Buying a House in Texas? Here’s What You Really Need to Know About Home Insurance

So you’ve found the one—no, not your soulmate (though congrats if you found them too)—we’re talking about the house. Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or jumping into homeownership for the first time, buying a home in Texas is a big deal. But while you’re dreaming of front porches, open-concept kitchens, and backyard BBQs, there’s one crucial box you can’t forget to check: homeowners insurance.

Don’t worry—we’re not here to throw jargon at you and disappear. At Dowd Insurance Agency, we’re all about making insurance make sense for real Texans like you. So let’s walk through the ins and outs of home insurance—what it covers, what affects your rates, and how to make smart choices that protect your home and your wallet.

🧭 What Is Homeowners Insurance—And Why Do You Need It?

In plain terms: homeowners insurance helps protect you financially if your home or belongings are damaged, destroyed, or stolen. It also covers liability if someone is injured on your property.

But here’s the kicker: most mortgage lenders require you to have home insurance. Even if they didn’t, going without it is like driving without a seatbelt—technically possible, but really not smart.

🏠 What Does a Standard Texas Home Insurance Policy Cover?

Let’s break it down:

1. Dwelling Coverage – This pays to repair or rebuild the structure of your home if it’s damaged by a covered peril (like fire, hail, or a Texas-sized storm).
   💡 Pro Tip: Make sure your dwelling coverage reflects the cost to rebuild—not just your home’s market value.

2. Other Structures – Covers things like detached garages, fences, and sheds. You know, all the extra stuff that makes your property feel like home.

3. Personal Property – From your furniture to your flat-screen, this covers your belongings inside the home—whether they’re damaged or stolen.

4. Loss of Use (ALE – Additional Living Expenses) – If your home becomes unlivable after a covered event, this helps pay for temporary housing, meals, and other essentials.

5. Liability Protection – If someone gets hurt on your property and sues, this helps cover legal fees and damages.

6. Medical Payments to Others – This helps pay for small medical bills if a guest gets hurt at your place—think tripping over your kid’s skateboard.

💸 What Affects Your Home Insurance Premium in Texas?

Here’s where things get interesting. Home insurance rates aren’t just pulled out of thin air—several factors come into play:

🔍 1. Location, Location, Location – Are you in a flood-prone zone? Near the Gulf Coast? In a high-crime area? All of this impacts your premium.
🌧️ Fun (okay, not-so-fun) Fact: Flood damage is NOT covered by standard home insurance. You’ll need a separate flood insurance policy—ask us about it!

🧱 2. Construction Materials – Brick homes often get lower rates than wood-frame homes because they’re more fire-resistant.

🛠️ 3. Age and Condition of the Home – Older homes might be charming, but they can come with outdated wiring, aging roofs, or plumbing that’s… let’s just say “quirky.” These risks can drive up your premiums.

🚨 4. Safety Features – Got a security system, smoke detectors, or storm shutters? You might qualify for discounts!

📜 5. Your Insurance History – Never filed a claim? You’re golden. A history of multiple claims? Not so much.

🧠 Final Thoughts: Buying Smart Means Insuring Smart

Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. Getting the right insurance is how you protect it.

At Dowd Insurance Agency, we help Texas homeowners like you understand their options, avoid costly gaps, and get the best value for their coverage. Whether you’re in Temple, Belton, or beyond—we’ve got your back.

🎯 Ready to Get a Quote or Ask Questions?

Let’s talk! Whether you’re just starting the home-buying process or already under contract, we can help you sort through your options and find the coverage that fits your life (and your budget).

👉 Click here to get started or call us at (512) 331-0787 — we’re real people, not robots.

Dowd Insurance Agency – Protecting What Matters Most in Central Texas.