Water Damage & Frozen Pipe Claims in Texas: Coverage Rules & Limits

Sudden & Accidental Discharge vs. Continuous Leak

Texas policies cover **sudden and accidental water discharge** (such as a burst pipe during a winter freeze or a ruptured water heater). However, **gradual or continuous leaks** lasting over 14 days are routinely excluded as maintenance failures.

Water Backup and Sump Overflow Endorsement

Standard Texas HO-3 policies exclude water that backs up through sewers, drains, or overflows from a sump pump. Homeowners must add a dedicated **Water Backup Endorsement** (typically $35-$75/year for $10,000 to $25,000 in coverage).

Texas Mold Limitations

TDI regulations limit standard mold remediation coverage to $5,000 unless an optional Mold Coverage endorsement is purchased to increase coverage limits to $15,000 or 100% of dwelling policy limits.