As we enter peak hurricane season, businesses in Houston face heightened risks from severe storms, flooding, and property damage. Consulting with a Hurricane Damage Lawyer in Houston can help ensure you understand your insurance coverage and take the necessary steps to protect your property, operations, and employees. Reviewing your policies now can save your business time, money, and stress when a hurricane strikes.
Assess Your Current Coverage for Key Risks
Don’t wait until a storm is forecast. Now is the time to review your insurance coverage for wind, flood, and other hurricane-related risks.
Windstorm and Hail Coverage
Many standard commercial property insurance policies provide some coverage for wind damage, but in hurricane-prone areas like Houston, this may be excluded. You may need a separate windstorm policy or endorsement. Confirm what your policy covers to avoid gaps.
Flood Insurance
Flooding and storm surge are typically not covered under standard commercial property policies. A separate flood insurance policy is required, either through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer. Keep in mind that NFIP policies often have a 30-day waiting period, so act early.
Debris Removal & Ordinance Coverage
Check your policy for coverage and sublimits on debris removal. Also, ensure you have ordinance or law coverage if local building codes require upgrades during reconstruction.
For a free legal consultation, call (800) 941-1041
Review Your Business Interruption Policy
Business interruption insurance protects your revenue and covers ongoing expenses if your business must temporarily close due to storm damage.
- Covered costs: Lost net income, employee payroll, and extra operating expenses during recovery.
- Coverage limits & waiting periods: Make sure your policy can handle a prolonged shutdown and know when coverage begins.
- Ingress & egress coverage: Protects against lost income if roads or property damage prevent access to your business.
- Contingent business interruption & civil authority coverage: Covers losses from supply chain disruptions or government restrictions.
For guidance on maximizing your coverage and protecting your business during storms, consult a Houston Business Interruption Insurance Lawyer.
Update Deductibles, Valuations, and Records
- Hurricane deductibles: Policies in high-risk areas often have a separate, percentage-based deductible for hurricane-related claims.
- Asset valuations: Ensure coverage limits reflect current property, equipment, and inventory values. Rising construction costs can leave older valuations insufficient.
- Document & store records: Keep detailed inventories, photos, videos, and insurance documents in a secure, off-site location.
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Develop a Pre-Storm Action Plan
Before a hurricane:
- Secure outdoor equipment, signage, and windows.
- Move valuable inventory and electronics to higher ground.
After a hurricane:
- Document damage extensively with photos and videos before starting repairs.
- Keep receipts for mitigation efforts and related expenses.
- Report claims promptly and follow all post-loss duties outlined in your policy.
Our hurricane damage attorneys are experienced in handling claims and negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf. We’ll gather the necessary evidence, advocate for your rights, and take legal action to help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Reach out to Barcus Arenas, PLLC, today. Our knowledgeable team provides better advice and stronger advocacy, and we’re ready to help you protect your business and move forward after a hurricane.
Call or text (800) 941-1041 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
