Did you suffer material damage? Texans are encouraged to report the impacts of the winter climate crisis

If the recent Arctic explosion and power outages resulted in damage to your home or business, the state of Texas wants to hear from you.

Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas Emergency Management Division are asking Texans to complete a Self-Report Damage Survey, according to a press release.

Voluntary research is not a substitute for reporting damage to an insurance agency and does not guarantee emergency assistance, according to the state. In fact, you must file a claim in a timely manner with your insurer.

The survey, which is available in English and Spanish, was designed to help emergency management officials understand the extent of the damage suffered throughout Texas during the February Arctic climate explosion, which led to widespread power cuts and pipes broken.

According to the state, this data is also needed to provide information to FEMA when assessing the need for federal assistance in the event of a disaster for individuals.

Ads

“I urge Texans to complete the Self Reporting Damage Survey and provide crucial information about the impacts of the winter climate on their homes or properties,” said Abbott. “The information obtained from this survey will help our state to identify the full impact of this winter climate and help emergency management to better serve Texans.”

The survey, which again does not replace filing an insurance claim, can be accessed by visiting: www.TDEM.texas.gov/warm.

The state asks that only one form be sent per affected address.

The form begins with a question about whether you are reporting damage to a home or business, and then asks for basic personal information such as name, phone number and email address.

You will be asked to identify your location on a map and answer additional questions about whether you rent or own and have insurance on the property.

Ads

In the case of a house, Texans are asked whether they can still live in the house or whether the property has been destroyed or needs major structural repairs.

The form also asks individuals to identify the type of damage and upload photos of the damage.

The survey link also guides Texans to a map of heating stations available across the state. Residents can find a location, along with other resources, by calling 2-1-1.