Do you have a denied tornado damage insurance claim?

According to statistics, on average, the state of Texas experiences the most tornadoes each year. Due to their very nature, with strong sustained winds that can exceed over 200 miles per hour, along with the added force of tornado suction, tornadoes can be one of the deadliest weather events that humans can encounter.

Obviously, the strong winds that accompany a tornado can easily destroy homes, businesses, and other structures such as detached garages and sheds. They also have the capability of uprooting trees and hurling vehicles. Even the best of roofs is no match for the wind damage that a tornado can leave behind. Additionally, flying debris is often a contributing factor to broken or fractured windows and damaged siding.

If you have questions about property damage that you have sustained as a result of a tornado, then call our law offices at 877-890-6372. We will be happy to schedule a free consultation with you and explain your legal rights and options when it comes to tornado property damage claims.

What EF Tornado Level Can Destroy a House?

Tornadoes begin to be capable of destroying a home when they reach the EF-2 and EF-3 range.

EF-2 winds are between 111 and 165 miles, and EF-3 winds are 136-165 miles per hour. These winds can easily decimate a home, as it can only take roughly four seconds for a house to be wiped off of its foundation. Roofs can also be completely torn off, and large trees can be uprooted and fall into a home causing serious damage, injury, or death to the inhabitants.

An EF-4 has violent winds of between 166-200 miles per hour, and an EF-5 has winds that measure over 200 miles per hour. Tornadoes classified as EF-4 and EF-5 are devastating not just to homes but to entire communities as well. When tornadoes at this level of the EF scale strike, the rebuilding process can take months and even several years to be completed.

Can I Make Temporary Repairs After a Tornado Has Damaged My Property in Texas?

After the tornado has passed and you have determined that the area is safe, make an inspection of your property and take note of all of the damage that you have sustained. There are several vital steps that you need to take to ensure that your claim will not encounter problems at a later time. They include:

  • Call your insurance company and report that you have sustained damage to your property.
  • Take video and pictures of the damage. It is important to remember not to throw anything away until approved by your claims adjuster.
  • Make temporary repairs in order to prevent more damage, such as covering broken windows and tarping a roof to keep rain and other elements out.
  • Keep an inventory of all the repairs that you have made, Be sure to keep all of your receipts for materials or supplies that you purchase to make repairs.
  • Do not make permanent repairs until the claims adjuster has an opportunity to assess the damage.

Do I Need to Hire an Attorney to Help Me With a Tornado Damage Claim?

It is always best to consult with an attorney before you file a property damage claim. Often, if the paperwork that is involved in filing a claim is incomplete or contains errors, your claim could be seriously delayed or even denied. We review all aspects involved in your claim and may make any necessary recommendations.

Contact our law firm and schedule an appointment with a member of our legal time by calling 877-890-6372. We greatly look forward to serving you.