TWIA Insurance Claims Lawyers

TWIA Insurance

Texas homeowners know the Lone Star state’s weather can be unpredictable and costly. Since 1980, over 180 climate disasters have affected Texas, each resulting in over $1 billion in losses. Of these, 126 were severe storm events that brought damaging hail, tornadoes, and wind. 

As vital as insurance coverage can be for homeowners in Galveston, TX, not every homeowner can obtain such coverage from the private market. The Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA) is a residual insurer that can step in and fill this potentially costly void in coverage.  

Although TWIA is a not-for-profit entity, homeowners can still have TWIA claims unfairly denied. When this happens to you, be prepared to take action quickly. Contact Brasher Law Firm to assist you in protecting your rights and property. 

What Is TWIA Insurance?

Some individuals might be asking, “What is TWIA insurance?” TWIA in Texas began in 1971 in response to primary insurers restricting coverage for wind damage in the aftermath of several hurricanes that struck the Gulf Coast. Homeowners in Galveston, TX, soon found that they were without reasonable options for coverage for wind and hail damage. 

What Does TWIA Cover?

Much like a traditional insurance company, TWIA in Texas writes policies and provides coverage for 14 counties and a portion of Harris County. TWIA policies act to supplement certain gaps in coverage homeowners in these areas experience. TWIA in Texas is a limited insurer of last resort and only covers damage from wind and hail. 

Claims Process for TWIA in Texas

If you suffer a wind- or hail-related loss in Galveston, or the Texas Gulf Coast, and your policy is with TWIA, contact TWIA to begin the claims process. You must report your loss within one year, or your claim may be time-barred. This means you will not receive any payment for your claim, even if it is otherwise valid and meritorious. 

After reviewing your policy and contacting TWIA, you will want to: 

• Make temporary repairs to your property to protect it from further damage 

• Avoid making permanent repairs until your claim is approved 

• Cooperate with the field inspector from TWIA, who will inspect your property 

• Expect a decision on your claim within 60 days 

If your claim is approved, TWIA will issue you a check for your claim within ten days of approval. 

When Your TWIA Claim Is Denied

TWIA does not have to approve your claim in full. It can deny your claim in its entirety, partially approve your claim, or approve your claim but for an amount that is less than your deductible. If you disagree with how TWIA has handled your claim, you have rights but must act quickly. 

You must notify TWIA that you are disputing their decision on your claim within 60 days of the date you received TWIA’s decision. Before you can file a lawsuit against TWIA and seek payment, you must participate in alternative dispute resolution (ADR) efforts like mediation. If you do not participate in ADR within 60 days of TWIA’s request, you will lose your ability to file a lawsuit. 

If you are not satisfied with mediation, you may thereafter file a lawsuit against TWIA so long as you do so within two years of its decision regarding your claim. 

Contact Brasher Law Firm for Help With Your TWIA Claim

Brasher Law Firm is committed to helping Texans in Galveston, and the Gulf Coast, recover after devastating storms damage their property. If you have a wind-and-hail policy with TWIA but have concerns about your coverage, give us a call. We can help you complete the claims process and appeal any unfavorable or unfair decisions. The sooner you contact Brasher Law Firm, the faster we can assist you in resolving your claim.