Austin Cold Weather Is Coming: Here’s How to Protect Your Home and Your Insurance
Even though Austin is known for its sunshine and mild winters, we Texans know that cold snaps can arrive quickly and hit hard. The sudden temperature change this year reminds me of the 2021 winter storm. That freeze caused billions in damages across Texas, and many homeowners learned too late that their insurance didn’t fully cover cold-related losses.
This winter, Dhuka Agency wants to help you stay prepared for the storm. Here’s what Austin homeowners should know to get ready for cold weather, protect their property, and ensure their insurance coverage is adequate.
What Austin Can Expect This Winter
Local weather experts say Central Texas will likely see a mix of mild days and sudden cold fronts, including a few nights that could dip below freezing.
That may not sound extreme, but when Austin gets below 32°F, pipes can freeze, roofs can crack, and heating systems can fail, leading to costly repairs and insurance claims.
Even a brief freeze can cause:
- Burst pipes and interior water damage
- Roof leaks from frozen moisture expansion
- Power outages and HVAC failure
- Water heater or appliance breakdowns
Your homeowners' insurance can help, but only if you’re prepared.
Austin Cold Weather Home Prep Checklist
Before the next cold front hits, take a few simple steps to protect your home and reduce your risk of filing a claim:
- Insulate exposed pipes: Especially in attics, garages, and exterior walls.
- Let faucets drip: Running water prevents pressure build-up and pipe bursts.
- Know your main water shut-off valve: Label it clearly for quick access.
- Seal gaps and cracks: Check windows, doors, and attic openings for drafts.
- Service your heater: Clean filters, and inspect your HVAC before winter. Home heaters will start failing and need to be replaced after around 15 - 20 years.
- Trim overhanging branches: Ice accumulation can cause damage during storms when the ice or the branches fall onto vehicles.
- Bring pets and plants indoors: Austin’s freezes can be short but dangerous.
- Review your home insurance policy: Check coverage for "freeze damage" or "sudden and accidental water discharge."
Why Your Insurance Policy Matters in Cold Weather
Not all cold-weather damage is automatically covered. Coverage often depends on how the damage occurred.
For example:
- Covered: A pipe bursts suddenly during a freeze.
- Maybe Not Covered: The burst happened because your heat wasn’t on or maintenance was neglected.
- Not Covered: Long-term water damage or mold from a slow leak.
At Dhuka Agency, we recommend reviewing your policy every fall to ensure you’re protected before temperatures drop.
Ask Your Agent These 3 Key Questions
Don’t Forget Your Car
Cold weather can affect your vehicle too. Check that your auto insurance includes comprehensive coverage, which protects against falling branches, ice damage, and other non-collision losses.
Final Thoughts from Dhuka Agency
Cold weather in Austin might not last long, but it can still pack a punch. A few hours of freezing temperatures can cause thousands of dollars in damage.
At Dhuka Agency, we’re here to help you prepare and protect what matters most.
Call Dhuka Agency today for a free winter coverage review.
We’ll explain your policy, check your coverage for freeze damage, and make sure you’re ready for whatever this Austin winter brings.
Contact Us Today