TDI Windstorm Inspection and WPI-8 Certification Guide
Everything you need to know about TDI windstorm inspections, WPI-8 certificates, and windstorm insurance compliance for Texas coastal properties.
Key Takeaways
- WPI-8 certificates are required for windstorm insurance through TWIA in coastal counties
- TDI inspections must be performed at specific construction milestones
- Construction must meet the International Residential Code windstorm provisions
- Retroactive WPI-8E certificates are available for existing structures
TDI Windstorm Inspection and WPI-8 Certification
If your property is in a Texas coastal county, windstorm inspection and WPI-8 certification are essential for obtaining windstorm insurance.
What Is the TDI Windstorm Program?
The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) manages the windstorm inspection program to verify that buildings in coastal counties are constructed to resist hurricane-force winds. Compliance is required for windstorm and hail insurance through the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA).
Designated Coastal Counties (14)
Aransas, Brazoria, Calhoun, Cameron, Chambers, Galveston, Harris, Jefferson, Kenedy, Kleberg, Matagorda, Nueces, Refugio, and San Patricio.
WPI-8 Certificate Types
- WPI-8: For new construction — confirms the building meets windstorm standards
- WPI-8E: For existing structures — requires inspection and possible retrofitting
Required Inspection Milestones
- Foundation and Framing Inspection: After framing is complete, before exterior sheathing
- Roof Decking Inspection: After roof decking and nail patterns, before underlayment
- Building Enclosure Inspection: After all exterior openings installed
- Final Inspection: After construction is complete
Critical: Missing an inspection milestone may prevent you from obtaining a WPI-8 certificate.
Key Construction Features
- Roof-to-Wall Connections: Hurricane straps or clips at every rafter
- Wall-to-Foundation Connections: Proper anchor bolts and hold-downs
- Opening Protection: Impact-resistant windows or approved shutters
- Roof Decking: Proper thickness and nailing pattern
- Garage Doors: Wind-rated garage doors with proper bracing
Design Wind Speeds
- Inland coastal counties: 140-150 mph
- Immediate coast: 150-160+ mph
- Barrier islands: 160+ mph
TWIA Insurance
The Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA) is the insurer of last resort for windstorm and hail coverage in coastal areas. A WPI-8 certificate is required to obtain or maintain TWIA coverage.
Retroactive Certification (WPI-8E)
For existing buildings without a WPI-8 certificate, you may apply for WPI-8E which requires a comprehensive inspection and may require retrofitting to meet current standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
A WPI-8 certificate is issued by the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) after a windstorm inspection confirms that a building in a designated coastal county meets windstorm-resistant construction standards. It is required to obtain windstorm and hail insurance through the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA).
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