Will insurance cover ice, pipe or tree damage in Texas? Here’s what to know – Insurance News

Winter storm updates for Fort Worth, road conditions, closings & other breaking weather news: Read Sunday’s latest here.

The National Weather Service warns that icy roads, snapped tree limbs and possible power outages are the biggest threats of this winter storm, along with pipes freezing as temperatures fall.

Those risks may have you wondering what your insurance will actually cover if a pipe bursts or a tree comes down in your yard.

Guidance from the Texas Department of Insurance shows that many types of winter storm damage are covered, but there are important exceptions to know before filing a claim.

Here’s what to know.

Generally yes. The Texas Department of Insurance says winter weather damage is usually covered when ice or snow causes something to break, collapse or leak unexpectedly.

That can include roof damage from heavy ice, water damage tied to ice dams and structural damage caused by falling limbs.

Policies also often include additional living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable during repairs. TDI says these benefits can cover temporary housing such as hotels, depending on your policy limits.

Yes. Homeowners’ insurance will generally cover water damage caused by a frozen pipe that bursts as long as the event was sudden and unexpected, according to TDI.

However, you can be denied if the insurer believes negligence played a role, like if you turned your heat off during freezing weather or if you didn’t properly insulate your pipes.

If you are a renter, TDI notes that the property owner’s insurance covers the building, but it doesn’t cover your personal belongings. Your items would be covered only if you have renters insurance.

It depends on what the tree hits.

According to TDI, homeowners insurance generally covers tree damage when the tree falls because of a covered peril like ice, snow or wind and damages your home, fence, roof, garage or another insured structure.

For trees that fall in your yard but do not damage anything, coverage is limited.

TDI notes that many policies will not pay for removal unless the fallen tree is blocking a driveway or handicap access, though some insurers may offer a small allowance depending on your policy.

If your neighbor’s tree falls on your house, TDI says your own policy typically pays for the repairs first.

The neighbor’s insurance would only apply if the neighbor was negligent, which is rare during storms since falling limbs are considered acts of nature.

Insurance groups and state regulators note several common exclusions, including:

If a pipe is leaking or has burst, shut off your water supply right away and dry the area to prevent further damage to floors, walls and belongings.

Attorneys at Texas law firm Carrigan Anderson say the first step after discovering freeze related damage is to report it to your insurance company and try to limit the impact as much as possible.

The firm also recommends taking clear photos and videos of all visible damage before you begin any temporary repairs. This documentation can help support your claim and provide a record of what happened.

If you need to make short term repairs to protect your home, such as covering openings or removing standing water, the attorneys advise keeping every receipt. Those costs, along with hotel stays, may be reimbursable depending on your policy if the home becomes uninhabitable during repairs.

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