What is a WPI-8 and why do policyholders need one?
A WPI-8 is a building code certificate of compliance that is issued by the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI). It certifies that a structure has been erected, altered and/or repaired in accordance with building construction requirements for windstorm coverage by TWIA as outlined in Section 6A, Article 21.49 of the Texas Insurance Code. When a policyholder receives the WPI-8 certificate, it should be sent to the agent or TWIA to verify that the home or business has been built or repaired properly and is therefore “insurable” with TWIA. For example, if a policyholder has a loss on a roof and TWIA pays to replace the roof, the policyholder is required to contact TDI and make certain they inspect and certify the roof as it is being replaced. (See “How do policyholders obtain a WPI-8?” below). This is just one example of the need for a WPI-8. On commercial buildings, policyholders may be required to have a registered engineer make the inspection to certify the repairs. Additional informati