How to File an Insurance Claim After a Winter Storm in Texas

A practical, no-sales guide for homeowners

After winter storms in Texas, many homeowners deal with frozen pipes, burst plumbing, water damage, and roof issues.
However, having insurance does not automatically mean your claim will be approved.

This guide explains:

• When you should file a claim

• When you should not

• Common reasons winter storm claims are denied

• What to do to protect your insurance rights

When SHOULD you file a winter storm insurance claim?

You should consider filing a claim if you experienced:

• ❄️ Frozen or burst pipes

• 💧 Water damage to floors, walls, ceilings, or cabinets

• 🏠 Ceiling collapse caused by water intrusion

• 🌬️ Roof damage from wind or ice buildup

Filing a claim usually makes sense when the total damage clearly exceeds your deductible.

Coverage for winter storm damage can vary depending on your policy terms, deductible, and endorsements under your home insurance in Texas.

When should you NOT file a claim?

Not every issue should go through insurance.

You may want to think twice if:

• Damage is less than or only slightly above the deductible

• Repairs are minor and affordable out-of-pocket

• Damage developed gradually (long-term leaks, maintenance issues)

Even small claims can result in higher premiums for years.

5 critical steps to take BEFORE calling the insurance company

After a winter storm, do the following immediately:

• Take photos and videos of all damage
• Shut off the main water supply to prevent further damage
• Save all emergency repair receipts
• Do not complete full repairs before the adjuster inspects
• Contact your insurance agent first, not the carrier

Many claims are weakened simply because this step is skipped.

Common reasons winter storm claims get denied in Texas

Many denied claims are not due to lack of coverage, but due to policy conditions:

• Home vacant for over 60 days without proper endorsement
• Failure to maintain minimum heat in the home
• Water not shut off while the home was unoccupied
• Claim reported too late
• Damage classified as long-term or maintenance related

Vacant or rental properties are especially vulnerable to denial.

Should you call your agent or the insurance company first?

👉 Always call your agent first.

An agent can help you:

• Decide whether filing a claim is advisable

• Estimate potential premium impact

• Avoid unnecessary claims

• Use correct wording when reporting the loss

Many homeowners regret filing a claim too quickly.

Frequently asked questions after a winter storm

Will my premium increase after a claim?
Possibly, especially if the claim is not considered a widespread catastrophe.

How long does it take for an adjuster to come out?
Typically 3–10 days, longer during high-volume storm events.

What’s the difference between ACV and RCV?
ACV deducts depreciation. RCV reimburses replacement cost.

Can rental or vacant homes file winter storm claims?
Yes, but coverage depends heavily on occupancy status and policy terms.

Practical advice from an insurance perspective

Insurance is meant for major, unexpected losses, not every repair.

If you are unsure whether to file a claim: “Review the damage carefully before calling the insurance company.”

A rushed decision today can affect your insurance costs for years.