frequently asked question

No state law requires it. If you have a mortgage, your lender will usually require it until the loan is paid off.

Usually your house, other structures like a fence or detached garage, your belongings, extra living costs if you can't stay home after a covered loss, and personal liability. I'll show you each limit on your quote.

Replacement cost pays to repair or replace with similar new materials. Depreciated value subtracts age and wear, so the check is smaller. I'll show you which one applies to your home and your belongings.

Enough to rebuild your home at today's construction costs. That can be different from what you paid or what the home would sell for. I'll walk through the estimate with you.

Your landlord's policy covers the building, not your things. Renters insurance covers your belongings and your personal liability.

Yes. A home you rent to others usually needs a dwelling (landlord) policy, not a standard homeowners policy. Tell me how the property is used and I'll point you to the right one.

Usually not. FEMA notes that most homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. Flood coverage is a separate policy. Source: FloodSmart (FEMA)

On many Houston-area policies, yes, often with a separate wind and hail deductible. Some coastal areas, including parts of Harris County east of Highway 146, get wind and hail coverage through TWIA instead. Source: TWIA

Usually not when it comes from settling or shifting soil. Some policies cover foundation damage caused by a sudden plumbing leak. I'll check what your policy says.

Sudden and accidental water damage, like a burst pipe, is usually covered. Slow leaks, wear and tear, and flood water usually are not.

It is often excluded unless you add water backup coverage. I'll tell you whether it's available on your quote.

Policies often have lower limits for items like jewelry, watches and collectibles. You can list valuable items separately for higher limits.

Things like your home's age, roof, location, construction, claims history, deductible and limits. In Texas, insurers can also use credit information as one factor, within state rules. Source: Texas Insurance Code Ch. 559

Yes. Roof age and material can affect the price and how a roof claim is paid. Some policies pay roof claims on a depreciation schedule. I'll show you how your roof is covered.

The amount you pay toward a covered claim before the policy pays. A higher deductible usually lowers your premium, but you pay more out of pocket when you file a claim.

Some deductibles, often for wind and hail, are a percentage of your dwelling coverage instead of a flat dollar amount. I'll show you the dollar amount it works out to.

Many carriers offer a discount when you insure your home and car together. I'll compare bundled and separate options so you can see the difference.

The review is free. If there is a fee on a placement, you will know the number before you decide anything.

Make sure everyone is safe, take photos and video, and prevent more damage if you can, like covering a roof opening. Keep receipts for emergency repairs, then report the claim.

You can report the claim directly to the carrier, and you can call me too. I'll help you understand what your policy covers and what to expect.

It can. Claims history is one of the factors insurers use. I can help you think through whether a small claim makes sense before you file.

Loss of use coverage, also called additional living expenses, helps pay for things like a hotel and meals while your home is repaired, up to your limit.

Damage to your home is generally covered when a covered cause, like wind, brings the tree down. Tree removal may have its own limit.

Ask the carrier to explain the decision in writing, and call me. The Texas Department of Insurance also helps consumers with complaints about insurance companies. Source: Texas Department of Insurance

Flooding can happen outside high-risk zones too, and policies there often cost less. I'll check your zone and show you the options. Source: FloodSmart (FEMA)

Before it starts. Hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30, and a new flood policy usually takes 30 days to begin. Sources: NOAA National Hurricane Center; FloodSmart (FEMA)

The Texas Windstorm Insurance Association. It offers wind and hail coverage in designated coastal areas, including parts of Harris County east of Highway 146, for properties that can't get it in the regular market. Source: TWIA

Usually not much. Business equipment and business liability often have low limits or none at all. Tell me about your business and I'll show you what fits.

Many policies limit coverage when a home sits vacant. If you are moving, renovating or selling, tell me so we can check your coverage.

Sí. I can walk through your home coverage with you in English or Spanish.

Caballaro Agency is at 1800 West Loop South, Suite 1700, near the Galleria. I'm an independent agent, so I compare several carriers for you instead of selling one company. Call or text (281) 660-8741.

It depends on your driving record, vehicle, ZIP code and coverage. The way to see your real price is to compare quotes from several carriers, which I do for you.

Traffic, accidents, vehicle theft, and hail and flood claims all play a part in local pricing. You can't change your ZIP code, but comparing carriers and checking discounts can help.

Texas requires liability coverage of at least $30,000 per injured person, $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. That is the legal floor, and a serious accident can cost more. Source: Texas Office of Public Insurance Counsel

It's the Texas minimum: $30,000 for one person's injuries, $60,000 for all injuries in one accident, and $25,000 for property damage. It pays the other driver, not you or your car. Source: Texas Office of Public Insurance Counsel

Yes. Drivers in Texas must carry at least the minimum liability coverage or another approved form of financial responsibility. Source: Texas Office of Public Insurance Counsel

You can be fined, and repeat offenses can lead to a suspended license and an impounded car. You would also be personally responsible for damage or injuries you cause.

Yes. Hail damage to your car is covered under comprehensive, not collision, minus your deductible.

Only if you have comprehensive coverage. A liability-only policy won't pay to repair or replace a flooded car.

Texas insurers must offer Personal Injury Protection, and you can turn it down. PIP helps pay medical bills and lost wages for you and your passengers, no matter who caused the accident. Source: Texas Insurance Code Ch. 1952

If you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, your own policy helps pay for your injuries and damage. Without it, you may have to go after the other driver yourself.

It can. Many carriers offer a discount for an approved course, and in some cases a course can also keep a ticket off your record.

There's no single answer. Pricing depends on your age, record, car and ZIP code. That's why I compare several carriers side by side.

Keep your insurance card in the car or on your phone. Texas accepts proof on your phone, and officers can also verify coverage electronically through TexasSure.

Sí, hablo español. I work with clients in English and Spanish, so you can go over your coverage in the language you prefer.

It usually means liability plus collision and comprehensive, so your own car is protected, not just the other driver. Lenders usually require it on financed or leased cars.

Enough to protect what you own. Damage above your limits can come out of your pocket. I'll show you a few limit options side by side so you can choose.

Rates change for many reasons, like repair costs, claims in your area or changes to your record. If yours went up at renewal, it's a good time to compare carriers.

Often. Many carriers offer a multi-policy discount. I'll show you bundled and separate prices so you can see the difference.

Compare carriers, bundle policies, look at your deductible, ask about safe-driver and multi-car discounts, and review your coverage every year.

It helps pay for your injuries and damage when the at-fault driver has no insurance or not enough. Texas insurers must offer it, and you can turn it down. Source: Texas Insurance Code Ch. 1952

It's worth a close look. Not every driver on the road carries enough coverage, and this protects you when they can't pay. I'll walk you through the cost and the limits.

Liability pays for damage you cause to others. Full coverage adds collision and comprehensive, which help pay to fix your own car.

Make sure everyone is safe, call 911 if anyone is hurt, take photos, exchange insurance information, and report the claim. Then call me and I'll help you through it.

Often not, if the other driver is found at fault. Each carrier handles it differently, so it's worth asking before you file.

Personal policies often don't cover you while you're working. You may need a rideshare or delivery endorsement. Tell me how you drive and I'll review it.

If the vehicle is owned by your business or used for work, like job sites, deliveries, hauling tools or transporting clients, it may need commercial coverage. Tell me how you use it and I'll review it first.

If your car is totaled, it helps pay the difference between what the car is worth and what you still owe on the loan or lease.

Adding a teen usually raises a family's premium. Good student and driver training discounts can help. I'll quote it before they start driving.

An independent agent compares several carriers for you and helps at claim time. Buying direct means you see one company's price.

Parts of Houston are in FEMA high-risk flood zones, and flooding can happen across the city. You can check your address on FEMA's flood map, or I can check it for you. Source: FEMA Flood Map Service Center

Areas outside high-risk zones can still flood, and homeowners insurance usually doesn't cover flood. It's worth getting a quote. Source: FloodSmart (FEMA)

Homes near the bayous can face higher flood risk, and your homeowners policy usually won't cover rising water. A flood policy does.

It's still worth a look. Every storm floods differently, and heavy rain can flood streets that stayed dry before.

It depends on your home's elevation, flood zone, foundation and coverage amount. I compare NFIP and private options for your address.

Prices vary by location and property details. A quote for your specific address shows your real price.

Usually not. FEMA notes that most homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. You need a separate flood policy. Source: FloodSmart (FEMA)

Yes. NFIP policies generally take effect 30 days after purchase, with exceptions, like buying when you get a mortgage. Private flood policies can have different waiting periods. Source: FloodSmart (FEMA)

You can buy it, but because of the waiting period it usually won't cover a storm that's already on the way. Buying before hurricane season is the safer move. Source: FloodSmart (FEMA)

Before you need it. Hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30, and heavy rain can flood Houston any time of year. Source: NOAA National Hurricane Center

The Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30. Source: NOAA National Hurricane Center

Texas law doesn't require it for everyone. Your lender will require it if your home is in a high-risk flood zone and your loan is federally backed. Source: FloodSmart (FEMA)

Look up your address on FEMA's Flood Map Service Center. I can also check it for you when I quote. Source: FEMA Flood Map Service Center

Yes. Private flood policies are available and can offer different limits or pricing than the NFIP. I compare both for you.

Areas near bayous, low-lying neighborhoods and places with older drainage can be at higher risk. Flooding has also hit neighborhoods that never flooded before.

It's worth considering. Flooding can happen outside high-risk zones, and coverage there often costs less. Source: FloodSmart (FEMA)

It covers your home's structure and, if you add contents coverage, your belongings against flood damage. That includes things like walls, floors, electrical systems, furniture and appliances.

NFIP policies generally don't cover your car, landscaping, pools, cash or temporary living costs. Coverage below the lowest elevated floor is also limited.

It covers flood and storm surge damage from a hurricane. Wind damage is usually covered by your homeowners or windstorm policy, not flood insurance.

Wind damage comes from the storm itself, like a roof torn off. Flood damage comes from rising water. They're covered by different policies.

Only if you buy contents coverage. Building and contents are separate, so check which one you have.

Your landlord's policy doesn't cover your belongings. Renters can buy contents-only flood coverage. Source: FloodSmart (FEMA)

It's required if your home is in a high-risk flood zone and your loan is federally backed. Some lenders require it in other zones too. Source: FloodSmart (FEMA)

NFIP policies cover up to $250,000 for a home's structure and $100,000 for contents. Private or excess flood policies can go higher. Source: FloodSmart (FEMA)

Options include a higher deductible, an elevation certificate, flood vents, and comparing NFIP with private carriers. Some communities also earn discounts through FEMA's Community Rating System.

A document that shows how high your home sits compared to expected flood levels. In some cases it can help with pricing.

An NFIP policy can often be transferred to the new owner. Ask before closing.

Stay safe, take photos and video of all damage before cleaning, remove standing water when it's safe, and report your claim right away. Then call me and I'll help you through it.

Report the claim to your flood insurer as soon as possible, document the damage with photos, and keep receipts for cleanup. An adjuster will inspect the damage.

No. Disaster aid, when available, is limited and often comes as a loan you repay. Flood insurance pays on your claim whether or not a disaster is declared. Source: FloodSmart (FEMA)

Caballaro Agency is at 1800 West Loop South, Suite 1700, near the Galleria. I help individuals and families compare plans, check doctors and prescriptions, and see if they qualify for savings. Call or text (281) 660-8741.

Sí, hablo español. I help clients enroll in English or Spanish, so you understand your plan in the language you prefer.

Several carriers offer individual and family plans in Houston, on and off the Marketplace. Networks differ, so the right one depends on the doctors and hospitals you want to keep.

It depends on your age, household size, income and plan level. Many people qualify for savings that lower the monthly price. A quote shows your real number.

The right plan is the one that covers your doctors and prescriptions at a price that fits your budget. That's different for every family, which is why I compare options side by side.

Texas did not expand Medicaid, so many adults without children don't qualify. Children, pregnant women and some low-income parents may. If you don't qualify, you may still get help on the Marketplace. Source: HealthCare.gov

No. Texas has not expanded Medicaid, which is why Marketplace plans and savings matter for many Texans. Source: HealthCare.gov

CHIP covers children in families that earn too much for Medicaid but need help with coverage. Eligibility depends on household income and size.

On HealthCare.gov, Open Enrollment runs November 1 through January 15. Enroll by December 15 for coverage that starts January 1. Source: HealthCare.gov

December 15. If you enroll after that during Open Enrollment, your coverage generally starts February 1. Source: HealthCare.gov

Yes, if you have a qualifying life event, like losing coverage, moving, getting married or having a baby. For many events you have 60 days to enroll. Source: HealthCare.gov

Common ones include losing other coverage, getting married, having or adopting a baby, and moving. Each one opens a special enrollment window. Source: HealthCare.gov

After many qualifying life events, you have 60 days to enroll in a new plan. If you miss it, you usually have to wait for Open Enrollment. Source: HealthCare.gov

Yes. Losing job-based coverage is a qualifying life event, so you can enroll in a new plan within the special enrollment window. I'll compare it with COBRA for you. Source: HealthCare.gov

It depends on your household income and size. A quote is the simplest way to see what you qualify for.

Not on Marketplace plans. They must cover treatment for pre-existing conditions. Short-term plans follow different rules. Source: HealthCare.gov

Usually until you turn 26. Source: HealthCare.gov

Yes. You can buy an individual plan and may qualify for savings. Your tax professional can tell you whether you can deduct your premiums.

It depends. COBRA keeps your same plan, but you pay the full cost. A Marketplace plan may cost less if you qualify for savings. I'll compare both.

HMOs usually require referrals and in-network care. PPOs let you see out-of-network doctors at a higher cost. EPOs usually don't need referrals but only cover in-network care.

They show how costs are split. Bronze has lower premiums and higher costs when you get care. Gold and Platinum cost more each month but less when you use care.

Check the plan's provider directory before you enroll, or ask me to check it for you.

Each plan has a drug list called a formulary. I check your prescriptions against it before you pick a plan.

A licensed agent can enroll you in Marketplace plans and help you compare options and fix problems later.

The review is free. If there is a fee on a placement, you will know the number before you decide anything.

It's what you pay for covered care each year before your plan starts sharing the cost. Many preventive services are covered before the deductible.

It's the limit on what you pay for covered in-network care in a year. Once you reach it, your plan pays for covered in-network care for the rest of the year.

Yes. Marketplace plans cover many preventive services, like certain checkups and screenings, at no cost with an in-network provider.

Marketplace plans cover mental health and substance use services as essential health benefits.

There's no federal penalty anymore, and Texas doesn't have its own. Going without coverage still leaves you exposed to medical bills. Source: HealthCare.gov

Caballaro Agency is at 1800 West Loop South, Suite 1700, near the Galleria. I compare life insurance options across carriers and help you choose an amount that fits. Call or text (281) 660-8741.

Look for a licensed independent agent who compares several carriers, explains options plainly and doesn't push one product. You can check any Texas agent's license with the Texas Department of Insurance. Source: Texas Department of Insurance

Sí, hablo español. I help clients with life insurance in English or Spanish.

It depends on your age, health, coverage amount and policy type. A quote shows your real price.

Yes. Life policies include a free-look period after delivery when you can cancel for a refund. Check your policy for the exact length.

Use the Texas Department of Insurance website to look up any company or agent. Source: Texas Department of Insurance

If anyone depends on your income, or you'd leave behind debts like a mortgage, life insurance can protect them. If no one relies on you financially, you may need less.

It depends on your income, debts, mortgage and the years your family would need support. I'll walk through the numbers with you.

Coverage for a set period, like 10, 20 or 30 years. It's often the simplest way to get a larger amount of coverage for a set time.

Permanent coverage that lasts your whole life as long as premiums are paid. It costs more than term for the same amount.

Term covers you for a set period. Whole life covers you for life as long as premiums are paid, and costs more.

It depends on what you need covered and for how long. Term fits needs with an end date, like a mortgage. Whole life fits lifelong needs. I'll show you both.

It depends on your age, health, term length and coverage amount. I'll quote a few options so you can compare.

It may not be. Work coverage may be lower than you need, and it often ends when you leave the job.

It usually ends. Some plans let you convert or continue it, often at a higher cost.

It's a good time to review it. A policy can help your family keep the home if something happens to you.

Enough to cover your income for the years your child will depend on you, plus debts and future costs. I'll help you work out the amount.

Often, yes. Replacing child care, household work and transportation costs real money, even without a paycheck.

Often, yes. It can help protect your family and pay off debts, including business debts you've personally guaranteed.

The coverage ends. Many term policies let you convert to permanent coverage within a set time, so check before the term runs out.

Generally, no. The IRS says death proceeds paid to a beneficiary generally aren't included in gross income. Interest earned on the payout may be taxed. Source: IRS

It depends on the insurer and the claim. Having the death certificate and policy details ready helps the process.

Usually the people who rely on you financially, like a spouse or children. Name a backup beneficiary too.

You can, but a minor can't receive the money directly. Many families name a trust or custodian. An attorney can help with the right setup.

Not always. Some policies ask health questions only, while others include an exam.

Often, yes. Many managed conditions can still qualify, and some policies don't ask medical questions at all.

Yes. Term and permanent options are available at 60 and beyond. Price goes up with age.

A smaller whole life policy meant to cover funeral costs and final bills.

Yes. Many people have a work policy plus a personal policy, or more than one policy for different needs.

An independent agent compares several carriers, helps with health questions and supports your family at claim time. Buying online usually means seeing one company.

Caballaro Agency is at 1800 West Loop South, Suite 1700, near the Galleria. I compare group health and benefits options across carriers for Houston businesses and help with enrollment. Call or text (281) 660-8741.

Several carriers offer small group plans in Houston. An independent agent can compare them for you, so you see more than one company's option.

It depends on your employees' ages, location, plan design and how much you contribute. A quote based on your team shows your real cost.

It depends on your team's size, ages, budget and the doctors your employees use. I compare fully insured, level-funded and other options side by side.

Yes. An ICHRA or QSEHRA lets you reimburse employees for individual health plans they choose, with a budget you set. I'll explain the rules for each.

Yes. In Texas, small employer health plans cover businesses with 2 to 50 employees. I'll walk you through what applies to your business. Source: Texas Insurance Code Ch. 1501

It lets some employees keep group coverage for a period after leaving when federal COBRA doesn't apply, usually at smaller employers. I can confirm what applies to your plan. Source: U.S. Department of Labor

Benefits help you hire and keep good people. Even a small business can offer solid options with the right plan setup.

Sí, hablo español. I can explain the plans to your employees in English or Spanish so everyone understands what they're getting.

In Texas, small employer plans generally start at 2 employees. If you're a one-person business, an individual plan may fit better. Source: Texas Insurance Code Ch. 1501

Only if you have an average of at least 50 full-time employees, including equivalents. Smaller businesses aren't required to, but many choose to. Source: IRS

Employers with an average of at least 50 full-time employees, including equivalents, may owe a payment if they don't offer affordable, qualifying coverage to full-time employees. Source: IRS

An employee who works on average at least 30 hours of service per week, or 130 hours per month. Source: IRS

Carriers set minimum employer contribution rules, and they vary by carrier. I'll show you each carrier's requirement when I quote.

Carriers require a minimum share of eligible employees to enroll, often not counting employees with other coverage. Rules vary by carrier, and I'll explain each one.

It varies by age, location and plan design. I build quotes around your actual team so you see real numbers, not averages.

Renewals can rise with medical costs, your group's claims and your employees' ages. The renewal is a starting point to compare against.

Often, comparing other carriers or a different funding setup can change the number. Start a few months before your renewal date.

Compare carriers, adjust plan design, look at level-funded options, or pair a higher-deductible plan with an HSA or HRA.

You pay a set monthly amount. Depending on the carrier's terms, part of the surplus may come back to you if your group's claims run lower than expected.

The traditional option. You pay a set premium and the insurance company takes on the claims risk.

An Individual Coverage HRA lets employers reimburse employees for individual health insurance, with a monthly budget the employer sets.

A reimbursement arrangement for small employers that don't offer group coverage. It reimburses employees for individual premiums up to yearly limits set by the IRS.

Employer contributions to employee health premiums are generally deductible as a business expense. Your tax professional can confirm it for your business.

Employers with fewer than 25 full-time equivalent employees may qualify if they offer a plan through the SHOP Marketplace and pay at least 50 percent of employee-only premiums. Other rules apply. Source: IRS

It lets employees pay their share of premiums before taxes. Your payroll provider and tax professional can confirm how it applies to your business.

Usually a list of employees with ages and ZIP codes, your current plan and renewal if you have one, and your business information.

A few months before your renewal date. Quoting a group properly takes time, and it leaves room to explain changes to your team.

Yes. Small group plans can generally start on the first of any month, not just during an open enrollment period.

Benefits can help you hire and keep good people. I'll show you options at different budgets so you can decide what fits.