B-0010-15

To: ALL COMPANIES, CORPORATIONS, EXCHANGES, MUTUALS, RECIPROCALS, ASSOCIATIONS, LLOYDS, OR OTHER INSURERS WRITING PROPERTY AND CASUALTY INSURANCE IN THE STATE OF TEXAS AND TO OTHER AGENTS AND REPRESENTATIVES AND THE PUBLIC GENERALLY

Re: Weather-related event occurring on April 16, 2015, through April 19, 2015

In accord with Texas Insurance Code §542.059, and 28 TAC §5.9303, the Texas Department of Insurance has determined the weather-related event occurring on April 16, 2015, through April 19, 2015, in the counties of Harris, Travis, Brazoria, Montgomery, Fort Bend, Tarrant, Dallas, and Johnson is a catastrophe for the purpose of claims processing.

Claims resulting directly from the above-defined catastrophe in the counties listed above will be subject to the additional time periods authorized by Texas Insurance Code §542.059 for the processing of claims.

This declaration is based on the representation that the additional time periods are necessary due to the large volume of claims resulting directly from the above-defined catastrophe and with the further understanding that insurers will continue to promptly identify, evaluate, and resolve these claims. Insurers must promptly acknowledge receipt of a claim and make appropriate assignments for the investigation of a claim. Policyholders should continue to receive the timely service that they expect and should not be delayed in receiving the benefits that they deserve because of the additional time periods.

David C. Mattax
Commissioner of Insurance