Wildfire Season in Central Texas: Is Your Home Insurance Ready?

As temperatures climb and grass dries out, wildfire season creeps closer—and if you live in Central Texas, that’s something you can’t ignore. While we can’t control Mother Nature, we can make sure our home insurance is wildfire-ready. So, grab a glass of sweet tea and let’s break down what you need to know.

Why Wildfire Coverage Matters in Texas

Wildfires aren’t just a California problem. Central Texas sees its fair share of dry spells, high winds, and lightning strikes—especially in late summer. If a wildfire sparks near your property, your standard homeowners insurance may cover damage, but don’t assume. Now’s the time to check the fine print.

What Homeowners Insurance Usually Covers

In most cases, a standard HO-3 homeowners policy includes coverage for:

• Your home (the structure itself)
• Other structures (like fences, sheds, or detached garages)
• Personal property (furniture, clothes, electronics, etc.)
• Additional living expenses (ALE) if you’re temporarily displaced
• Liability protection if someone’s hurt on your property during a wildfire event

💡 Pro tip: If you’ve made upgrades or added features (hello, deck extension!), make sure your dwelling coverage reflects current rebuild costs.

Don’t Skip These Wildfire Readiness Tips

Even with great coverage, preparation is key. Here’s how to reduce your risk:

• Create a defensible space by clearing brush, dead leaves, and flammable debris 30–100 feet from your home
• Trim tree limbs so they’re at least 10 feet from your roof and chimney
• Use fire-resistant materials on roofing, siding, and decks when possible
• Check your gutters—clean them out regularly to avoid flammable buildup

And don’t forget: an emergency evacuation plan could save lives.

When Was Your Last Policy Review?

Wildfire season is the perfect time to review your insurance. Do you know your coverage limits? Are you insured for actual cash value or replacement cost? Those details matter—a lot—when disaster strikes.

At Dowd Insurance Agency, we’re local, independent, and here to make sense of your policy before you need to file a claim. We work with multiple carriers to find the right fit for your home and your budget.

Let’s talk before the smoke’s in the air.
👉 Contact us today for a quick, no-pressure policy review.