Check personal liability limit (min $300,000 recommended)

Default is often $100K. Increase to $300K or $500K for meaningful protection.

Add a personal umbrella policy ($1M minimum)

Adds liability on top of your home and auto. Costs $150-300/year. Essential if you have assets to protect.

Pool, trampoline, or dog: confirm liability coverage

Some carriers exclude or limit coverage for these. Verify your policy or add an endorsement.

Add loss of use coverage (ALE) for at least 12 months

Pays for hotel and living costs if your home is uninhabitable after a covered loss.

Check for a separate wind/hail deductible

Many TX policies have a 1-2% wind/hail deductible separate from your standard deductible. On a $400K home that is $4,000-8,000 out of pocket.

Coastal counties: check windstorm exclusion

Properties in the TWIA-eligible area may need a separate Texas Windstorm policy for hurricane coverage.

Check freeze coverage (water pipes bursting)

After Winter Storm Uri, many TX homeowners discovered freeze damage exclusions. Confirm your policy covers burst pipes.

Confirm you have an inflation guard or guaranteed replacement cost rider

Automatically adjusts your dwelling coverage limit each year as construction costs increase.

Ask about home security, new roof, and smoke detector discounts

Many carriers offer 5-15% discounts for qualifying features. A new roof can reduce premiums significantly.

Compare bundle vs. separate carrier pricing

Bundling home and auto typically saves 10-20%, but not always. Compare both before committing.

Set a calendar reminder to shop rates at renewal

Most carriers raise rates 8-15% at renewal. Set a reminder 60 days before your expiration date.