Texas Ice Storms: More Expensive Than You Think
Most Texans brace for scorching summers and sudden thunderstorms, but in recent years, ice storms have proven just as destructive—if not more so. For insurance companies, homeowners, and drivers across the Dallas metro, these winter events are leaving a costly trail.
In Plano, McKinney, Allen, Celina, Prosper, and Richardson, residents have seen icy roads shut down traffic, frozen pipes burst, and roofs collapse under the weight of ice. That translates to thousands of claims and rising insurance payouts. But how much do these storms actually cost, and what does that mean for your own premiums?
At The Sterling Insurance Group, we’ve looked closely at the numbers and their impact so you know what to expect before the next freeze.
Ice Storms in Texas: Why We’re So Vulnerable
While many picture northern states when they think of ice, Texas has become a hotspot for severe winter weather events. The February 2021 Winter Storm Uri brought the entire state to a standstill and caused staggering losses.
Why Texas struggles:
- Homes often aren’t built with heavy insulation or pipe protection
- Infrastructure isn’t designed for long freezes
- Drivers aren’t used to icy roads
The combination means more claims and higher costs than states that face snow every year.
How Much Do Ice Storms Cost Insurers?
Winter Storm Uri (Feb 2021)
- Estimated insurance losses: $10.3 billion statewide (Insurance Council of Texas)
- More than 500,000 claims filed
- Thousands of burst pipe and auto accident claims in the Dallas suburbs alone
This storm remains the costliest weather event in Texas history—even topping Hurricane Harvey.
Other Recent Events
- Feb 2022: Ice glazed over much of North Texas, leading to widespread auto accidents and property damage
- Jan 2023: A storm closed sections of I-75 and I-635, while falling branches crushed cars and damaged homes
Ongoing Costs
- Average annual losses from Texas ice storms: $1.5–$2.5 billion
- Most of it comes from frozen pipes, roof damage, and winter auto collisions
The Most Common Insurance Claims After an Ice Storm
- Homeowners Insurance
- Burst pipes and water damage
- Roof damage or collapse
- Loss of use (hotel stays while repairs are made)
- Burst pipes and water damage
- Auto Insurance
- Accidents on icy roads
- Damage from falling trees or branches
- Frozen engine or glass damage from sleet
- Accidents on icy roads
- Commercial Property
- Business interruption and lost income
- Broken heating or plumbing systems
- Inventory losses from power outages
- Business interruption and lost income
In 2021, nearly 70% of all storm-related claims came from homeowners.
How Ice Storm Costs Trickle Into Your Premiums
When insurers pay billions in claims, those losses ripple across the risk pool. For North Texas, that has meant:
- Rising homeowners premiums since 2021
- Tougher underwriting for older properties
- More demand for endorsements like water backup or equipment breakdown
For auto insurance, winter weather has contributed to higher rates as well, especially for drivers with storm-related claims.
What Does Your Home Policy Cover?
Most Dallas-area homeowners policies do cover sudden damage from ice, including:
- Burst pipes (if precautions were taken)
- Structural damage to the home
- Personal property losses
- Temporary housing expenses
But exclusions matter. Coverage could be denied if:
- You didn’t keep the home heated
- Damage was gradual, not sudden
- You lack optional endorsements
Businesses Are at Risk Too
Commercial properties in Plano, Richardson, and McKinney were hit especially hard in 2021 and 2023. Common issues included:
- Frozen sprinkler systems damaging stock
- Roof leaks shutting down operations
- Lost income due to closures
Business owners should double-check their property limits, business interruption coverage, and extra expense protection before winter returns.
Auto Insurance During Ice Storms
Collision and comprehensive coverage are essential in icy weather. Without them, you’re left paying for:
- Guardrail or tree impacts
- Damage from falling limbs or ice sheets
- Broken windshields from flying debris
Roadside assistance is also smart—towing and jump-starts become common when vehicles get stuck or frozen.
Preparing for the Next Freeze in North Texas
- Winterize Your Home
- Wrap outside faucets and insulate exposed pipes
- Let faucets drip when temps dip below 32°F
- Know where your water shut-off valve is
- Wrap outside faucets and insulate exposed pipes
- Review Your Insurance
- Confirm coverage for burst pipes, temporary housing, and auto damage
- Add endorsements for water backup or equipment breakdown
- Check your deductible before storm season
- Confirm coverage for burst pipes, temporary housing, and auto damage
- Build a Winter Safety Plan
- Stock flashlights, bottled water, and food
- Park vehicles in sheltered spots when possible
- Stock flashlights, bottled water, and food
Filing a Claim After an Ice Storm
Step 1: Document all damage with photos and receipts.
Step 2: Call The Sterling Insurance Group—we’ll explain coverage, walk you through the claim, and talk through your deductible.
Step 3: Take action to prevent further damage (turn off water, board up windows, move items out of harm’s way).
Final Thoughts: Preparation Pays Off
Ice storms in Texas may be rare, but when they strike, the costs are staggering. Billions in damage, higher premiums, and long recovery times have become the reality.
But with the right insurance, a few smart precautions, and a trusted local partner, you can minimize the impact.
Let’s Get You Storm-Ready
The Sterling Insurance Group helps homeowners, drivers, and business owners across Plano, McKinney, Allen, Celina, Prosper, and Richardson prepare for winter weather.
Call The Sterling Insurance Group today for a free policy review.
Phone: (972) 964-4825
Email: info@sterlinginsnow.com
Website: www.sterlinginsnow.com
We’ll help protect what matters—rain, sleet, or ice.