Hey y’all – if a Texas storm left your home damaged, you’re probably scrambling through the insurance process. This friendly guide walks you through each step, with realistic 2025 timelines and plain-language definitions.

The 2025 hailstorm that swept through Central Texas caused serious damage to thousands of homes — from dented gutters and shattered windows to complete roof replacements. If you’re a homeowner in Texas, especially in places like Austin, Round Rock, or Cedar Park, this post is your ultimate guide to navigating the insurance claim process with confidence.

We’ll break it all down step by step — from what to do immediately after the storm to how to deal with adjusters, hire contractors, and get your full payout.

Step 1: Document the Damage Immediately

Before you clean up anything or make repairs:

• Take high-quality photos and videos of all visible damage: roof, gutters, siding, windows, fences, vehicles, decks, HVAC units, and more.
• Photograph the hailstones next to a coin or tape measure for size comparison.
• Log the date, time, and location. Save news articles or weather alerts to help validate your claim.
• Write down a list of everything damaged, from roof shingles to water leaks inside your home.

This becomes your evidence. It matters more than you think.

IF you have temporary fixes done to prevent further loss (tarp a hole, board up windows, etc.), do not make permanent repairs until an adjuster inspects the property.

Save receipts for these emergency repairs. Review your policy or ask your agent about your coverage right away.

Step 2: File Your Insurance Claim

Most providers have made this part easier. Go to your insurer’s:

Texas law requires insurers to acknowledge your written claim within 15 days of receiving it.

If they need more time (for a disaster area, they can extend by up to 15 more days), they must notify you in writing.

Nowadays, most of the process is through a mobile app or online.

• Go to your insurer’s website or mobile app. Most have an easy “file a claim” option.
• You’ll answer questions about:
  • What was damaged
  • When the storm hit
  • What kind of repairs you think are needed
• Submit photos if it lets you. Some insurers now allow uploads right in the app.
• Write down your claim number and the adjuster’s name (once assigned).

Texas law alert: Insurers also have 15 days to acknowledge a claim and 15 business days to approve or deny it once documents are submitted.

Step 3: The Adjuster Visit — Don’t Go It Alone

Once your claim is filed, an insurance adjuster will come inspect the damage (typically within 1–2 weeks unless many claims are flooding in). Be there for the inspection and here’s the key: Have a roofer or trusted contractor present during the inspection.

Why? Because:

• Adjusters work for the insurance company, not you.
• Subtle damage (like lifted shingles or dented flashing) often goes unnoticed.
• Your roofer can point out all damage and advocate for a more complete and accurate estimate.

During the visit you and your contractor will:

• Be home to walk through the property.
• Your contractor should take notes and photos too.
• Show the adjuster all the damage – point out water stains inside, fallen trees, etc.
• Keep your tone professional and stick to facts (avoid speculating about causes or admitting fault)
• Take detailed notes of the adjuster’s findings and get a copy of their report if possible.

Adjusters base their estimate on visible damage and your policy terms

Think of the adjuster as the company’s inspector – but you can make the process smoother. Be polite, prepared and factual when talking with them. Have your photos, inventory list, repair estimates, and receipts organized.

Avoid vague phrases (“I think”, “maybe”) or any admissions of fault – stick to clear facts. If something seems missed, politely point it out. If you’re hiring a contractor, communicate with both the adjuster and contractor: you can even have your contractor review the adjuster’s report before finalizing repair.

Step 4: Make Only Emergency Repairs

If you’ve got leaks, shattered windows, or exposed wood:

• Use tarps, boards, or temporary seals to prevent further damage
• Keep all receipts — you can submit these for reimbursement

Avoid major repairs until the adjuster completes their review. Starting too early could complicate the claim.

Throughout the repair process, keep all receipts and records. Once repairs are done, submit final invoices to your insurer so they can release any remaining recoverable depreciation.

In Texas, supplemental claims (for new or missed damage) follow the same legal timeline: the insurer must acknowledge them in 15 days and pay approved supplements in 5 days. If they drag their feet or underpay, keep following up and hold onto every email and letter.

Step 5: Review the Insurance Estimate Carefully

After the inspection, you’ll receive a Scope of Loss or estimate from your insurer. It looks like a line-item spreadsheet and includes:

Under Texas law, once the claim is approved, the insurer must issue payment within 5 business days. In practice, a first check often includes the “Actual Cash Value” (ACV) of damage minus your deductible – that’s the depreciated value of losses at time of loss (more on that below).

Insurance jargon can be confusing. Here are the big key terms to understand:

• Replacement Cost Value (RCV):
  • Pays to repair or replace damaged property without deducting for depreciation. (You’ll initially get ACV, then later the “recoverable depreciation” after repairs.)
• Actual Cash Value (ACV):
  • Pays for the current value of the damage – i.e. replacement cost minus depreciation. For example, a 10‑year‑old roof might be worth much less than new.
• Deductible:
  • The amount you pay out of pocket before insurance kicks in. (In Texas, wind or hail losses often have higher deductibles – sometimes a percentage of your home’s insured value.)
• Depreciation:
  • The loss of value in an item due to age/wear. Insurers calculate depreciation based on an item’s life expectancy.
    • Most policies hold back depreciation from the initial check, but you can recover it by showing proof you replaced or repaired the item.
    • Don’t be surprised – this is standard. It’s also negotiable: if you believe depreciation is too high, ask for documentation and challenge it.

The remaining balance (recoverable depreciation, if you have Replacement Cost coverage) is paid after you complete repairs.

Overall, expect the entire process to take several weeks to a few months (after big storms it can be slower). If things drag on, you can nudge the company or even contact TDI for help.

What to check:

• Does it include your gutters? Windows? Interior paint or drywall?
• Are the quantities and damage descriptions accurate?
• Compare it to your contractor’s quote. If things are missing, ask for a supplemental claim or re-inspection.

Step 6: Understand Texas Deductible Laws

This trips up a lot of homeowners:

• Texas law prohibits waiving deductibles — it’s insurance fraud
• You must pay your deductible by law — contractors who offer to “waive it” are putting you at legal and financial risk

Your deductible is the portion of repair costs you’re responsible for out of pocket before insurance pays the rest. Many Texas homeowners have a 1% or 2% deductible, which is based on the insured value of your home.

For example:

• If your home is insured for $400,000 and you have a 1% deductible, you’ll owe $4,000 before insurance kicks in.

Tips:

Avoid any contractor who says they can “work around” the deductible — it’s not worth the risk.

Plan ahead for this cost — it’s non-negotiable. You’ll need to show proof that you paid it if your insurer asks.

Step 7: Hire a Qualified Contractor and Start Repairs

Most claims settle reasonably, but sometimes you’ll get a check that feels too small, or nothing at all. First, talk to the insurer: ask for itemized explanations and submit any additional proof (photos, receipts, expert estimates) to support your claim. If you missed damage, file a supplemental claim – Texas law requires insurers to process supplements promptly (15-day acknowledgement, then 15 business days to decide, 5 days to pay). Keep detailed records of all communications.

Once your claim is approved:

• Choose a licensed, insured contractor — preferably one experienced with insurance claims
• Avoid storm chasers or out-of-town pop-up roofers
• Sign a written contract detailing scope of work, payment schedule, and warranties

Most policies pay in two parts:

1. Initial payment after the claim is approved
2. Recoverable depreciation after repairs are complete and proof is submitted

Step 8: Submit Final Invoices & Collect Final Payment

After work is finished:

• Submit all paid invoices and photos to your insurance company
• Request the final depreciation check

If any additional damage or missed items arise, your contractor can help file a supplemental claim to get those covered.

What If You’re Denied or Underpaid?

Don’t give up. You have options:

If the insurer still won’t budge, you have options. You can request an appraisal or independent review (if your policy allows) or even hire a public insurance adjuster. Public adjusters are licensed professionals who work for you, not the insurance company. They understand policies and can maximize your claim – just be sure to verify their license with TDI and understand their fee (capped by law).

• Request a re-inspection
• Submit contractor estimates and new evidence
• Hire a public adjuster (they take a percentage but work for YOU)

You can also escalate through official channels. The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) protects consumers and enforces your “Homeowners’ Bill of Rights.”

If your insurer ignores deadlines, misleads you, or denies without solid reason, consider filing a complaint with TDI.

You can file online or call TDI’s helpline at 800-252-3439.(If you prefer, the Texas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division also handles insurance complaints.)

In the worst case, you could consult an attorney for bad-faith insurance practices. But often a firm letter or a TDI inquiry is enough to get an underpaid check corrected.

Final Thoughts: You’re in Charge

You’re not at the mercy of your insurer. You don’t have to accept the first estimate, use their contractor, or stay quiet if something feels off.

Take control:

• Be Prompt and Proactive:
  • File ASAP and stay on top of the process. Texas law is on your side with strict response deadlines – insurers must reply quickly.
• Keep Everything in Writing:
  • Save every email, letter and estimate. Written records can make or break a supplement or dispute.
• Use Licensed Pros:
  • If hiring contractors or public adjusters, verify they’re licensed. TDI’s Helpline (800‑252‑3439) can check public adjuster licenses.
• Ask Questions:
  • Don’t hesitate to ask your insurer to explain anything unclear (like how depreciation was calculated). Insurance jargon is confusing, and a good agent or TDI consumer advocate should clarify.
• Know Your Rights:
  • If dissatisfied, TDI offers a Homeowners Bill of Rights and a complaint process. You can also contact the Texas Office of Public Insurance Counsel for group issues (not individual cases).

Your policy is a contract. Use it to your full advantage.

Want help with gutters, roof inspections, or contractor guidance? Contact Dan’s Gutters — we work with both homeowners and roofers to make sure nothing gets missed in your claim.

Stay safe, Texas!