ALFA Engineering, LLC
Texas Licensed Professional Engineering Firm · Firm No. F-29522
WPI-8 Windstorm Inspections for Ongoing Construction
WPI-8 certification-process support for qualifying new construction, additions, re-roofing, and exterior envelope projects in designated Texas coastal catastrophe areas. Inspections must be arranged before structural work is concealed.
What WPI-8 Means
ALFA Engineering, LLC is a Texas-licensed professional engineering firm providing windstorm engineering, TDI inspection services, and WPI-8 certification-process support for qualifying residential and commercial projects in designated Texas coastal areas. For qualifying ongoing projects, ALFA Engineering can evaluate the project scope, help determine the applicable TDI inspection path, coordinate required engineering documentation, and provide authorized inspection services only where the assigned engineer holds the appointment required for that inspection. TDI reviews the submitted documentation and issues the Certificate of Compliance.
A WPI-8 is a Certificate of Compliance issued by the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) after applicable windstorm inspection and documentation requirements are completed and accepted for qualifying structures in designated catastrophe areas. It is generally required for windstorm insurance coverage through the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA).
WPI-8 applies to qualifying new or ongoing construction that is inspected during the work. The inspection must occur at required construction stages while structural components, connections, and fastening remain visible and accessible. Once work is concealed by finishes, roofing, or cladding, it may not be possible to inspect without removal.
ALFA Engineering provides eligible inspection and engineering services and prepares or submits required documentation when included in the project scope. TDI issues the WPI-8 certificate — ALFA Engineering does not issue the certificate. Eligibility and certification are subject to TDI review and applicable requirements.
Critical: Arrange Inspection Before Concealment
Contact ALFA Engineering before concealing structural connections, roof components, framing, fastening, or other work that may require inspection. Once construction is concealed, it may require removal of finishes, additional evaluation, or a different process such as WPI-8E for completed construction.
Projects That May Need WPI-8
WPI-8 inspections apply to qualifying construction in designated catastrophe areas. Applicability depends on the property location, project type, and scope of work.
New Construction
Single-family homes and multi-family buildings in designated catastrophe areas requiring WPI-8 inspection during construction.
Commercial Buildings
New commercial structures in designated coastal areas where windstorm certification is required for insurance.
Additions & Alterations
Structural additions, second stories, and alterations that modify the wind-resisting structural system.
Re-Roofing Projects
Roof replacements on structures in designated areas where the roof system is part of the wind-resisting envelope.
Windows, Doors & Siding
Exterior opening protection and cladding installations that require windstorm inspection for code compliance.
Patio Covers & Carports
Attached patio covers, carports, and similar structures in designated catastrophe areas.
When Inspections Occur During Construction
WPI-8 inspections are performed at required construction stages while structural work remains visible. The specific stages depend on the project type and scope.
Foundation & Framing
Inspection of structural connections, framing, and anchorage before concealment by finishes.
Roof Structural Assembly
Inspection of roof framing, sheathing, fastening, and connections before the roof covering is installed.
Exterior Envelope
Inspection of wall sheathing, openings, and exterior coverings before siding or cladding is installed.
Final Documentation
Preparation and submission of inspection documentation to TDI for WPI-8 certificate review.
Who Issues the WPI-8 Certificate
The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) reviews the applicable inspection and engineering documentation and issues the WPI-8 Certificate of Compliance when its requirements are satisfied. ALFA Engineering is a Texas-licensed professional engineering firm that provides eligible inspection and engineering services and supports qualifying projects through the applicable TDI certification process.
ALFA Engineering does not issue the WPI-8 certificate, does not guarantee certification, and does not represent that every project will qualify. Eligibility and certification are subject to TDI review and applicable requirements.
Where WPI-8 Applies
WPI-8 inspections apply to qualifying structures in the 14 Texas coastal counties designated by TDI as first-tier catastrophe areas: Aransas, Brazoria, Calhoun, Cameron, Chambers, Galveston, Jefferson, Kenedy, Kleberg, Matagorda, Nueces, Refugio, San Patricio, and Willacy. Designated portions of Harris County east of State Highway 146 also qualify.
Information Needed to Review Your Project
WPI-8 Certification Questions
What is a WPI-8 certificate?
A WPI-8 is a Certificate of Compliance issued by the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) after applicable windstorm inspection and documentation requirements are completed and accepted. It is generally required for windstorm insurance coverage through the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA) for qualifying structures in designated catastrophe areas.
When should I arrange a WPI-8 inspection?
Contact a windstorm inspector before construction begins or before structural components and connections are concealed. Required work must remain visible for inspection at the required stages. Once work is concealed, it may not be possible to inspect without removal of finishes.
What is the difference between WPI-8 and WPI-8E?
WPI-8 relates to qualifying new or ongoing construction that is inspected during the work. WPI-8E relates to completed construction that was not inspected during the work. The processes, requirements, and supporting documentation differ. See our WPI-8E page for details on completed-construction certification.
Does ALFA Engineering issue the WPI-8 certificate?
No. TDI issues the WPI-8 Certificate of Compliance. ALFA Engineering provides eligible inspection and engineering services and prepares or submits required documentation when included in the project scope. Eligibility and certification are subject to TDI review and applicable requirements.
What happens if construction is already concealed?
Concealed construction may require additional evaluation, removal of finishes, or a different process such as WPI-8E for completed construction. Concealed work that cannot be verified may not qualify for the same inspection process.
Which areas require WPI-8 inspections?
WPI-8 inspections apply to qualifying structures in the 14 Texas coastal counties designated by TDI as first-tier catastrophe areas, plus designated portions of Harris County east of State Highway 146. Applicability depends on the property address and county. Use our ALFAP TX tool to check your address.
Already completed construction? Learn about WPI-8E certification for completed construction — the process, requirements, and limitations for after-the-fact windstorm certification.
Request a WPI-8 Inspection Review
Send the project information below. ALFA Engineering will review the request and contact you regarding availability, required information, and the appropriate next step.
Check TDI windstorm applicability at your address
Find out whether your Texas property is in the TDI designated windstorm area before scheduling a WPI-8 inspection.