A tropical storm can cause significant damage to a city and to a person’s home. Whether you’ve dealt with roof damage, flooding, fallen trees, structural damage, or insurance problems after Tropical Storm Arthur hits Harvey, LA, you shouldn’t have to face these challenges alone.
Having your family’s home damaged or destroyed can leave you overwhelmed, but Ron Austin Law can help you in the legal process.
About Ron Austin Law
At Ron Austin Law, our lawyers have spent more than two decades serving Louisiana citizens. We work with people who have been impacted by catastrophic events, property damage, and complex insurance disputes. We understand the unique dynamics of our local communities throughout Harvey and beyond.
Our firm is built on a foundation of Harvey-based lawyers with a national litigation reputation. We have recovered over $1 billion for our clients and are here to help you seek financial recovery if your home, business, or family has been affected by disaster.*
Tropical Storm Arthur
On June 17, 2026, Tropical Storm Arthur hit the U.S. coast, bringing heavy rains and high winds. Southeast Louisiana saw rainfall rates of 3 inches per hour, according to the National Weather Service.
According to forecasts, storm-total rainfall totals could be more than 12 inches in some places and as much as 20 inches in others. Harvey is especially susceptible to extreme weather because of its location near Jefferson Parish’s West Bank.
Major roads, including the Westbank Expressway, U.S. Highway 90, and Interstate 10, are routinely used by locals and can be disrupted by storms. During major weather events, properties near drainage canals and low-lying areas may be more vulnerable to floods and water damage.
Therefore, when these storms happen, even if they are not extreme, they can cause significant damage.
Common Types of Property Damage After a Tropical Storm
The heavy rains and high winds can cause significant property damage to homeowners. If winds are strong enough, they can blow out windows or rearrange outdoor items.
Heavy rains can cause flooding, even in homes, further damaging a family’s belongings. Some common types of property damage after a tropical storm include:
- Missing or damaged roofing and siding
- Mold
- Structural damage
- Permanent damage to personal belongings
- Electrical issues
Damages may not be visible to the naked eye. Water can cause damage to insulation, wiring, and other fixtures behind walls.
Steps Homeowners Should Take After a Tropical Storm
The steps you take following a natural disaster can impact your family’s safety as well as any future claim. If your home has suffered storm damage, it’s important to:
- Stay away from any fallen power lines
- Do not walk through standing water unless absolutely necessary for your safety
- Document all noticeable damage
- Contact your insurance company and inform them of the damage
- Keep damaged items
- Save receipts for emergency repairs
- Keep copies of all correspondence you have with your insurance provider
Why Hire a Property Damage Lawyer
After a tropical storm, homeowners may choose to hire a property damage lawyer in a number of circumstances. These situations frequently include rejected claims, postponed investigations, inadequate settlements, or disagreements over what caused the damage.
A lawyer understands property damage laws and can assess the insurer’s stance, determine whether more evidence is required, and outline your various legal choices. Legal advice can help homeowners better comprehend the actual value of their claims.
Large-loss property damage cases involving structural damage, severe flooding, or substantial repair costs are often difficult to work through independently. Sometimes, these cases go beyond straightforward repair estimates and require complex legal strategy to help you recover the compensation you need.
In these cases, a Harvey property damage attorney can help. If you file a claim against your insurer, know that claims in Harvey are typically handled in Jefferson Parish court.
The 24th Judicial District Court for the Parish of Jefferson, located at 200 Derbigny Street, Gretna, Louisiana 70053, serves Harvey residents as well as other areas throughout Jefferson Parish. Understanding where claims are handled locally can prepare you for the possibility of litigation.
FAQs
Can I Reopen a Property Damage Claim if More Damage Was Discovered Later?
Whether or not you can reopen a property damage claim if more damage was discovered later depends on your policy and how long after you discovered the damage. Sometimes homeowners don’t notice additional damage for weeks or even months after the storm. Take pictures of what you now know is wrong and immediately let your insurance company know.
Does Storm Damage Affect My Home’s Future Resale Value?
Storm damage may affect resale value, especially if repairs were not completed or if they may bother potential buyers. If professionals have repaired the damage well, it may help diminish any decrease in property value. Proper documentation can help show the property was restored correctly and follows relevant building codes.
Can a Homeowner Recover the Cost of Temporary Relocation?
A homeowner might be able to recover the cost of temporary relocation depending on their policy. Some policies provide coverage commonly known as loss of use coverage or Additional Living Expense coverage. This may cover the cost of temporary housing, food, storage, and other reasonable expenses if your home is uninhabitable due to damage from a covered storm.
Does Filing a Storm Damage Claim Increase My Insurance Premium?
Filing a storm damage claim does not automatically increase your insurance premium. However, previous claims may be considered when determining coverage.
Louisiana experiences higher-than-normal catastrophic weather exposures. Increases can be attributed to many things other than your homeowners’ claim. Factors that go into determining insurance premiums include claims history, geographic risk, and general market forces.
Contact Ron Austin Law Today
Homeowners may have significant financial and legal obstacles when trying to recoup from property damage after Tropical Storm Arthur, which affected Harvey and the nearby regions. Property owners can make well-informed decisions during the claims process by being aware of their insurance requirements and understanding the protections they have under the law.
Protecting your home and obtaining just compensation require acting quickly and being aware of your rights. Whether the damage is caused by wind, water intrusion, structural problems, or other storm-related losses, Ron Austin Law can help. Contact us today for more information.
*Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own merits.
