Texas Storm Claim Deadlines: Know the Clock Before You Hire

The claim clock is part of your protection

East Texas storm season does not end when the radar clears. The next risk is rushing a contractor pitch before you understand how a Texas homeowners claim is supposed to move.

The Texas Department of Insurance’s Home insurance guide (Consumer Bill of Rights material; page updated June 1, 2026) lays out deadlines after you file: the company must tell you it got your claim within 15 days, accept or deny the claim within 15 business days of getting all the information it needs, and send payment within five business days after it agrees to pay. A company that needs more time can take up to 45 days to decide—but it must tell you why. If those payment deadlines are missed, TDI notes you may be able to pursue the claim amount plus interest and attorney fees.

That is not a promise every file pays on day five. It is the public rulebook so you are not guessing while someone at the door says “we’ll handle the insurance.”

What to do in the first 48 hours

TDI’s after hail or windstorms checklist is practical: file as soon as you can if hail or strong winds damaged the home; photograph and list damage inside and out; prevent further loss (cover openings, remove standing water) and keep receipts; be available for the adjuster; ask about additional living expenses if you cannot stay in the house.

TDI’s disaster-claims FAQ adds a line homeowners miss: temporary repairs to protect the house are generally OK, but do not make permanent repairs until you have talked with the insurance company—and take pictures before you do any work.

Storm-chaser warnings that still apply

Get more than one bid or repair estimate. Check references. Do not pay in full up front, and do not make the final payment until work is done. Avoid contractors who offer to waive your deductible—TDI says that is illegal under state law. Never sign a contract with blank spaces.

Through East Texas Roof Quotes you can request a free roof quote from a local roofer, who will look at what is actually on the roof. East Texas Roof Quotes doesn’t handle insurance claims. See what is actually on the roof before you lock in a scope or a claim story. We do not invent carrier outcomes, and we do not promise a deductible disappears.

Takeaway: After a storm, document first, file on the TDI clock, make only temporary repairs, and get a local inspection before you hire anyone who wants to “handle insurance” for you.

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