Austin Hailstorm: What to Do If Your Property Was Damaged
- Thomas M. Furlow
- May 29
- 2 min read

The destructive hailstorm that swept through Austin on May 27, 2025, brought with it baseball-sized hail and wind gusts up to 77 mph—leaving behind a trail of damage that many residents are still struggling to assess. With over 70,000 power outages, shattered windows, flooded streets, and extensive roof damage reported, this storm was a painful reminder of how quickly life can be upended by Texas weather.
If your home, vehicle, or business was affected, here’s what you need to do now.
Step 1: Prioritize Safety
Before anything else, make sure your property is safe to enter or stay in. If you notice exposed wiring, structural instability, or flooding:
Avoid using electricity or entering unstable rooms
Contact emergency services if you’re unsure about safety
Seek temporary shelter if necessary
Step 2: Document Everything
Thorough documentation is critical to getting your claim approved. Even if repairs have already started:
Take photos and videos of all damage: roofs, ceilings, siding, windows, flooring, vehicles, and personal belongings
Keep a written inventory of damaged items, with estimated values if possible
Save all receipts for temporary repairs, lodging, or supplies
Step 3: File Your Insurance Claim Promptly
Even if you’re unsure whether the damage will be covered, contact your insurance company immediately:
Request an official inspection
Don’t allow delays—many policies require timely notification
Ask for a copy of your full policy and declarations page
If your insurer is not responsive or undervalues your claim, legal help may be necessary.
Step 4: Don’t Sign with a Contractor Too Soon
It’s common to see contractors canvassing neighborhoods right after storms—but be cautious:
Avoid signing contracts under pressure
Get multiple quotes and verify licenses, insurance, and local references
Be wary of “storm chasers” from out of town
Never assign your insurance benefits without understanding the full terms
Step 5: Know Your Rights
Insurance companies are obligated to handle your claim fairly and promptly—but unfortunately, that doesn’t always happen. You may face:
Delayed or denied claims
Lowball repair estimates
Claims that your policy doesn’t cover certain types of damage
At Furlow Law Firm, we specialize in holding insurance companies accountable. If you feel your claim has been mishandled or delayed, we can help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you’re owed.
You’re Not Alone—We’re Here to Help
Storms like the one Austin experienced this week can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate recovery alone. Whether you're just starting your claim or already facing roadblocks, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Call Furlow Law Firm today to schedule a free consultation about your hail or storm damage claim.
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