Storm damage-related businesses see flood of customers from South Plains

July 06--Damage-related businesses have been busy following the barrage of storms West Texas has seen so far this month.

Roofing, window, glass and insurance businesses in Lubbock all said the majority of customers have been from outside of the city, with Levelland and Anton area residents seeking the most services.

"We've had our share of highway time this week," said Jeff Tate, sales manager at Hartman Roofing.

Tate estimated that the roofing company typically gets three to seven calls a day for standard service issues. This past week, he said they have received 15 to 20 calls a day, with the biggest issues being wind damage and leaking roofs.

Other area businesses have seen similar issues. Neal Alexander, owner of Glass Doctor in Lubbock, said he has seen lots of hail-damaged vehicles this week. When it comes to vehicle repairs, Alexander said customers have to prioritize what they fix first.

"On the auto glass end of things, people have to get their cars secure and drivable, and then get body shop issues done at another time," Alexander said.

Glass Doctor has received several calls about damaged building windows as well, Alexander said, with high winds being the main culprit.

The expense of repairing storm damage can be unexpected, said both Tate and Alexander, but both companies said they work with customers to help get them the best deal they can.

"It's a big financial burden and an inconvenience," Alexander said. "So, tempers and moods are at their highest. We try to teach our employees that we're dealing with people's two largest investments: their vehicle and their home."

Insurance can help cover the costs of some vehicle- and storm-related issues, but not all, said Kyle Fannin with Cam Fannin Insurance. For example, flooding caused by burst pipes is usually covered in basic home insurance. However, flooding caused by weather is often only covered in extended plans.

The majority of issues West Texas has recently seen -- wind, hail and fire damage -- is covered by basic home insurance, Fannin said. Comprehensive auto insurance policies will cover weather-related damages.

Fannin said most people contact their insurance provider as soon as damage occurs, but preventing further damage is important.

"We always tell our clients that anything they can do to prevent further damage until they contact their company, maybe it's on a Sunday or super late at night, that's always a good thing to recommend," Fannin said.

Unfortunately, storm damage is often unavoidable, the three businessmen said. Cars can be covered, but little can be done to protect structures. Tate reminded those in need of repair services to choose reputable and insured companies to work with.

"When they're out looking for a contractor, make sure that they're licensed and carry insurance," Tate said. "If there is a problem down the road, you have somebody to back you up."

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