AUSTIN, TX — Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) Commissioner Jose Montemayor recently issued a bulletin to all insurance companies in Texas to “fully and clearly” explain any changes in coverage to customers when it is time to renew insurance policies for residential property.

Montemayor also issued a brochure titled, “Effectively Handling Water Damage and Mold Claims: A Consumer Guide.” The guide is for insurers and consumers, and explains how to handle water damage claims and reverse the number of mold-related claims.

“My goal is a more stable market where consumers understand their options and can shop successfully for the insurance they need at reasonable prices,” said Montemayor. “The suggested practices [in the brochure] are designed to foster speedy responses to water damage claims by both the insurance industry and consumers. The Department fully expects insurers to streamline claims handling procedures for handling water and mold damage claims and, whenever possible, respond to these claims in accordance with the suggested practices contained in the brochure.”

For a copy of the brochure, go to www.tdi.state.tx.us (website).

Publication date: 07/15/2002