Insurance Guide

Getting a Home Insurance Quote in Texas

What you need to know before requesting quotes and how to ensure accurate pricing for your coverage.

Updated December 1, 2024
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By Zachary Pettikas, Insurance Agent

Information You'll Need for a Quote

Property Details

  • Property address
  • Year built
  • Square footage
  • Number of stories
  • Construction type (frame, brick, stucco)
  • Roof type, material, and age
  • Updates to electrical, plumbing, HVAC (and when)

    • Coverage Preferences

  • Desired dwelling coverage amount
  • Deductible preferences (including hail deductible)
  • Personal property coverage needs
  • Liability coverage amount
  • Any scheduled items (jewelry, art, collectibles)

    • Personal Information

  • Current insurance history
  • Prior claims (last 5 years)
  • Credit information (used for insurance scoring in Texas)
  • Occupancy type (primary residence, rental, vacation)

    • Factors That Affect Your Quote

    Location-Based Factors

  • Proximity to fire station and fire hydrant
  • Local claim frequency
  • Crime rates in your area
  • Weather patterns in your region

    • Property-Based Factors

  • Age and condition of home
  • Roof age and material
  • Presence of a pool, trampoline, or certain dog breeds
  • Home security systems
  • Distance to coast (for some coverages)

    • Personal Factors

  • Insurance score (similar to credit score)
  • Claims history
  • Prior coverage gaps
  • Bundling with other policies

    • Understanding Your Quote

    Key Coverage Components

  • **Dwelling Coverage (Coverage A)**: Rebuilding your home's structure
  • **Other Structures (Coverage B)**: Detached garages, fences, sheds
  • **Personal Property (Coverage C)**: Your belongings
  • **Loss of Use (Coverage D)**: Living expenses if displaced
  • **Liability (Coverage E)**: Legal protection if someone is injured
  • **Medical Payments (Coverage F)**: Minor injury coverage for guests

    • Deductible Options

  • Standard deductible (applies to most claims)
  • Hail/wind deductible (often percentage-based)
  • Named storm deductible (in some coastal areas)

    • Tips for Comparing Quotes

  • Ensure coverage limits are identical across quotes
  • Compare deductibles, especially hail deductibles
  • Ask about available discounts
  • Verify carrier financial strength ratings
  • Consider the agent's service reputation

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    Ready to Get Protected?

    Get a personalized home insurance quote from an independent agent who will find the right coverage for your needs.