How to Get Mobile Home Insurance in Fort Worth

Moving into a mobile home in Fort Worth offers affordability, flexibility, and a sense of community—but it also comes with unique risks. Unlike traditional site-built homes, mobile homes are more vulnerable to wind damage, flooding, and structural wear due to their construction and placement. Without proper insurance, a single storm, fire, or theft could result in devastating financial loss. Mobile home insurance in Fort Worth is not just recommended—it’s often required by lenders, park management, or local ordinances. Understanding how to secure the right coverage tailored to your home’s location, age, and value is essential for long-term peace of mind. This guide walks you through every step of obtaining comprehensive mobile home insurance in Fort Worth, from evaluating your needs to comparing providers and filing claims, with real-world insights and tools to help you make confident, informed decisions.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand What Mobile Home Insurance Covers

Mobile home insurance is not the same as standard homeowners insurance. It’s specifically designed for manufactured or mobile homes, which are built in factories and transported to a site. In Fort Worth, where weather events like hailstorms, tornadoes, and flash floods are common, coverage must address these regional risks. A typical policy includes:

• Dwelling coverage – Protects the physical structure of your mobile home, including attached garages, decks, and built-in appliances.
• Personal property coverage – Reimburses you for damaged or stolen belongings such as furniture, electronics, clothing, and appliances.
• Liability coverage – Covers medical expenses and legal fees if someone is injured on your property or if you cause property damage to others.
• Loss of use coverage – Pays for temporary housing if your home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event.
• Additional endorsements – Optional add-ons like flood, earthquake, or windstorm coverage, which are critical in North Texas.

Many policies exclude coverage for wear and tear, improper maintenance, or damage from pests. Review your policy’s exclusions carefully. In Fort Worth, where hailstorms cause over $1 billion in damages annually, ensuring your policy includes hail protection is non-negotiable.

Step 2: Determine Your Home’s Replacement Value

Before shopping for insurance, you must know how much it would cost to replace your mobile home if it were destroyed. This is called the replacement cost—not the market value or what you paid for it. For example, a 2018 single-wide mobile home purchased for $60,000 may cost $90,000 to replace today due to inflation, labor costs, and material shortages.

To estimate replacement value:

• Check your original purchase documents or manufacturer’s invoice.
• Use online calculators from the Insurance Information Institute or the Manufactured Housing Institute.
• Consult a licensed appraiser familiar with mobile homes in Tarrant County.
• Measure your home’s square footage and note upgrades (e.g., energy-efficient windows, metal roofing, insulation).

Underinsuring your home can leave you with a significant gap if a total loss occurs. For instance, if your home is worth $85,000 to replace but you only carry $60,000 in coverage, you’ll be responsible for the remaining $25,000. Always opt for guaranteed replacement cost coverage if available—it ensures full rebuild even if costs exceed your policy limit.

Step 3: Identify Your Park or Land Ownership Status

Fort Worth has over 120 mobile home parks, and your insurance needs depend on whether you own the land or rent a lot. This distinction affects what’s covered:

• Land ownership – If you own the land your mobile home sits on, your policy should cover the structure, personal property, liability, and detached structures like sheds or carports.
• Rented lot – If you rent space in a mobile home park, your policy typically covers only the home and personal belongings. The park owner usually carries insurance for the land and common areas.

Many parks require proof of insurance before you can move in. Ask for their minimum coverage requirements—some mandate $100,000 in liability, while others may require windstorm coverage. Always request a copy of their insurance guidelines in writing.

Step 4: Gather Required Documentation

Insurance providers in Fort Worth will need specific documents to issue a policy:

• Manufactured home HUD tag (a metal plate on the exterior, usually near the front door, indicating federal compliance).
• Vehicle title or certificate of ownership (for mobile homes, this is often called a “title” rather than a deed).
• Proof of residency (utility bill or lease agreement for the lot).
• Home inspection report (optional but recommended, especially for older homes).
• Photo documentation of the home’s condition (exterior, roof, windows, plumbing, electrical systems).

For homes built before 1976 (pre-HUD), coverage may be limited or unavailable. Many insurers won’t write policies for homes older than 25–30 years unless they’ve been upgraded with storm-resistant features. If your home is older, consider a structural retrofit before applying for insurance.

Step 5: Compare Quotes from Local and Regional Providers

Not all insurers offer mobile home policies in Texas. Some national carriers like State Farm, Allstate, and Farmers have strong Fort Worth presence, while others specialize in manufactured housing, such as Foremost, Shelter Insurance, and USAA (for military families).

To compare effectively:

• Get at least three written quotes using identical coverage parameters (e.g., $100,000 dwelling, $50,000 personal property, $300,000 liability).
• Ask each provider: “Do you cover hail damage without a separate endorsement?” In Fort Worth, this is critical.
• Inquire about discounts: bundling with auto insurance, installing smoke detectors, storm shutters, or having a security system.
• Check the company’s claims satisfaction rating via J.D. Power or the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) website.

Be wary of policies with low premiums but high deductibles—especially for wind and hail. A $2,500 deductible on a $50,000 hail claim can leave you with minimal reimbursement. Look for policies with percentage-based deductibles (e.g., 2% of dwelling value) instead of flat amounts when possible.

Step 6: Review Policy Exclusions and Endorsements

Fort Worth’s climate demands specific protections. Standard policies often exclude:

• Flood damage (even if your home is near the Trinity River or in a low-lying area).
• Earth movement (minor tremors are rare but possible).
• Damage from improper installation or anchoring.
• Damage from lack of maintenance (e.g., rotting underpinning, broken skirting).

Consider these essential endorsements:

• Flood insurance – Purchase through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private provider. Even homes outside mapped flood zones can be affected by flash flooding.
• Windstorm/hail endorsement – Required in many Fort Worth parks. Some carriers offer “hail-specific” coverage with lower deductibles.
• Extended replacement cost – Adds 25–50% above your dwelling limit to cover unexpected cost overruns.
• Personal property replacement cost – Pays to replace items at today’s prices, not their depreciated value.

Ask your agent: “What’s the process for filing a claim after a hailstorm? Do you use local adjusters?” Using a local adjuster familiar with Fort Worth’s common damage patterns (e.g., roof punctures, siding dents) ensures faster, fairer settlements.

Step 7: Finalize and Activate Your Policy

Once you’ve selected a provider:

• Review the Declarations Page—this is your policy summary. Confirm the dwelling amount, deductible, coverage limits, and effective date.
• Pay the initial premium. Most insurers accept credit cards, ACH transfers, or checks.
• Request a digital and printed copy of your policy and proof of insurance card.
• Submit proof of insurance to your mobile home park manager or lender.
• Set calendar reminders for policy renewal and annual inspections.

Do not delay activation. Many parks require insurance to be active before you move in. If you’re financing your home, your lender will require proof of insurance before releasing funds.

Best Practices

Perform Annual Home Inspections

Fort Worth’s extreme temperature swings—from summer highs of 100°F to winter freezes—can cause materials to expand and contract, leading to leaks, cracks, and structural stress. Conduct a biannual inspection of your home’s roof, skirting, foundation anchors, and plumbing. Look for:

• Loose or missing roof shingles or metal panels.
• Cracked or deteriorated skirting (the material around the home’s base).
• Water stains on walls or ceilings.
• Loose or corroded tie-downs.

Document each inspection with photos. These records can help prove maintenance in the event of a claim and may qualify you for premium discounts.

Install Storm-Resistant Upgrades

Insurance providers reward proactive homeowners. Consider these upgrades to reduce premiums and improve safety:

• Replace standard shingles with Class 4 impact-resistant roofing (rated to withstand 2-inch hail).
• Install storm shutters or impact-resistant windows.
• Upgrade to metal or reinforced skirting to prevent wind uplift.
• Install a sump pump or French drain if your lot has poor drainage.
• Use hurricane straps to secure your home to its foundation.

Many insurers offer up to 20% discounts for these improvements. Keep receipts and ask your agent to apply them to your policy.

Store Important Documents Digitally

In the event of a fire or flood, physical documents can be lost. Create a digital backup folder containing:

• Insurance policy documents
• Home inspection reports
• Receipts for major appliances and renovations
• Photos and videos of your home and belongings
• Titles and lot lease agreements

Store this folder in the cloud (Google Drive, Dropbox) and on an encrypted external drive. Share access with a trusted family member.

Understand Your Claims Process

After a covered loss, act quickly:

1. Document all damage with photos and videos before making temporary repairs.
2. Prevent further damage (e.g., cover broken windows with tarps).
3. Contact your insurer within 24–48 hours.
4. Keep receipts for all emergency repairs and temporary living expenses.
5. Do not sign any settlement checks until you’ve reviewed them with an independent adjuster if needed.

Fort Worth insurers are required by state law to respond to claims within 15 days. If delays occur, file a complaint with the Texas Department of Insurance.

Review and Update Annually

Life changes. You may buy new electronics, upgrade your kitchen, or add a shed. Your policy should reflect these changes. Schedule an annual review with your agent to:

• Adjust dwelling coverage for inflation.
• Add riders for expensive items (e.g., jewelry, firearms, musical instruments).
• Remove coverage for items you no longer own.
• Confirm your liability limits still meet park requirements.

Even small increases in coverage can prevent underinsurance during a major loss.

Tools and Resources

Texas Department of Insurance (TDI)

The TDI website (www.tdi.texas.gov) is your most reliable resource for licensed insurers, complaint histories, and consumer guides. Use their “Company Search” tool to verify an insurer’s standing and check for disciplinary actions. Their “Mobile Home Insurance Guide” is a free downloadable PDF with Texas-specific regulations.

National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)

If you’re in a flood-prone area, visit floodsmart.gov to check your home’s flood risk using your address. You can also find a local agent who sells NFIP policies. Remember: there’s a 30-day waiting period before coverage begins, so don’t wait until a storm is forecasted.

Home Value Estimators

Use these tools to estimate replacement cost:

• HomeAdvisor’s Home Value Calculator – Input square footage, age, and upgrades.
• Cost to Build Calculator (by Construction Cost Data) – Provides per-square-foot estimates for manufactured homes in Texas.
• Fort Worth Appraisal District – Search your property at www.twad.org to see assessed values (note: these are for tax purposes, not insurance).

Insurance Comparison Platforms

These sites allow you to compare mobile home quotes side-by-side:

• Insurify – Offers real-time quotes from multiple Texas carriers.
• Policygenius – Provides detailed breakdowns of coverage options and discounts.
• Bankrate – Compares rates by city, including Fort Worth-specific trends.

Local Resources

Fort Worth has several nonprofit and government-backed resources:

• Fort Worth Housing Solutions – Offers guidance for low-income residents seeking affordable insurance options.
• Tarrant County Emergency Management – Provides free storm preparedness kits and guides on securing your mobile home.
• Fort Worth Mobile Home Owners Association – A community group that shares tips on insurers, park regulations, and claims experiences.

Mobile Home Insurance Checklist

Download or print this checklist before applying:

• ☐ HUD tag number recorded
• ☐ Mobile home title or ownership document
• ☐ Lot lease agreement or land deed
• ☐ Photos of home’s exterior and interior
• ☐ List of personal property with estimated values
• ☐ Proof of recent maintenance (roof, plumbing, electrical)
• ☐ Park’s insurance requirements (in writing)
• ☐ Credit score and payment method ready

Real Examples

Example 1: The Hailstorm Claim

Marisol, a retired teacher, lives in a 2015 single-wide mobile home in the Northside neighborhood of Fort Worth. In May 2023, a severe hailstorm pummeled the area, leaving her roof with over 200 dime-to-golf-ball-sized dents. Her policy with Foremost included a 2% hail deductible ($1,800 on an $85,000 home) and full replacement cost coverage.

She took photos immediately, covered broken vents with tarps, and filed a claim the same day. Her adjuster, based in Arlington, arrived within 48 hours and confirmed the damage. The insurer approved $14,200 for a full roof replacement. Because she had installed Class 4 shingles three years earlier, she received a 15% premium discount. Without that upgrade, her deductible might have been $5,000, and her payout would have been lower.

Example 2: Flood Damage in a Non-Flood Zone

James and Linda bought a 1998 double-wide in the Westside Mobile Home Park. They didn’t purchase flood insurance because their lot was marked “low risk” on FEMA maps. In June 2022, a sudden downpour caused a drainage failure, flooding their home with 18 inches of water. Their standard policy denied the claim—flood damage was excluded.

Their personal belongings (furniture, electronics, clothing) were destroyed. They spent $12,000 out-of-pocket to replace everything and $8,000 on mold remediation. They later learned their park had experienced three flood-related claims in the prior five years. Now, they’ve purchased NFIP coverage and installed a sump pump.

Example 3: Underinsured Home

After inheriting her mother’s 1982 mobile home in the Southside area, Elena kept the same $50,000 policy—despite the home’s replacement value being $95,000. In January 2024, a fire from a faulty heater destroyed the home. Her insurer paid only $50,000, leaving her with a $45,000 gap. She had no savings and couldn’t afford to rebuild. She now rents a room while saving for a new home.

Her story underscores a critical truth: insuring for purchase price, not replacement cost, is a dangerous gamble.

Example 4: Park Requirements and Compliance

When David moved into the Heritage Mobile Home Park in Tarrant County, he was told he needed $300,000 liability coverage and windstorm protection. He initially bought a basic policy from a national carrier that didn’t meet the park’s standards. The park refused to issue his lot key until he provided proof of compliant coverage. He switched to Shelter Insurance, which offered a tailored policy meeting all requirements, including a windstorm endorsement and $100,000 personal property coverage. He now saves 10% by bundling with his car insurance.

FAQs

Can I get mobile home insurance if my home is over 25 years old?

Yes—but options are limited. Many insurers require homes to be built after 1976 and in good condition. Older homes may need upgrades (new roof, updated electrical, reinforced anchors) to qualify. Some specialty insurers, like Foremost or American Modern, offer policies for homes up to 35 years old with proper documentation.

Is mobile home insurance required by law in Fort Worth?

Texas state law does not mandate mobile home insurance. However, most mobile home parks, lenders, and financing companies require it as a condition of occupancy or loan approval. Even if not legally required, it’s financially essential.

Does mobile home insurance cover damage from tornadoes?

Yes, if your policy includes windstorm coverage—which most do in North Texas. Tornado damage is typically covered under dwelling and personal property protection. However, some policies have higher deductibles for wind events. Always confirm your wind/hail deductible is reasonable.

Can I get coverage if I live in a mobile home park?

Absolutely. In fact, most mobile home insurance policies are designed for residents of manufactured home parks. Your policy covers the home and belongings; the park owner’s insurance covers the land and common areas.

How much does mobile home insurance cost in Fort Worth?

Prices vary based on home value, age, location, and coverage. On average, Fort Worth residents pay $800–$1,600 annually for a standard policy with $100,000 dwelling coverage. Older homes or those in high-risk zones may cost $2,000+. Discounts can reduce this by 15–30%.

What if I can’t afford insurance?

If you’re on a fixed income or low budget, contact Fort Worth Housing Solutions or the Texas Department of Insurance. Some nonprofit organizations offer assistance programs or subsidized coverage. Never go uninsured—many parks will evict residents without proof of coverage.

Do I need separate insurance for my shed or garage?

If it’s attached to your mobile home, it’s covered under dwelling protection. Detached structures (like sheds, toolhouses, or carports) are typically covered under “other structures” coverage, usually up to 10% of your dwelling limit. If you have a large detached garage, consider increasing this limit.

Can I cancel my policy anytime?

Yes, but you may owe a cancellation fee or lose prorated premiums. Most insurers allow cancellation with 30 days’ notice. Always secure new coverage before canceling an existing policy to avoid gaps.

What’s the difference between mobile home and manufactured home insurance?

There is no practical difference. “Mobile home” typically refers to units built before 1976, while “manufactured home” refers to those built after HUD standards were implemented. Most insurers use the terms interchangeably today.

How long does it take to get approved?

With complete documentation, approval can take 24–72 hours. Online applications with digital documents are fastest. If your home requires an inspection, the process may take up to a week.

Conclusion

Getting mobile home insurance in Fort Worth isn’t just about checking a box—it’s about protecting your largest investment and your family’s safety. With extreme weather, rising repair costs, and strict park requirements, choosing the right policy demands research, preparation, and vigilance. By understanding your home’s value, securing necessary endorsements, comparing local providers, and maintaining your property, you can obtain comprehensive, affordable coverage that stands up to North Texas’s toughest conditions.

Don’t wait for a storm to hit before you act. Start today by gathering your documents, checking your HUD tag, and requesting quotes from at least three insurers. Use the tools and resources outlined here to make informed decisions. Remember: the goal isn’t just to find the cheapest policy—it’s to find the right policy. One that covers your home, your belongings, and your future. In Fort Worth, where the sky can change in minutes, preparedness isn’t optional. It’s the foundation of security.