How and When to Report Storm Damage to Your Insurer

The short answer

Report as soon as you reasonably can; most policies require prompt notice, and some set specific time limits for claims or lawsuits. Read your policy’s ‘Duties after loss’ and ‘Suit against us’ sections, and get your claim number in writing.

Where the deadlines live in your policy

• Duties after loss (or similar): usually asks for prompt notice, protection of the property and a sworn proof of loss if requested.
• Suit against us or Legal action against us: often sets a time limit for filing a lawsuit.
• Appraisal: may set its own steps and timing. How appraisal works

If you can’t find these sections, ask your agent or broker for a complete copy of the policy, including endorsements.

What to tell the insurer

Give the facts you know: the date and type of storm, the address, what is damaged, and what you have done to protect the property. You don’t have to guess at the dollar amount or the cause on the first call. It’s fine to say you are still assessing.

Get it in writing

• The claim number.
• The adjuster’s name, phone and email.
• A short email after each call summarizing what was said.

The Texas Department of Insurance advises contacting your agent or company right away to start the claims process.

Next: what to expect when the adjuster inspects · how to document the damage.

Sources

• TDI: How to file a home insurance claim (PDF)
• Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance: Impacted by a tornado or storm?

Last checked: October 28, 2026. This is general information, not legal advice.