Hurricane season runs from June through November. To prepare, the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) recommends you make a home inventory, review your insurance policies, consider buying flood insurance, and check the condition of your windows and roof to reinforce your home’s hardiness where you can.
In 2001, TDI, the Texas Division of Emergency Management, and the Institute for Business & Home Safety founded the Texas State Disaster Coalition. Members of the coalition, including dozens of stakeholders from the Red Cross to insurance companies, can be activated as part of TDI’s disaster response.
Before hurricane season, TDI staff make sure coalition members have what they need. Also, TDI volunteers commit to join disaster response teams as needed.
Randall Evans, who heads the Consumer Protection Division, said: “As the frequency and severity of storms have increased, we have adjusted the model of our disaster program and increased our resources, escalating our readiness.”
After a hurricane, TDI’s role is to give insurance-related information to the public, handle consumer complaints, and make sure that filed claims are handled appropriately. Staff also investigate unfair or illegal practices.
“The Texas Department of Insurance prepares for weather disasters year-round,” said TDI Commissioner Cassie Brown. “We are ready to help Texans.”
Have an insurance question or concern? Call TDI’s Help Line, 800-252-3439, weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central time.
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