Coastal structures need a windstorm certificate to get TWIA coverage

The Texas Department of Insurance runs a windstorm inspection program for coastal counties. Inspectors check that a structure meets the required building codes as it is being built. If it passes, the owner gets a WPI-8 certificate.

If you buy an older home on Padre Island or near the coast and it has no WPI-8 certificate, getting TWIA coverage can be difficult or impossible. Before buying a coastal property, ask if the WPI-8 certificate exists and is on file with TDI.