4 Important Flood Facts You Need To Know
August 16, 2021
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According to statistics, floods are the most common natural disaster in the world. Moreover, it is also the most occurring disaster in the United States. With this, people are kind of familiar with this devastating phenomenon. However, people have a lot of misconceptions about floods.


​Let this article bring you facts that you need to know about this natural disaster.


  1. Flash floods do not only occur near streams and rivers
    Many people think that they are safe from flash floods because they are not near rivers or streams. While these areas are where flash floods commonly occur, other places can be considered high risk. Urban areas can be at risk of flash floods because most of their surface does not absorb water. A nearby dam can also cause flash floods when dam failure occurs.

  2. It is not safe to walk through floodwater
    People generally disregard the risks of walking through floodwater when it's not that high. However, six inches of floodwater is enough to sweep an adult off its feet. Floodwater is fast-moving water, which makes its danger levels higher. Also, floodwater can be contaminated, which can endanger one's health.

  3. It is not safe to drive through floodwater 
    Just like the case of walking through floodwater, driving through it can also be dangerous. People can argue that shallow floodwater is not a big deal. However, just 12 inches of floodwater is enough to make your car float or sweep it away. Another reason is that floodwater might be deeper than it looks. Lastly, it can contain hazards such as sharp objects or live electrical wires.

  4. Floods can still occur during winter
    People tend to think that the risk of flooding goes away when it is winter. While this can be mostly true, there is a certain period of winter when the risk of flooding is high. When spring is approaching, the increase in temperature can melt the snow and cause flooding. Ice jams can also happen when ice formations break up and hinder water flow, causing sudden water release. 

Conclusion

With all of these facts about floods, you should comprehend the danger levels of a flood. Essentially, this shows how much of a threat flood is and how you should not easily disregard it. Floods are something that you need to consider when protecting your family and also finances. Ensure that your homeowner's insurance policy covers floods to avoid dealing with its financial consequences.


At Brad Spurgeon Insurance Agency Inc., we do our best in making sure that our clients are well-protected with affordable and comprehensive policies. We make sure to go the extra mile to help you with your needs. To learn more about how we can help you, please contact our agency at (409) 945-4746 or Click Here to request a free quote.

October 8, 2025
If you live near the Texas Gulf Coast, you’re no stranger to high winds, tropical storms, and hurricanes . Homeowners in coastal areas like Texas City, Texas, face unique challenges when it comes to protecting their properties. One of the most common questions people ask is whether windstorm insurance can be combined with other types of coverage—like homeowners, flood, or renters insurance—for better protection and easier management. The short answer? Yes, in many cases you can combine or coordinate windstorm insurance with other policies—but it’s important to understand how each type works and what’s covered. Understanding Windstorm Insurance Windstorm insurance provides protection against damage caused by strong winds, hurricanes, hail, and tornadoes. These events can cause extensive damage to roofs, siding, windows, and other structural elements of a home. In Texas, especially along the coast, many standard homeowners insurance policies exclude windstorm and hail coverage. Instead, property owners often need to purchase separate windstorm insurance through private insurers or through the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA). Key Features of Windstorm Insurance Covers structural dam age caused by wind, hail, and flying debris Typically includes roof, windows, walls, and foundation repairs May include detached structures like garages or sheds Does not cover flood damage ca used by storm surge or rising water How Windstorm Insurance Works in Texas In coastal regions of Texas, homeowners often get windstorm coverage through TWIA, which is a state-managed program created to ensure residents can obtain insurance when private companies won’t provide it. To qualify for a TWIA policy, your property usually needs to: Be located in an eligi ble coastal county (such as Galveston County, where Texas City, Texas, is located) Meet specific building code requirements for wind resistance Be certified by the Texas Depart ment of Insurance (TDI) Can You Combine Windstorm Insurance with Other Policies? Yes—but not in the way many people expect. Windstorm insurance can be layered or coordinated with other types of coverage to create a more complete protection plan. Here’s how it typically works: 1. Homeowners Insurance + Windstorm Insurance Your homeowners policy covers general perils like fire, theft, and water leaks—but often excludes wind or hail damage if you live near the coast. Adding a windstorm policy ensures your property is protected from hurricane-force winds and other severe weather. Together, they provide a more comprehensive safety net for your home. 2. Windstorm Insurance + Flood Insurance It’s a common misconception that flood damage is covered under windstorm insurance—it’s not. Flood damage is handled through a separate flood insurance policy, typically backed by FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer. Example: A hurricane hits Texas City, Texas, and your home suffers both roof damage from high winds and flooding from storm surge. You r windstorm policy would cover the roof and structural wind damage. Your floo d policy would cover water damage caused by rising floodwaters. To be fully protected, many coastal homeowners carry both windstorm and flood insurance in addition to their homeowners policy. 3. Renters and Condo Owners If you rent or own a condo near the coast: Renters: You can purchase a renters insurance policy for your personal belongings and add windstorm coverage if required by your lease or property manager. Condo Owners: Your condo association’s master policy may cover exterior wind damage, but you’ll likely need your own unit owner’s policy for interior damage and personal property. Benefits of Combining Coverage When properly coordinated, these policies offer: Compreh ensive protection: Covers wind, flood, and general property damage. Streamlined claims: Easier coordination between insurers when damage comes from multiple sources. Peace of mind: Confidence knowing you’re protected from Texas’s unpredictable weather. Customizable options: You can tailor deductibles and limits to fit your budget and risk level. Important Considerations Before Combining Policies Review y our exclusions: Make sure you know what each policy covers and excludes. Understand deductibles: Windstorm policies often have percentage-based deductibles, especially in hurricane zones. Keep documentation: Maintain proof of property inspections, certifications, and maintenance for claims. Work with a licensed local agent: An experienced insurance professional in Texas City, Texas, can help you compare coverage options, ensure compliance with TWIA requirements, and bundle policies where possible. Check for discounts: Some i nsurers offer multi-policy discounts when you bundle homeowners, auto, or flood insurance. The Bottom Line For homeowners along the Texas Gulf Coast, windstorm insurance is essential, but it shouldn’t stand alone. Combining it with homeowners and flood insurance creates a stronger shield against the financial fallout of hurricanes, tropical storms, and high winds. If you live in or near Texas City, Texas, talk to a local insurance professional about your options. They can help ensure your home and belongings are fully protected—no matter what the next storm season brings. At Brad Spurgeon Insurance Agency Inc., we aim to provide comprehensive insurance policies that make your life easier. We want to help you get insurance that fits your needs. 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