Recent Hailstorm Costliest in Texas History

The massive hailstorm that struck San Antonio and Bexar County in April will cost an estimated $2 billion.  This recent hailstorm is the costliest in Texas history.  Hailstorms can cause significant damage to homes and businesses.  Roofs can be lost.  Siding can be destroyed.  Water can enter homes or businesses through the damaged areas.  This water can ruin warehouse contents putting companies out of businesses.  Water entering walls and homes through hail damaged siding can run people out of their homes.

There is no doubt that hailstorms can cause millions of dollars of damage.  The tab for the April 12^th San Antonio storms is expected to exceed $2 billion.  That includes $560 million in damage to vehicles and another $800 million in damage to homes and businesses.

The Softball Size Hailstones Caused Lots of Damage to San Antonio Homes & Businesses

The National Weather Service reported that some hail reached 4 1/2 inches in diameter.  The softball sized hail damaged roofs and knocked holes through car windows.  The $2 billion dollar estimate does not include those without insurance.

Losses from home and car owners without insurance is also expected to be high.  The vast amount of financial costs associated with rebuilding after the storm emphasizes the need for insurance.  Knowing your coverage and making sure that you have the right coverage before the storm can be critical to making sure you can afford to repair your home, business, or vehicle.

The $2 billion total surpasses a hailstorm that struck Fort Worth on May 5, 1995.  To date, the Fort Worth storm was the most expensive hailstorm recorded in Texas.  The Fort Worth storm caused an estimated $1.1 billion in damage.

Beware of Fraud after the Storm

Be wary of unscrupulous roofing contractors.  Plenty of roofers will come out of the woodwork after a storm looking to make a quick buck.  Ask for references and check them out with the Better Business Bureau before hiring anyone.

Also, public adjusters might use the storm to profit off of storm victims.  If you are approached by a public adjuster looking to appraise the damage to your home or business, be cautious.  Fly by night companies may solicit you, even though you may not need them.

Be sure to report damage to your home or business to your insurance company right away.  And keep any receipts from repairs or necessary purchases.  Most of all, don’t be victimized twice by fraudsters.