TDI tips for wildfire losses

​​​AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Insurance​ (TDI) recommends the following tips to those suffering property damage in the wake of the recent wildfires:

Contact your insurance agent or company promptly. ​Keep a record of all contacts you have with your company. Be prepared to answer questions concerning the extent and severity of the damage. 

Record a list of damaged property. Photograph or video the damage if possible. Don’t dispose of damaged items until an insurance adjuster has had a chance to see them.

Take steps to minimize further damage. Make only repairs necessary to protect your home and property from further damage, such as covering broken windows and holes to keep rain out and prevent theft. Don’t make permanent repairs​​ until instructed by your insurance company. Save all repair receipts. 

Try to be there when the adjuster inspects the damage. Be sure your address is visible on the property. If you must move out of your home temporarily, leave a note or plywood sign with your temporary address, phone number and name of your insurance company.

Ask your agent about additional living expenses or loss of use. Your policy may pay for some of your expenses if you are unable to live in your home because of a covered loss. Document your expenses. 

For more information, call TDI’s Consumer Help Line at 800-252-3439. Visit TDI’s StormLink page for storm recovery information.