TDI Helpful Hints Every Texas Homeowner Should Know
- David Reyes
- Mar 26
- 3 min read
Simple Tips from the Texas Department of Insurance That Can Save You Money and Stress
Living in Texas means preparing for unpredictable weather — from hurricanes and hailstorms to flash floods and scorching heat. That’s why the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) provides helpful resources and reminders to help homeowners stay protected, informed, and ahead of the storm.
Below are a few practical TDI-approved tips every homeowner should know when it comes to property damage, insurance claims, and storm recovery.
1. Review Your Insurance Policy Before Storm Season
Don't wait until a hurricane is in the Gulf. Review your policy each year to:
Make sure your coverage limits match your home’s current value
Understand what’s excluded (like flooding, roof age, or cosmetic damage)
Learn your deductible type — some windstorm and hail deductibles are calculated as a percentage of your home's value
💡 Tip: Ask your agent to walk through your policy with you in plain language.
2. Get a Windstorm Certificate (WPI-8) if You Live Near the Coast
If your home is located in certain coastal counties or cities in Texas (like La Porte, Pasadena, or Seabrook), roof repairs may need to follow specific building codes. TDI may require you to get a Certificate of Compliance (Form WPI-8) after work is done to prove your roof meets code.
Learn more: tdi.texas.gov/wind
3. Choose Your Roofing Contractor Carefully
After a storm, contractors may go door-to-door offering quick, cheap repairs — but be cautious. TDI recommends you:
Avoid contractors who only accept cash or ask for full payment upfront
Verify the contractor’s name, address, references, and insurance
Get multiple written bids and signed agreements
Only work with contractors familiar with the Windstorm Inspections Program if required
🚩 Red flag: Contractors who aren’t based locally or who won’t provide a warranty.
4. Take Photos and Keep Records for Claims
Before and after the storm:
Take pictures of your roof, walls, belongings, and property
Keep receipts for emergency repairs and temporary lodging
Log every conversation with your insurance company, adjuster, or contractor
This documentation can help if your claim is delayed, underpaid, or denied.
5. Know Your Rights When Filing a Claim
TDI outlines specific timelines that insurance companies must follow after you file a claim:
Acknowledge receipt of your claim within 15 days
Approve or deny your claim within 15 business days after receiving all documentation
Pay approved claims within 5 business days of notice
If these deadlines aren’t met, you can contact TDI to file a complaint or get support.
6. Watch Out for Fraud and Scams
Sadly, natural disasters often bring out bad actors. TDI warns homeowners to watch for:
Unlicensed contractors
Fake adjusters or people pretending to work for your insurance company
High-pressure tactics or deals that seem too good to be true
Verify licenses through tdi.texas.gov or call (800) 252-3439.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're preparing your home or picking up the pieces after a storm, knowing what to do — and who to trust — can make all the difference. Bookmark the TDI site, talk to your insurance agent, and don’t hesitate to ask questions before signing anything.
Get Help From Trusted Pros — Before or After the Storm
If your home was damaged or your claim was denied, we can help you understand your options.
✅ Free Property Damage Assessment
✅ Insurance & Claim Support
✅ Connection to Trusted Contractors & Partner Attorneys