Insurance

TWIA vs. Homeowners Insurance for Roof Damage

Updated September 27, 2026 · Sabine Crest editorial

Short answerIn TWIA's first-tier coastal counties, which include Jefferson and Chambers, many homeowners policies exclude wind and hail, and a separate TWIA policy covers them. Orange, Hardin and Jasper counties aren't in TWIA's first tier, so wind is usually on the homeowners policy. Flooding needs flood insurance either way.

Underlayment installed over roof decking during a windstorm-code re-roof

What TWIA is

The Texas Windstorm Insurance Association is the state's insurer of last resort for wind and hail along the coast. It covers only wind and hail, not flood, fire or other perils.

Why the WPI-8 matters

For a new roof to be insurable through TWIA, it generally must be inspected under the TDI windstorm program and receive a WPI-8 certificate. See windstorm-certified roofing.

Deductibles

Wind and named-storm deductibles are often a percentage of the insured value, not a flat amount. Check your declarations page before hurricane season.

Not insurance advice

Your policies and adjusters decide coverage. Ask your agent which policy covers wind on your home.

Filing when both policies may apply

If a storm brings both wind and hail or water damage, you may need to file with TWIA for wind and with your homeowners insurer for other perils. Report to both if unsure; adjusters sort out which policy covers which damage.