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TExAS DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE <br />Public Information Office 512/463-6425 <br />Fax 512/475-2025 <br />Questions and Answers on Catpool <br /> <br />Question: What is Catpool? <br />December 14,1994 <br />La Porte, Texas <br />Answer: The Texas Catastrophe Property Insurance Association provides windstorm <br />and hail coverage on qualified property when coastal residents cannot find it <br />through the regular market. Catpool was created by the Texas legislature in <br />1971 and is funded by all property insurers authorized to do business in Texas. <br />Catpool does not include flood insurance, which is only available under a <br />federal insurance program. <br />Question: Who is presently covered by the Catpool? <br />Answer: The Catpool covers 14 Gulf Coast counties for total liabilities of $7.2 billion <br />and 60,000 policies. <br />Question: Has the Catpool ever been expanded and who makes the decision? <br />Answer: Since its creation the Catpool has never been expanded. The Texas Insurance <br />Commissioner makes the decision on expansion. <br />Question: If the Catpool is expanded would it cover certain communities or all of Harris <br />County? <br />Answer: State law allows the Insurance Commissioner to add a city or county to the <br />Catpool if residents are having trouble obtaining coverage. Today's hearing is <br />restricted to the possible expansion of the Catpool for only the nine <br />communities that have been mentioned. <br />Question: If allowed how do I apply for Catpool coverage? <br />Answer: Every licensed agent in Texas can offer Catpool coverage. <br />Question: Is Catpool coverage more or less expensive than what is available on the <br />regular market? <br /> <br />Answer: The Catpool coverage is 25% above the benchmark. <br />