Is Water Damage Covered by Insurance in Texas?

What Texas Homeowners Insurance Covers

Standard Texas homeowners insurance (typically an HO-3 policy) covers water damage that is sudden, accidental, and originates from within the home. Covered events generally include:

• Burst or frozen pipes (including during Texas winter storms like the 2021 freeze)
• Water heater failures or ruptures
• Washing machine, dishwasher, or refrigerator line overflows
• HVAC condensate line backups that cause ceiling or wall damage
• Accidental overflow from bathtubs, sinks, or toilets
• Roof leaks caused by sudden storm damage (hail or wind)

The resulting damage to flooring, drywall, personal property, and structural materials is typically covered up to your policy limits, minus your deductible.

What Is NOT Covered — The Flood Exception

The most important thing Texas homeowners need to understand: standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. Flooding — defined as water rising from an outside source such as a creek, river, storm drain, or overland flow — is specifically excluded from HO-3 policies.

Other common exclusions include:

• Gradual leaks and seepage: A slow drip under a sink that causes mold over months is typically denied as a maintenance issue
• Sewer and drain backups: Unless you have a separate sewer backup endorsement added to your policy
• Neglect or deferred maintenance: Damage a reasonable homeowner should have caught and repaired
• Ground seepage or foundation leaks: Water entering through the foundation or below-grade walls

Flood Insurance in Texas: NFIP and Private Options

If you live in a flood-prone area of Killeen or Central Texas — near Nolan Creek, Stillhouse Hollow Lake, or low-lying neighborhoods — you likely need a separate flood insurance policy. Two main options exist:

• National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP): Federally backed flood insurance available through FEMA. Covers up to $250,000 for structure and $100,000 for contents. There is typically a 30-day waiting period before it takes effect
• Private flood insurance: Often offers higher limits, broader coverage, and faster binding than NFIP. Several private carriers operate in Texas

USAA and Military Families in Killeen

With Fort Cavazos nearby, many Killeen homeowners are insured through USAA. USAA offers comprehensive homeowners policies that generally align with standard Texas HO-3 coverage for water damage — burst pipes and internal water events are covered, while flood damage requires a separate USAA flood policy. USAA is known for responsive claims handling and direct billing to restoration contractors.

How to File a Water Damage Claim in Texas

If you have water damage, follow these steps before your adjuster arrives:

1. Stop the water source (shut off the main water supply if needed)
2. Call your insurance company and open a claim immediately
3. Document everything with photos and video — every room, every damaged item
4. Call a restoration company like Central Texas Water Restoration to begin emergency mitigation — most policies require prompt action to prevent further damage
5. Do not throw away damaged materials until the adjuster has seen them

We work directly with all major Texas insurers and can provide documentation to support your insurance claim. Call (254) 555-0100 — we respond 24/7.