Texas Watch—Consumer Protection. Corporate Accountability. Citizen Advocacy.

Hurricane season officially starts today.  As the season begins, Texans along the coast must prepare for the possibility of this year’s storms. However, this time of the year can also serve as an important reminder for inland Texans as well.  Whether you live in the hurricane zone or not, take time to review your homeowners insurance policy now to make sure you have the coverage you need before it’s too late.

Even if you don’t face the threat of a hurricane, a wildfire or hail storm could devastate your property.  The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) recently released an informative Insurance Protection sheet that explains their preparation recommendations.

Here are Texas Watch’s tips for insurance preparation:

• Review your policy every year and make sure you have the coverage you need. Policyholders need to have enough coverage to fully protect themselves in the event of a total loss. In particular, pay attention to the exclusions and policy limits written into your policy and be aware of the deductible and type of replacement cost. Click here for more information from Texas Watch on reviewing your insurance coverage. The Texas Department of Insurance also has created a useful handout comparing homeowners, wind and flood insurance policies.
• Take an inventory of the contents of your home now. This information can be vital if you have to file a claim with your insurance company. View Texas Watch’s comprehensive homeowners insurance inventory list here.
• In case disaster does unfortunately strike, we have some advice for how to deal with your insurance company. This can often be an overwhelming process, and hopefully these tips will help make the task less daunting.
• Lastly, if you are treated unfairly by your insurance company, file a complaint with the Texas Department of Insurance at 1-800-252-3439 and call our Insurance Hotline (1-888-738-4226). Click here for more information on how to file a complaint against an abusive insurance company.