Tropical storms have always been physically and emotionally devastating for both the victims and spectators. People around the world have always been quick to display their eagerness to aid those affected by natural disasters and fortunately, there are plenty of relief organizations ready to recruit volunteers. Architecture for Humanity Architecture for Humanity is a non-profit design organization that strives to reconstruct better lives for...

During hurricane seasons, regulators notify coastal regions of hurricane watches and hurricane warnings. Administration releases these announcements to alert residents of possible hurricane activity in order to prepare cities for these potential threats. But what do these notifications mean? Understanding the difference between a hurricane watch and hurricane warning can keep you safe and informed, while assisting you in taking proper action...

When searching for the right insurance policy to protect your home against costly hurricane damages, you may come across company advertisements touting “low deductibles.” Insurance companies promote this policy factor as a great benefit to customers. But what exactly are deductibles, and how do they affect you? What are Deductibles? When a hurricane strikes, property-owners file claims to receive compensation for any related damage....

In late 2012 State Farm was brought under fire in relation to a mismanagement of thousands of hurricane claims from Hurricane Ike in Texas. Released communications between State Farm managers in Texas spurred the investigation, and customers have claimed that State Farm has defrauded them out of owed money. The investigation is being led by Gregg Cox, head of the public integrity unit of the Travis County District Attorney’s office in...

Most roof damage is covered by home insurance policies, however policies differ depending on a number of factors including amount of damage, age of the roof, how many times the roof has been damaged previously. In the case of a storm, most wind, rain or hail damage is typically covered by home insurance policies, and the claim will be investigated by an adjustor to verify the damage. When it comes to the age of your roof, some companies will...

In September 2008, Hurricane Ike swept through the southeastern portion of Texas hammering Galveston and affected regions with $12 billion in insured losses. Flooded cities and destroyed neighborhoods turned to insurance companies to be the “good neighbor”s they had so long promised to be, but many failed to keep their pledge to support communities. As a result, locals were left in disheveled, often  uninhabitable homes, with...