Coastal homes may need windstorm insurance through the state

Close to the Gulf, wind and hail coverage can be its own chore. TWIA lists Matagorda as one of the 14 first-tier coastal counties in its coverage area. That does not mean every house qualifies at once, but it tells you this is a TWIA county.

TWIA says applicants generally must be denied wind and hail coverage by at least one authorized insurer writing in the area. The home also usually needs a windstorm certificate, such as a WPI-8, WPI-8-E, or WPI-8-C, unless an exception applies.

Flood coverage is separate. TWIA says some homes in V-zone flood areas need proof of flood insurance if they can get it through the National Flood Insurance Program. Ask about wind, hail, and flood early, because these papers can take time.