impacts your rights by clicking here.
Hiring a contractor resources
Top 5 Consumer Tips for Finding a Contractor (Texas Watch)
Our tips for how to avoid scams and fraud when hiring a contractor.
Hiring a Contractor: What's the Difference Between Bonded and Insured? (Angi)
Explaining the difference between a contractor that is bonded and insured, and why this matters for repairing your home.
Top 5 Contractor Scams (and How to Avoid Them) (House Logic)
What contractors say that could be red flags of a scam.
Contractor Fraud Expert Warns of 7 Home Improvement Scams to Avoid (My Move)
Tips on how to avoid fraud when hiring a contractor.