If you own property along the Texas Gulf Coast, there is a good chance your standard homeowners insurance does not cover wind and hail damage. That gap can leave you exposed to thousands of dollars in uninsured losses after a single hurricane or severe thunderstorm. A wind-only policy is a separate insurance contract that covers damage caused exclusively by wind and hail events. Understanding whether your property requires one is not optional; it is essential. In this guide from Brad Spurgeon Insurance Agency in Texas City, TX, we walk you through the key factors that determine if you need a separate windstorm policy and how to get covered before the next storm season.
What Is a Wind-Only Policy?
A wind-only policy is a specialized property and casualty insurance product that covers damage caused by wind or hail. It is separate from your standard homeowners insurance and your flood insurance. This type of coverage pays to repair or rebuild your home if it is damaged by a hurricane, tornado, or severe thunderstorm.
It is important to understand that windstorm insurance does not cover flood damage, even when flooding is caused by the same hurricane. For complete storm protection, homeowners in flood-prone areas need a separate flood policy alongside their windstorm coverage.
Why Standard Policies Exclude Wind in Coastal Texas
Texas insurance law effectively divides the state into two coverage zones. In inland areas like Dallas, Austin, or western Houston, your standard homeowners policy typically includes wind and hail coverage automatically. However, in the 14 first-tier coastal counties, wind and hail are usually excluded from standard policies because of the elevated storm risk.
This exclusion exists because insurers face enormous exposure along the Gulf Coast. The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) oversees how windstorm coverage is handled in these zones, and the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA) serves as the insurer of last resort for properties that cannot find private wind coverage.
Step 1: Check Your Property's Location
Geography is the single most important factor in determining whether you need a separate wind-only policy. The designated TWIA service area includes all 14 first-tier coastal counties and parts of Harris County east of Highway 146.
TWIA-Eligible Coastal Counties
| County | Wind Exclusion Likely? | Separate Policy Needed? |
|---|---|---|
| Galveston | Yes | Yes |
| Brazoria | Yes | Yes |
| Chambers | Yes | Yes |
| Nueces | Yes | Yes |
| Cameron | Yes | Yes |
| Jefferson | Yes | Yes |
| Harris (East of Hwy 146) | Yes | Yes |
| Inland Counties (e.g., Dallas, Travis) | No | No (included in HO policy) |
Texas City sits in Galveston County, which means nearly all homeowners here need a separate wind-only policy. If you are unsure about your county designation, schedule a free consultation with our team to verify your status.
Step 2: Review Your Current Homeowners Policy
Even if you already have home insurance, you must check your declarations page for wind and hail exclusions. A declarations page is the summary document that lists your covered perils, coverage limits, and deductibles. Look for language that excludes "wind," "hail," or "named storms" from covered perils.
If your policy includes a wind/hail exclusion, you have a coverage gap that must be filled with a standalone windstorm policy. Even inland homeowners should verify their coverage, as some carriers apply separate windstorm deductibles that range from 1% to 5% of the dwelling coverage limit. Learn more about understanding your declarations page.
TWIA vs. Private Windstorm Coverage
Once you confirm that you need a wind-only policy, you have two main options: the state-backed TWIA program or a private windstorm insurer.
TWIA (Texas Windstorm Insurance Association)
TWIA is a state-created insurer that provides windstorm and hail coverage to properties in the designated catastrophe area. To qualify, your property must be located in an eligible county, certified to meet building codes via a WPI-8 Certificate of Compliance, and you must show proof of denial from at least one private insurer. The residential coverage cap through TWIA is $1,773,000.
Private Wind Insurers
Private windstorm policies may offer more flexible terms and competitive rates compared to TWIA. Surplus lines insurers can take on higher-risk properties that do not qualify for standard coverage. Working with an independent agency that partners with multiple carriers gives you access to broader options.
Key Differences
| Feature | TWIA | Private Windstorm |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Must be denied by private insurer first | Open application |
| Coverage Cap | $1,773,000 residential | Varies by carrier |
| WPI-8 Required? | Yes | Depends on carrier |
| Rate Flexibility | State-regulated rates | Market-driven pricing |
| Avg. Annual Premium | ~$2,000 | Varies widely |
What Affects Windstorm Insurance Costs?
Several factors influence what you will pay for a wind-only policy. Your property's proximity to the coast, its age, roof type, and construction materials all play a role. Homes with wind-resistant features like impact-rated windows or hip roofs may qualify for premium discounts.
In 2026, TWIA implemented a 0% rate increase thanks to legislative changes under HB 3689, which lowered TWIA's funding target to a 1-in-50-year storm level. This rare period of rate stability is a good opportunity to lock in coverage. Learn about key pricing factors that affect windstorm rates.
Key Takeaways
- A wind-only policy covers damage from wind and hail that your standard homeowners policy may exclude in coastal Texas.
- All 14 first-tier coastal counties, including Galveston County (Texas City), typically require a separate windstorm policy.
- Check your declarations page for wind/hail exclusions before assuming you are covered.
- TWIA is the state-backed option, but private insurers may offer better rates or more flexible terms.
- Your property must have a WPI-8 Certificate of Compliance to qualify for TWIA coverage.
- Windstorm insurance is not legally required, but mortgage lenders in coastal areas almost always mandate it.
- You cannot purchase a TWIA policy when a hurricane is active in the Gulf of Mexico, so plan ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is windstorm insurance required by law in Texas?
No, Texas state law does not mandate windstorm insurance. However, mortgage lenders in coastal counties almost always require it to protect their investment in your property.
How do I know if my homeowners policy already covers wind damage?
Review your policy's declarations page and look for wind or hail exclusions. If you live in one of the 14 first-tier coastal counties, wind is likely excluded. Contact your agent or request a policy review if you are unsure.
What is a WPI-8 certificate?
A WPI-8 is a Certificate of Compliance issued by the Texas Department of Insurance confirming that your property meets applicable windstorm building codes. It is mandatory for TWIA eligibility.
Can I buy windstorm insurance during hurricane season?
You can buy it during hurricane season, but not when a named storm is actively in the Gulf of Mexico. That is why it is critical to secure coverage well before storms develop.
Does windstorm insurance cover flooding from a hurricane?
No. Windstorm insurance covers only wind and hail damage. Flood damage requires a separate flood insurance policy, even when flooding is caused by the same storm.
What is the average cost of windstorm insurance in Texas?
The average TWIA policy costs roughly $2,000 per year, though premiums vary based on location, home value, roof type, and deductible selection.
What happens if I do not have windstorm insurance and a hurricane damages my home?
Without a wind-only policy, you would be responsible for all repair and rebuilding costs out of pocket. Standard homeowners insurance in coastal areas will not pay for wind damage. Learn more about the risks of going without windstorm coverage.
Get Your Windstorm Coverage Today
Do not wait until a storm is in the Gulf to find out you are unprotected. Brad Spurgeon Insurance Agency helps homeowners in Texas City, Galveston County, and surrounding coastal communities find the right wind-only policy for their property. Whether you need TWIA coverage or a private windstorm policy, our team will walk you through every step. Request your free windstorm insurance quote today and protect your home before the next storm season.