Any questions?
(877) 417-8733

Protecting Your Manufactured Home in Laredo TX.

Covertree’s Comprehensive Guide!

Powered by

Disclaimer: Data Accuracy and Sources

The data in the Covertree Resources section is from publicly available sources last updated in December 2022. We provide source links for verification. However, we can't guarantee accuracy. Rely on this data at your own discretion. For specific advice, consult professionals.

A Guide to Mobile Home Insurance in Laredo, TX: Costs, Coverage, and Considerations

Welcome to Laredo, Texas -a tapestry of cultures along the Rio Grande! Perched on the banks of the meandering Rio Grande, Laredo serves as one of the most intriguing crossroads between the United States and Mexico. As the largest inland port on the U.S.-Mexican border, Laredo is more than just a gateway; it's a mosaic of rich histories, cultures, and traditions, blending the warmth of Texan hospitality with the vibrancy of Mexican heritage.

Laredo's origins can be traced back to 1755, when it was founded by Tomás Sánchez in the Spanish colony of Nuevo Santander. Over time, the city transitioned from Spanish to Mexican rule, and subsequently became a part of the United States following the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848. Laredo's unique position as a border town has made it a significant player in the annals of Texan and American history, bearing witness to revolutions, trade booms, and the ever-shifting dance of cultures.

Laredo's significance is manifold. As a major port of entry, it plays a pivotal role in international trade between the U.S. and Mexico, making it an economic linchpin in the region. Furthermore, its bilingual and bicultural identity offers a fascinating perspective into the harmonious blending of American and Mexican cultures.

When you visit or move to Laredo, make sure you go these places right away:

San Agustín de Laredo Historic District: Step back in time as you stroll through this district, home to the beautiful San Agustín Cathedral and an array of historic structures that evoke the city's colonial past.

The Republic of the Rio Grande Museum: Delve into Laredo's unique history as a short-lived independent nation with this museum set in a charming historic house.

Lake Casa Blanca International State Park: Whether it's fishing, boating, or just basking in the sun, this lake offers a serene escape from urban hustle.

Laredo Center for the Arts: Situated in the heart of the historic district, this center celebrates the city's artistic and cultural endeavors.

Annual Washington's Birthday Celebration: Laredo boasts one of the largest celebrations in honor of George Washington's birthday, a month-long fiesta of parades, carnivals, and concerts that reflect its bicultural spirit. Here are some interesting facts about Laredo you may not have known about: Laredo once declared itself the "Republic of the Rio Grande" in 1840, becoming an independent nation for a brief 283 days before rejoining Mexico.

The city hosts a unique event called "Abrazo Ceremony" each year on the International Bridge, where children from Mexico and the U.S. exchange hugs, symbolizing unity and friendship. Laredo doesn't have a traditional bus station. Instead, buses from all over North America use a former downtown grocery store as the city's transit hub.

Laredo is a city where the past and present converge, where tales of yesteryears echo amidst modern beats, and where every corner narrates a story of unity, diversity, and endurance. Whether you're drawn to its historic streets, the allure of the Rio Grande, or the harmonious fusion of Texan and Mexican cultures, Laredo promises a journey that transcends borders.

Understanding Mobile home Insurance in Texas.

Do I Need Mobile Home Insurance in Texas?

Texas Mobile Home Insurance Costs Explained

Mobile home insurance is essential for safeguarding your most valuable asset. Prices in Texas typically range from $250 to $1,300 annually, influenced by various factors. Deciding between actual cash value and replacement cost coverage will also impact both premiums and compensation amounts in case of a claim.

Insurance rates are influenced by:

* e.g. A five-year-old home bought for $50,000 but now worth $35,000 will be compensated at $35,000.
** Typically has higher premiums but offers more compensation during a claim.

Unique Considerations for Texas Mobile Home Insurance!

Mobile Home Insurance Coverage in Texas:

Filing a Mobile Home Insurance Claim in Texas:

Tips for Purchasing Mobile Home Insurance in Texas:

Remember, while insurance might seem optional, it provides invaluable peace of mind against potential financial setbacks.

Choosing the Ideal Texas Homeowners Insurance Policy:

The apt insurance policy largely hinges on your home type, repair or rebuilding costs, and the worth of your belongings. It's often a smart move to opt for the most robust protection within your budget. This is especially true if you haven't set aside a significant emergency fund. Though a comprehensive policy with a lower deductible might require higher premiums, it ensures quick recovery after a substantial loss.

As your savings grow, you might consider increasing your deductible to decrease your premium. But here's a pro tip: sometimes, a $1,000 deductible isn't much pricier than a $5,000 one. In such instances, the minimal extra expense can prove invaluable in the event of a large claim.

The location of your mobile home, particularly the zip code in Texas, is a significant factor.

Did You Know ?

Mobile homes in Texas are subject to the Mobile Home Commission Act!

You Need: The HO-7: Texas Mobile Home Form

What Does an HO-7 Policy Cover?

Type of Homes: Mobile or manufactured homes (trailers, single/double-wide mobile homes, RVs, modular homes, etc.).

Open perils, covering almost everything unless specifically excluded.
Named perils, only covers for specific causes of loss listed on the policy.
Coverage is based on replacement cost, not the market rate.
Coverage for named perils only. Examples of named perils: lightning, hail, fire, theft, vandalism, explosions, water damage from plumbing, etc.
Sub-limits for certain valuables (e.g., jewelry, firearms, electronics). Jewelry: $1,500 (theft-only) Firearms: $2,500 Electronics: Varies
Protection against bodily injuries or property damage you’re found liable for.
Covers expenses if the mobile home becomes uninhabitable.
Covers medical expenses for injuries in the mobile home (surgery, ambulance fees, X-rays, etc.).

What Does an HO-7 Policy NOT Cover?

Personal property damage that doesn't fit the named perils.

Exclusions include:

Understand The HO-3: Texas Special Form

The HO-3 policy is the predominant homeowners insurance in Texas. It offers open-peril coverage for homes and related structures, covering all damages unless specifically excluded.

Exclusions typically include:

Personal property, however, is only covered for specified risks.

Additional Insurance Policy Options:

Even if you’ve chosen the HO-7 or another base form for your policy, you might still want to contemplate additional coverage for specific scenarios. Here are some prevalent options:

This is a basic policy, covering only named perils. It offers actual cash value instead of replacement cost coverage. Designed mainly for vacant properties or standalone structures, all occupancy types can avail of this policy. However, for liability or personal property coverage, you’ll have to incorporate these features.
Also termed a landlord’s policy, the DP-3 is tailored for rental properties. It covers the property’s structure, provides liability coverage for accidents, and even ensures your rental income in case your tenants need to vacate due to a covered loss.
An essential policy if someone incurs severe injuries on your property with damages soaring above $1 million. This policy offers extra liability coverage exceeding the limits of a standard homeowner’s insurance policy. You would need a substantial underlying coverage to qualify.
For those treasured high-value possessions, like jewelry or electronics, a scheduled coverage is necessary. This is because typical personal property coverage under your dwelling policy has limits on payout for such items.
This coverage is your safeguard against costly damages arising from sump pump failures or sewer backups. Without this endorsement, such water damages won’t be covered.
Fires, floods, and other disasters can strike at any time, and these events usually occur when you least expect them. Unless you have the funds to make the needed repairs, you could be stuck without a home. Starting from scratch can be almost impossible. Insurance is a life-saving necessity for you and your family.

Even though you don't want to think about possible disasters, it's vital for everyone to understand their possible risks so that they can prepare for the unthinkable. With an effective insurance plan, you can live worry-free of losing your items or home.

Choosing the Right Mobile Home Insurance for Laredo, TX.

Weather Risks:

In Laredo, TX, climate changes are leading to a range of environmental challenges that impact residents, particularly those living in mobile homes. Here, we highlight the three most pressing weather risks for mobile home owners in Laredo:

Excessive Heat and Heatwaves

Laredo has historically experienced scorching temperatures. However, with the progression of climate change, the severity and frequency of heatwaves have intensified. While Laredo residents experienced roughly 7 days above 105.1ºF in the past (1985-2005), projections estimate that by 2050, there will be an average of 50 days each year exceeding this temperature.

Insurance Implications for Mobile Home Owners

Mobile homes often struggle to retain cool temperatures, making them more susceptible to the intense heat. Constant exposure to high temperatures can weaken the materials and structure of mobile homes. The absence of proper cooling systems can lead to severe health issues, as was evident in cases where Laredo residents succumbed to extreme indoor temperatures.

Flooding and Precipitation Risks

Laredo is becoming more vulnerable to both surface and riverine flooding. About 38% of the buildings in the city face a high risk of flooding. While annual precipitation rates remain consistent, the extreme storm events are slightly increasing, posing challenges for property owners.

Implications for Mobile Home Owners:

Flooding can destabilize the ground beneath mobile homes, making them prone to tipping or shifting. Water ingress can lead to property damage, mold growth, and potential health risks. Rapid flooding can trap residents inside mobile homes, posing life-threatening risks.

Wildfire Risk

12% of Laredo’s buildings are at significant risk from wildfires. As global temperatures rise, conditions become drier and more conducive for wildfires to spread. Proximity to vegetation plays a role in determining fire risk levels.

Implications for Mobile Home Owners:

Wildfires can quickly engulf mobile homes, given their lightweight construction and materials. Smoke and airborne particles from nearby fires can also pose health risks. Fires can damage utilities and infrastructure, cutting off essential services.

Laredo's challenges with drought :

Laredo's challenges with drought, while significant, are currently perceived as a lower immediate threat compared to the aforementioned risks for mobile home residents. However, it's crucial for all residents to understand the interconnected nature of these risks – as heat increases, it can exacerbate drought conditions, which in turn can heighten fire risks.

For those in Laredo, especially mobile home residents, staying informed, being prepared, and taking proactive measures are the best ways to ensure safety and protect property.

Recommended Neighborhoods in Laredo, TX.

Property Crime Rates in Laredo, TX.

Laredo, Texas, presents a unique crime profile, with its rates higher than the national average but showcasing a different trend when juxtaposed against similarly sized cities. A deep dive into the city's crime statistics provides a more detailed perspective on its safety standards.

Laredo, with its rate of 16 crimes per one thousand residents, exceeds the national average crime rate. However, it doesn't fall among communities with the very peak of crime rates.

Individuals in Laredo face a 1 in 64 chance of encountering either violent or property crime.

When compared with other cities and towns within Texas, Laredo's crime rate surpasses 65% of them, as per the FBI's data.

Intriguingly, when evaluated against American cities of a similar population, it emerged that Laredo's crime rate is among the lowest for its size. This places Laredo as one of the safer places to live in the U.S. for cities within its population bracket.

Violent Crime Analysis:

Violent crime in Laredo remains a significant concern. The city experiences a rate that's higher than a majority of American communities of all sizes. Incidences such as armed robbery, aggravated assault, rape, and murder occur at a rate of 3 per one thousand residents. This sets the probability of an individual in Laredo becoming a victim of violent crime at 1 in 318.

Property Crime Analysis:

Laredo's property crime rate stands at 12 per one thousand residents. This rate is higher than the national average for all communities, irrespective of their size. Within this category, crimes like motor vehicle theft, arson, larceny, and burglary are considered. In Laredo, the likelihood of falling victim to any property crime stands at 1 in 81.

Despite having a crime rate exceeding the national average, Laredo distinguishes itself as safer than most when compared to similarly sized cities. However, with its violent and property crime rates, there's undeniable room for improvement in ensuring the safety and security of its residents.

Choice of 6 insurance coverage in Laredo, TX.

Regular Wear and Tear:

What it is: Coverage that addresses the depreciation and regular damage that homes naturally undergo over time.

Why it's needed: While typical policies don't cover simple wear and tear, certain riders might offer coverage for accelerated or unusual wear that's unexpected.

Service Line Coverage:

What it is: Protects against damage to underground utility lines or service lines, like water and sewage.

Why it's needed: Repairs to service lines can be expensive, and they're not always covered by local utilities or standard policies.

Law/Ordinance Coverage:

What it is: If a mobile home gets damaged and needs repair or replacement, this coverage pays for any increased costs due to current building codes or ordinances.

Why it's needed: Building regulations change over time. This ensures homes are rebuilt to current standards without out-of-pocket expenses.

Mold Remediation Coverage:

What it is: Covers costs related to mold removal and repair.

Why it's needed: Mold can lead to health problems and structural damage. Mobile homes, especially in humid areas, may be vulnerable.

Identity Theft Coverage:

What it is: Protection against the financial fallout of identity theft, often covering expenses like legal fees or lost wages.

Why it's needed: With the rise in digital transactions and online activities, identity theft is a growing concern.

Home Business Coverage:

What it is: Extends protection to business-related activities and assets in a mobile home, covering equipment, inventory, or even liability.

Why it's needed: Standard homeowners insurance doesn't cover business activities. If a homeowner runs a business from their mobile home, this ensures they're adequately protected.

Did You Know ?

Individuals living in manufactured home communities, who typically buy their manufactured home and rent the lot, are subject to different laws. However, if you live in a mobile home outside these communities, you're governed by the same laws as house or apartment renters, primarily found in Chapter 92 of the Texas Property Statutes.

Mobile Home Facts : Texas

Treatment of Manufactured Home as Real Property:

According to the Texas Underwriting Manual TX: 12.24:

Learn about the TMHA!

The Texas Manufactured Housing Association's core mission is to champion the broader objectives and concerns of the manufactured housing sector across Texas.

Consisting of devoted professionals, TMHA actively advocates for their members and the broader Texas manufactured housing community, especially through dedicated representation in the Texas Legislature. Being a member-driven association, their main emphasis is on equipping their extensive network of over 1,400 members with vital resources and insights to thrive in their businesses.

If you're part of the manufactured housing sector and haven't yet joined TMHA, we highly recommend you do so immediately!

Learn about Texas Homeowner Assistance: Two Vital Programs!

Texas residents who are struggling with home-related expenses have two vital assistance programs available: the Texas Homeowner Assistance Program due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the Homeowner Assistance Program (HAP) following Hurricane Harvey.

Treatment of Manufactured Home as Real Property:

Purpose: Support homeowners impacted by Hurricane Harvey to repair, rebuild, and enhance their homes.

Services Offered: Financial support for affected homeowners.

Homeowner Assistance Program (HAP):

Purpose: Support homeowners impacted by Hurricane Harvey to repair, rebuild, and enhance their homes.

Services Offered: Home repairs and rehabilitation I Home reconstruction I Enhancements for better resilience against natural disasters I Elevating homes above flood levels along with reconstruction aid I Temporary relocation aid

Residents are encouraged to assess their eligibility and take advantage of these programs to secure and improve their homes.

Texas Coastal Property Insurance Pool Programs!

The Texas Coastal Insurance Pool (TCIP), formerly known as the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA), is a vital insurance entity designed to protect homeowners in the Texas coastal regions. Established in the face of limited private insurance options, the TCIP provides wind and hail coverage to properties located in certain parts of Texas's seacoast territory.

Key Features:

Primarily, the TCIP offers windstorm and hail damage insurance for homeowners who might not find coverage in the private market due to the heightened risk associated with coastal regions.
Residential and commercial properties in the 14 coastal counties and certain parts of Harris County (east of Highway 146) are eligible. However, to qualify, properties must comply with the windstorm building code for the region.
While the TCIP operates similarly to a typical insurance company, it is different in its financial structure. In the case of significant catastrophic losses, the association has the ability to recoup losses through premium surcharges or bonds, ensuring continuity of coverage for its policyholders.
With the growing threat of hurricanes and tropical storms in the Texas coastal regions, the TCIP plays a pivotal role in ensuring that homeowners can obtain the necessary insurance protection against these natural disasters.

Rates:

Inland of the Intracoastal Canal $2.50 per $100 coverage 42 Effective October 1, 2008 Seaward of the Intracoastal Canal $5.00 per $100 coverage

Eligibility for TWIA:

A mobile home located in a designated catastrophe area that meets the following criteria is eligible to be insured under the T.W.I.A. Dwelling Policy with Form No. TWIA-411, Conversion to TWIA Manufactured Home Policy attached to the policy.

The mobile home complies with the definition of manufactured home under the rules and regulations of the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA).
The mobile home is occupied solely as a one or two family residence.
The mobile home is blocked and tied down in accordance with the current state generic standards promulgated by the TDHCA or with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

The mobile home has been inspected, and an inspection approval form has been completed and issued verifying that the home is blocked and tied down in accordance with the required standards with no violations of these standards. The form may be on file with the TDHCA. If a form is not on file with the TDHCA or the form is over five years old, a new inspection approval form that indicates no violations of the blocking and tie down requirements must be obtained through an installer licensed by the TDHCA. 41 Effective October 1, 2008

Homes manufactured on and after September 1, 1997, must be designated by the manufacturer as Zone II homes to be insurable through the Association.

Additions to Mobile Homes:

Limit of Liability:

The maximum limit of liability for a mobile home, including any site-built additions attached to the home, and household goods is $84,000.

Deductibles:

Policy Forms & Endorsements:

The following policy form is to be used: T.W.I.A. Dwelling Policy with Form No. TWIA-411, Conversion to TWIA Manufactured Home Policy attached to the policy

Important Endorsements in Texas:

What it is: Provides coverage that a manufactured housing unit has been affixed to the land, has been converted to real property and that there are no personal property taxes or personal property liens attached to the MHU.

Why it’s needed: This endorsement is issued in conjunction with a T-2 Loan Policy to insure a manufactured housing unit located on the land. Manufactured housing includes mobile homes and other manufactured housing permanently attached to the land as a fixture.

What it is: An addition or modification to a standard insurance policy that provides coverage for damages caused by sinkholes. A sinkhole is a depression or hole in the ground caused by the collapse of a surface layer, often due to the dissolution of limestone or other soluble rocks below the surface. When it occurs under a property, it can cause significant damage or total loss of the structure.

Why it's needed: Not all standard homeowners' insurance policies cover damage caused by sinkholes. In areas prone to sinkhole activity, this endorsement is crucial. A sinkhole can render a home uninhabitable, and without this coverage, homeowners could face substantial financial losses. By adding this endorsement, homeowners are protecting their investment and ensuring they won't be left without resources to repair or rebuild in the event of a sinkhole disaster.

Sudden and Accidental Discharge, Eruption, Overflow or Release of Water or Steam:

What it is: This endorsement provides coverage for damage caused by the unexpected and unintentional release of water or steam from plumbing, heating, air conditioning, or automatic fire protective systems within the mobile home.

Why it's needed: Mobile homes, like any other residential structure, are vulnerable to unforeseen internal water or steam damage, which can be costly to repair. Such incidents might include a burst pipe, malfunctioning water heater, or broken appliance hose. By adding this endorsement to their insurance policy, mobile homeowners can protect themselves financially from the damages and repair costs resulting from these sudden and unexpected events.

Additional Policy Riders for Mobile Home Insurance in Texas:

Adding policy options to a basic insurance plan is a common practice in the mobile home insurance industry. While the events covered in mobile home policies are similar across all states, additional coverage options, known as add-ons, endorsements, and riders, may vary depending on your location and insurance provider. Each of these options comes at an additional cost that can be customized according to your needs.

Provides protection against flood-related damages, excluding waterline or sewer backups. Average annual cost: $700.
The mobile home is occupied solely as a one or two family residence.

defends against damages when drains, pipes, or sewers back up, but not from floods.  Annual cost range: $50-$250.

helps homeowners meet current building codes during repairs or reconstruction, ensuring updates to older homes meet modern standards. Costs: Anywhere between 10% to 25% of dwelling coverage.
offers specialized coverage for high-value items like jewelry or art.
is for home-based businesses, ensuring business property stored at home is covered. Costs vary based on asset value.

aids in managing identity theft-related expenses, from legal fees to credit monitoring. Annual cost range: $20-$60.

Adding any rider will increase your premiums, influenced by location, risk profile, chosen coverage, and deductible. Riders can be added during initial policy purchase, at renewal, or anytime during the policy period. Some carriers might not offer all endorsements, so shopping around might be necessary.

Finding A Manufactured Home or Mobile Home Community In Laredo, TX

If you're in the market for a mobile or manufactured home in Laredo, it's important to have access to reliable and trustworthy information. We have compiled valuable information about the best local manufactured home dealers and communities in Laredo.

Santa Fe Mobile Home Park

Located at 3710 Loop 20, Bldg. C, Ste 2, Laredo, TX 78046
All-ages community with a range of features
Provides off-street parking, recreational facilities, and more
Offers homes with peaked roofs and lap siding
Contact for additional details and availability

A & G Mobile Home & RV Parts, Inc.

Offers a large selection of items for mobile homes and RV needs
Located at 220 E. San Pedro Rear, Laredo, Texas 78041
Provides various parts and accessories
Contact: Phone: 956-722-5559

Towne North Mobile Home Park

Located at 301 International Blvd, Laredo, TX 78045
Offers lots for bringing your own home Park rules are applicable and binding
Contact: Phone: (956)-727-1222,
Email: townenorthmhp@gmail.com

Manufactured Housing Consultants

Offers a wide range of manufactured homes from 9 manufacturers
Provides financing options for various credit situations
Located at 5221 S Zapata Hwy, Laredo, TX 78046
Special credit repair program available Contact: Phone: (866) 847-6216

Legacy Housing

Laredo's authorized Legacy retailer Offers affordable, high-quality Legacy Housing manufactured homes
Provides customization options and various floorplans
Located at 5221 S Zapata Hwy, Laredo, TX 78046
Contact: Phone: (866) 847-6216

New Home Source

Build On Your Land Homes in Laredo, TX with NewHomeSource
Enjoy the location of your choosing Experience increased energy
efficiency, better insulation, and new, warrantied parts
NewHomeSource works with 9 builders who specialize in build on your land homes in Laredo, TX
Prices for build on your land homes start at $0
Initial bedroom/bathroom counts begin at 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms

These are just a few of the best local and national manufactured home retailers, manufacturers, dealers, and communities in Laredo, TX. When choosing a manufactured home, it's essential to do your research and find a reputable provider that meets your needs and budget.

Finding the Best Mobile Home Insurance in Laredo, TX

It's essential to compare quotes from various insurance providers and work with local agencies that understand Laredo's specific risks. You also need to be vocal about being able to customize your policy to cover specific needs like monsoon or dust storm damages. Always remember to ask about any available discounts that you may be eligible for!

These are some things you should look out for in an insurance plan for Laredo:

  • Protection against windstorms and hail, common weather risks in Laredo, ensuring coverage for damages caused by severe weather events.

For those traveling close to the Mexican border, this coverage addresses potential risks specific to border areas, including unique liability and travel concerns.
Given Laredo’s crime rates, this coverage provides financial protection in case of vandalism, burglary, or theft of property from your mobile home or RV.
Covers situations that might arise when crossing international borders, addressing potential complications or risks associated with traveling near the Mexican border.
Laredo’s proximity to the Rio Grande River and the potential for heavy rainfall makes flood insurance crucial to safeguard against flooding events.
Considering the region’s vulnerability to hurricanes and other emergencies, this coverage helps with evacuation costs if you need to move your RV due to impending hazards.

Now that you've got the lowdown on mobile home insurance coverage in Laredo TX, don't hesitate to get a CoverTree quote now.

References: 

CoverTree Brand Logo

Any questions?
+1 (877) 417-8733

Enter your address for an instant quote.

Street Address