Before the storm

Why should you close interior doors during a storm?

Storms in Texas often happen with little or no warning. Being prepared helps protect your family and property and can save you time and frustration if you file an insurance claim.

Make an inventory

Make a list of the items you own and update it at least once a year. Include the serial number, value, and date you bought each item. Take pictures or videos of each room in your house, including the closets and drawers. If you file a claim, the list and pictures will make the process faster.

Learn more: You need a home inventory

Find your insurance cards and policies

Make copies of your paper documents or email them to yourself so you'll have them if you need to leave your house. If you have health, auto, or homeowners insurance cards, put those in the bag you'll take if you leave.

Know your deductible

The deductible is what you have to pay before the insurance company will pay. Most companies subtract your deductible from the amount it owes you. For example, if you have a claim for $1,000 and a deductible of $300, the insurance company will deduct $300 from your claim check.

Learn more: What to know about deductibles

Know where you can see a doctor

Know the ways you can get health care if you leave your area. This might mean using a doctor outside your network. Ask your plan if you’ll have to pay more. Also know your other options, like which urgent care centers are in network and your telehealth options.

Learn more: Care options and costs

Review your coverages

Make sure your insurance policies are up to date and provide enough coverage. Your coverage limits might be too low if you’ve built onto your house or bought new furniture or electronics. Learn more: Do you have enough home insurance?

Depending on your situation, you might think about buying:

Renters insurance. It pays to repair or replace personal property (things like your clothes, furniture, and electronics) if they are stolen or damaged.
Learn more: Do you need renters insurance.
Flood insurance: Homeowners policies don’t cover damage caused by floods. Learn more about wind, flood and the other types of insurance you can buy.
Comprehensive auto coverage. Comprehensive (other than collision) coverage will pay to repair or replace your car if it's damaged or destroyed by hail, wind, fire, or flood.
More coverage for jewelry or art. Homeowners policies limit what they’ll pay for things like jewelry and art. If you own expensive jewelry, art, or other items, talk to your agent about adding more coverage.