Common Insurance Claims for a Texas Freeze
When Texas is hit with a severe freeze, the impact can be widespread and costly. Homes, vehicles, and businesses throughout the state often suffer damage due to infrastructure not built for prolonged cold. Insurance companies see a surge in claims after freezing weather events, many of which stem from preventable but unavoidable winter conditions. Below are the most common insurance claims filed during a Texas freeze and how different policies typically respond.
Frozen and Burst Pipes
One of the most frequent and expensive claims involves burst pipes. When water freezes, it expands and puts pressure on plumbing, causing pipes to rupture. The resulting water damage can destroy flooring, walls, furniture, and electrical systems.
Homeowners, renters, and commercial property insurance usually cover water damage from burst pipes as long as the policyholder took reasonable steps to prevent the freeze, such as maintaining heat or insulating exposed pipes.
Roof Damage From Ice, Snow, and Freezing Rain
Texas roofs, especially older ones, are often not designed to handle ice accumulation. Ice dams can form along the edges of roofs, causing melting water to back up and seep under shingles.
Common roof-related claims include:
- Ice dam leaks
- Shingle damage
- Collapsed gutters
- Structural strain from ice weight
Most property insurance policies cover these losses, though pre-existing roof wear may reduce payouts.
Water Damage From Power Outages
Extended power outages during freezes—like during Winter Storm Uri—can cause interior temperatures to drop, triggering more frozen pipe bursts. Additionally, sump pump failures or malfunctioning appliances can cause flooding. Insurance generally covers the resulting damage, but not the power outage itself.
Spoiled Food From Power Loss
Freezers and refrigerators can only keep food cold for so long. When a freeze knocks out power for days, many Texans file claims for spoiled food. Homeowners and renters policies often include limited coverage (typically $250–$500) for food spoilage.
Auto Accidents on Icy Roads
Icy bridges and slick highways lead to a spike in winter-related crashes. Common claims include:
- Rear-end collisions
- Slide-offs
- Multi-car pileups
Drivers with collision coverage can recover repair costs. Liability helps when the insured driver is at fault.
Fallen Tree Damage
Freezing rain can weigh down tree limbs, causing them to snap and fall on roofs, fences, vehicles, or power lines. Homeowners' insurance usually covers debris removal and damage repairs if the tree fell due to a covered peril like ice or wind.
