As an independent agency representing 80+ carriers, Neal & Neal Insurance helps homeowners in Texas, Georgia, Colorado, Oklahoma, and New Mexico find the right coverage at the right price. Here are the questions we hear most from prospective buyers.

Your policy needs to cover the full replacement cost of your home — meaning what it would cost to rebuild it from the ground up using today’s labor and materials, not what you paid for it or what it’s worth on the market. These numbers can differ significantly, especially given recent rises in construction costs.

Most standard HO-3 policies include dwelling coverage, other structures (detached garage, fences), personal property, loss of use, liability protection, and medical payments to others. Each of these limits should be reviewed carefully.

Neal & Neal Tip: Because we’re independent agents, we can shop your coverage across dozens of carriers to find the policy that closes gaps — not just the cheapest premium. We’ll also give your policy a free annual review so your coverage keeps up with your home’s value.

Standard homeowners policies have important exclusions that surprise many buyers. The most common are:

• Flood damage — requires a separate flood insurance policy (available through FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program or private carriers)
• Earthquake and earth movement damage — also requires a separate endorsement or policy
• Sewer or drain backup — often excluded unless you add an endorsement
• Normal wear and tear, maintenance issues, and pest damage
• High-value items such as jewelry, fine art, collectibles, and firearms may also exceed standard personal property sub-limits and require a scheduled endorsement.

Neal & Neal Tip: Texas homeowners should be especially aware of flood risk — even outside designated flood zones. We can help you evaluate whether a separate flood policy makes sense for your property.

Insurers weigh many factors when pricing a homeowners policy, including the home’s age, construction type, roof condition, location, claims history, credit score (in most states), proximity to a fire station, and the coverage limits and deductible you choose.
Common ways to reduce your premium:

• Bundle your home and auto insurance with the same carrier (typically 10–25% savings)
• Raise your deductible — moving from $1,000 to $2,500 can meaningfully lower your annual premium
• Install protective devices such as a monitored alarm system, deadbolt locks, or a whole-home generator
• Maintain a claims-free history — carriers reward loyalty and clean records

Neal & Neal Tip: Because we represent 80+ carriers, we’re able to compare pricing across the market and present you with the best available combination of coverage and cost — something a captive (single-company) agent simply cannot do.

If something happens to your home, contact your agent or carrier as soon as possible. You’ll typically need to document the damage with photos, list damaged or stolen items, and cooperate with an adjuster who will assess the loss. Your insurer will then offer a settlement based on your coverage and deductible.

As for rates: filing a claim can affect your premium at renewal, depending on the carrier, the type of claim, and your history. Carriers track claims data, and some will non-renew policies after multiple claims in a short period. For smaller losses close to your deductible, it may make more sense financially to pay out of pocket.

Neal & Neal Tip: We help clients think through the “should I file?” decision before they do. And because we’re not tied to one company, if a carrier does raise your rates at renewal, we can re-shop your coverage across the market to find better terms.

When you buy directly from a single insurance company — online or through a captive agent — you only see that company’s products and pricing. An independent agent represents multiple carriers and can shop the entire market on your behalf.
The practical advantages:

• Unbiased advice — our recommendation is always what’s best for you, not what benefits one carrier
• Broader choice — access to 80+ top-rated carriers means more options for unusual homes, higher-risk properties, or complex coverage needs
• Ongoing service — a real person who knows your policy handles renewals, endorsements, and claims support
• Annual reviews — we proactively reach out at renewal to make sure your coverage still fits your life

Neal & Neal Tip: Neal & Neal Insurance has been serving North Texas families and businesses since 1991 — over 30 years as an independent agency. Our team averages more than 75 years of combined experience. Quotes are always free, and in most cases we can have one ready for you the same day.

Call us at 940-387-8281 or email dan@nealins.com
4202 N. I-35, Denton, Texas 76207 | nealins.com
Serving Texas, Georgia, Colorado, Oklahoma, and New Mexico