Texas windstorm insurance provides coverage for property damage caused by wind and hail. In most of Texas, this coverage is included in standard homeowners policies, but in 14 coastal counties and parts of Harris County, it is often excluded and must be purchased separately. 

Texas Department of Insurance (.gov) 

The Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA)

TWIA is the state's "insurer of last resort," providing wind and hail coverage for coastal property owners who cannot obtain it from private insurance companies. 

• Coverage: TWIA policies exclusively cover wind and hail damage. They do not cover fire, theft, or flood damage.
• Eligibility: To qualify for a TWIA policy, you must:
  • Have been denied coverage by at least one private insurer.
  • Be located in one of the 14 designated coastal counties or eastern Harris County.
  • Hold a Windstorm Certificate of Compliance (WPI-8 or WPI-8E) to prove your home meets specific building codes.
• Costs: Factors such as property value, location, and chosen deductible will affect your specific rate. 

Counties Requiring Separate Coverage

If you have a mortgage and live in the following "first-tier" coastal counties, your lender will likely require a separate windstorm policy: 

Texas Department of Insurance (.gov) 

• Aransas, Brazoria, Calhoun, Cameron, Chambers, Galveston, Jefferson, Kenedy, Kleberg, Matagorda, Nueces, Refugio, San Patricio, and Willacy.
• Portions of Harris County (east of Highway 146). 

Key Considerations

• Flood Insurance is Separate: Neither a standard homeowner's policy nor a TWIA policy typically covers flood damage. You must usually purchase a separate policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
• Hurricane Restrictions: You cannot purchase or change a TWIA policy once a hurricane has entered the Gulf of Mexico.
• How to Apply: You must apply through a Texas-licensed insurance agent; you cannot buy a policy directly from TWIA.