Texas-Specific · Insurance Term
Texas Catastrophe Area (First-Tier Coastal Counties)
Definition
The Texas catastrophe area is the coastal area where the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA) can write wind and hail coverage. It covers 14 first-tier coastal counties plus parts of Harris County east of Highway 146 in La Porte, Morgan's Point, Pasadena, Seabrook and Shoreacres.
In Plain English
The 14 counties are Aransas, Brazoria, Calhoun, Cameron, Chambers, Galveston, Jefferson, Kenedy, Kleberg, Matagorda, Nueces, Refugio, San Patricio and Willacy. Being inside this area is the first test for TWIA eligibility.
Buildings in the area generally need a windstorm certificate showing they meet wind building codes to qualify for TWIA. Private insurers here often exclude wind or apply a large named storm deductible.
Most of Houston is not in the catastrophe area, so most Houston properties get wind coverage from the private market.
Not sure how your policy handles this? Have us review it, or get a quote.
Example
Hypothetical: an investor buys a motel in Galveston County. Several private insurers offer property coverage that excludes wind. The owner pairs a private policy with a TWIA wind and hail policy, which requires a valid windstorm certificate.
Why It Matters for Texas Property Owners
This term is specific to Texas windstorm law (Insurance Code Chapter 2210). Location inside or outside the line changes how wind and hail coverage is usually bought.
What to Watch For
- Confirm whether each property is inside the catastrophe area, especially near the Harris County line.
- Gather windstorm certificates for any building, repair or addition since 1988.
- Ask whether a quote includes or excludes wind before comparing prices.
Sources
Last updated October 14, 2026 · Primesure editorial team · How We Write