Did your home suffer storm damage? Here's how to get the most out of your insurance

HOUSTON — The Texas Department of Insurance regulates insurers and provides free tips, resources and support for Texans dealing with storm damage. TDI.Texas.gov provides both online and over-the-phone support.

For those who have filed a claim with their insurance company, TDI recommends keeping a record of everyone they’ve talked to.

Also, remember to take plenty of pictures and videos of the damage. During the cleanup process, TDI to not throw anything away until an adjuster tells you to do so.

TDI also says to only make temporary repairs, like covering broken windows, until an adjuster sees the damage for themselves. And remember to keep all receipts.

If the home suffered too much damage to be lived in, ask the insurance company if they provide help with living expenses as most companies cover some of those costs.

TDI also recommends asking insurance companies about advanced payment if help is needed quickly.

When it comes to contractors, get multiple bids.

Never pay a full or large down payment upfront. If a contractor offers to waive the deductible, take that as a warning sign. That’s illegal in Texas and could leave the homeowner stuck with the whole bill.

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