DALLAS (WBAP/KLIF News) – As cleanup and damage assessment continues in North Texas following severe storms and an EF-3 tornado that tore through parts of Dallas Sunday night, thousands of insurance claims have already been filed.
State Farm’s Chris Pilcic tweeted that more than 2100 customers filed claims so far with many reporting damage to their homes by wind and almost 900 cars damaged by debris.
“We’re seeing damage from the tornado touching down. We’re seeing damage from some winds. We’re seeing damage from some hail as well,” said Camille Garcia with the Insurance Council of Texas.
Residents in Garland, Richardson, Rowlett and Sasche reported widespread damage to homes and structures due to severe storms and a few tornadoes.
The National Weather Service confirmed and EF-1 tornado touched down in Rowlett and an EF-0 tornado hit just north of Wills Point in Van Zandt County.
While many North Texans may be used to the storm season, insurance industry insiders note that there is still a large swath of residents who don’t know the ins and outs of filing a claim.
Garcia said the first step is for home or car owners is to assess and document their damages.
“If you got a hole in your roof and you need to get that tarped…get that tarped. Save your receipts. Take photos. Take video. Whatever you need to do in order to prove your damage to your claims adjuster. Don’t make any permanent repairs until you’ve had that conversation with the claims adjuster.” she said.
Garcia adds that its also important to do some research on and give serious thought to any contractor competing for a job once it’s time to begin repair work.
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