The Heartbreaking Story of Phyllis Yankey: A Warning for Homeowners

Montgomery County, Texas— Even two months after Hurricane Beryl passed through Southeast Texas, leaving a trail of destruction behind, many people are still struggling to recover. One such person is Phyllis Yankey, a grandmother whose dream home was destroyed by a fallen tree.

However, Phyllis’ situation was even more tragic. Her insurance coverage lapsed right when Hurricane Beryl hit, leaving her vulnerable and unprotected.

Phyllis had always dreamed of living close to her grandchildren, and when an opportunity arose to buy a house next door to her son in Conroe, she seized it. In January, she sold her condo in Kentucky and paid cash for her new home in Montgomery County. She thought she had secured insurance with the same company she had used for over 50 years.

Unfortunately, a mishap caused her insurance to be canceled due to previous damage on the property, making her home uninsurable. Undeterred, Phyllis pressed on with renovations, only to be devastated when Hurricane Beryl struck, destroying her almost-completed home.

Now, Phyllis is faced with the daunting task of rebuilding her dream home all over again, with the looming threat of hurricane season still hanging over her head. She is determined to persevere, relying on faith to see her through.

Phyllis wants to share her story as a cautionary tale for other homeowners. Experienced insurance attorneys recommend being upfront with insurance agents about renovation plans and waiting at least 30 days after starting a new homeowners’ policy before beginning renovations to avoid any unexpected denials.

Phyllis’ story serves as a reminder of the importance of proper insurance coverage and preparation, especially in the face of natural disasters. Let her experience be a lesson to all homeowners to ensure they are adequately protected.