CONROE, Texas (KTRK) — Families across the Houston area are still dealing with the aftermath of recent storms, and repairs are proving to be costly and complicated.
The Maddux family was asleep on the morning of May 31 when a storm hit, causing a giant tree to fall on the room shared by 8-year-old Finn and 4-year-old Atticus. Fortunately, the children were unharmed, but water began pouring into their home.
“Water was coming through the walls because when the pipe burst, the water ran down above the ceiling,” explained Brent Maddux.
Initially, Brent did not panic as the family has insurance through State Farm. However, the situation changed when an insurance adjuster assessed the damage.
“The initial estimate was $23,000 and some change, which included about $8,000 or $9,000 for tree removal and exterior work. The remainder was for the whole house,” Brent said. “We had four days without electricity and no way to remove the water. We were told the house was salvageable, but it doesn’t feel that way. I’m at a loss for words, honestly.”
Brent mentioned that the adjuster deemed the home safe for his family of six to live in.
“It’s not safe for my kids. There are rusty nails, no walls, exposed electrical wires. It’s not safe or comfortable,” he said. “We should have bought the cheapest, low-quality insurance. We’ve essentially been dropped.”
While Eyewitness News was at their home, a State Farm representative called and offered to cover their housing for the next week.
Meanwhile, the family is still waiting for a new insurance quote that they feel will adequately cover the damage.
When Eyewitness News reached out to State Farm Insurance for details about the family’s claim and future options, a spokesperson cited the company’s privacy policy and declined to provide any information.
Despite being informed that the homeowner waived any privacy concerns, the company did not respond.
