Learning from Winter Storm Uri: Lessons to Protect Your Property
Learning from the Past. Preparing for the Future.
Winter storms can be unpredictable and, at their worst, incredibly destructive. For many, Winter Storm Uri in 2021 was a stark reminder of just how vulnerable properties can be to freezing temperatures, heavy snow, and power outages. From frozen pipes to roof collapses, Uri caused billions of dollars in damages for homes and businesses.
With another Arctic blast on the rise for Southeast Texas and neighboring regions, now is the perfect time to revisit these lessons and ensure your property is ready. Whether you’re a homeowner, a business owner, or someone responsible for managing a property, preparation makes all the difference here.
How to Prepare for Storms This Winter
Shield Your Structure: Wrap exposed pipes, especially in attics or garages, and add foam covers to outdoor faucets. Keep cabinet doors open to let warm air reach indoor pipes. Check your heating system and seal gaps around windows and doors. Trim weak branches that could snap under ice or snow.
Plan Ahead: Stock up on essentials like non-perishable food, water, portable chargers, and plenty of blankets. Review your insurance policy for coverage details.
Stay Safe: Use space heaters and generators only in well-ventilated areas to avoid carbon monoxide risks. Keep warm by layering clothes and closing off unused rooms.
Inspect and Document: After the storm, document any damage with photos, report claims promptly, and watch for hidden issues like leaks or cracks that could worsen over time. If pipes are frozen, thaw them carefully using a hair dryer or heater.
Insights from the Field:
Our team saw countless examples of how preparation—or the lack thereof—impacted outcomes during Winter Storm Uri. Some property owners who had reviewed their policies and taken preventive steps were able to recover quickly. Others faced roadblocks due to gaps in coverage or delayed claims.
One particularly notable claim involved a Texas church that experienced significant water damage when the building's sprinkler pipes froze and burst. This resulted in flooding throughout the property, impacting critical areas for their operations. By thoroughly documenting the damage and leveraging an in-depth understanding of the church's policy, we were able to secure a multimillion-dollar settlement. This case highlights not only the importance of preparation but also the value of having experts guide you through the complexities of the claims process to ensure a full recovery.
Knowledge Is Power
When it comes to winter storms, being proactive can save time, money, and stress. Protecting your property, understanding your insurance policy, and staying organized during the claims process are essential to staying ahead of potential damage.
At The Justice Claims Group, we want to share as much knowledge as we can to help you feel empowered and prepared to face any challenges these storms may bring. We’re here to offer insights and advice, so you can focus on what matters most—keeping your home and business safe.
By learning from events like Winter Storm Uri, you can take steps today to minimize damage and recover faster tomorrow. Stay prepared, stay safe, and don’t hesitate to reach out with questions about protecting your property or navigating insurance claims. Together, we can weather any storm.
