When a Texas City Roof Repair May Need Windstorm Certification

If your property is insured through the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA), a new roof or a storm damage repair covering a significant portion of your roof generally needs a Windstorm Certificate of Compliance. Commonly called a WPI-8. Confirming the work meets windstorm building code requirements. This page explains the basics in plain language; always confirm your specific situation with TDI or TWIA directly.

This is general information, not legal or insurance advice. Last reviewed and sourced from official TDI and TWIA guidance: August 2026.

WPI-8, WPI-8-E, and WPI-8-C: What’s the Difference?

• WPI-8: A Certificate of Compliance issued by the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) for new and ongoing improvements. Meaning construction that hasn’t started or hasn’t finished yet.
• WPI-8-E: A Certificate of Compliance issued by TDI for completed improvements. TDI began accepting applications for these on June 1, 2020.
• WPI-8-C: A Certificate of Compliance issued by TWIA (not TDI) for completed improvements. TWIA accepted applications for these from January 1, 2017 to May 31, 2020, so this type applies only to older projects.

As of June 1, 2020, all Certificates of Compliance are issued by TDI as part of its Windstorm Inspection Program, not by TWIA directly.

Why This Can Matter for TWIA Eligibility

Under the Texas Insurance Code (Chapter 2210), a property generally must be certified as meeting windstorm building code requirements before it’s eligible for a TWIA policy. Without a Certificate of Compliance, TWIA lacks evidence the structure meets applicable codes, and the property may be considered ineligible for TWIA coverage.

Examples of Work That Typically Needs Certification

• New structures
• Building additions or enlargements
• Windows, entry doors, and garage doors
• Patio covers and decks
• Replacing a roof or repairing a significant portion of a roof
• Re-siding a significant portion of an exterior wall

Examples of Work That Typically Doesn’t Need Certification

• Painting, carpeting, and refinishing work
• Plumbing and electrical repairs
• Fence repair
• Repair or replacement of gutters
• Temporary repairs after a storm, such as emergency tarping

A full list of exempt improvements is available directly from TDI’s windstorm inspection exemptions page. Because the exact scope of your project determines whether certification is needed, confirm with TDI or TWIA before assuming either way.

Two Exceptions Worth Knowing

Per the Texas Insurance Code, residential properties built between 1988 and June 18, 2009 that aren’t certified may still be eligible for TWIA coverage, subject to a 15% surcharge on top of the policy premium. Separately, residential properties insured on or after June 19, 2009 by a private insurer that are non-renewed or cancelled while missing a required WPI-8 may also be eligible for TWIA coverage. These are general rules. Confirm your specific eligibility with TWIA.

How to Verify or Look Up a Certificate

Most Windstorm Certificates of Compliance can be looked up through TDI’s online database. Older WPI-8-C certificates issued by TWIA between 2017 and 2020 can be requested through TWIA’s certificate lookup tool instead, since TDI’s database doesn’t include those.

Questions to Ask Your Provider

• Does this repair scope require a Windstorm Certificate of Compliance?
• Who will submit the certification paperwork, and when?
• Can I get a copy of the certificate once it’s issued?

RoofLeakLocal is a referral service and doesn’t issue certificates or perform inspections. Your matched provider can discuss certification requirements for your specific project, and TDI’s Windstorm Inspection Program (tdi.texas.gov/wind, (800) 248-6032) is the official source for confirmation.

Related Services

If you’re dealing with storm damage, see storm and wind damage repair. For temporary protection while you sort out certification, see emergency roof tarping.

WPI-8 FAQs

Do I need a WPI-8 for a small shingle repair?

It depends on the scope, TDI’s guidance distinguishes between minor repairs and repairing “a significant portion” of a roof. A provider or TDI directly can help determine which category your specific repair falls into.

Does emergency tarping need a WPI-8?

No. Temporary repairs after a storm, including emergency tarping, are generally exempt from certification requirements. The permanent repair that follows may need one, depending on scope.

Who issues the certificate, TDI or TWIA?

As of June 1, 2020, TDI issues all Certificates of Compliance through its Windstorm Inspection Program. TWIA previously issued a version of this certificate (WPI-8-C) only between 2017 and 2020.

Can RoofLeakLocal confirm whether my project needs certification?

We’re a referral service and can’t make that determination for you. TDI’s Windstorm Inspection Program and your insurer are the authoritative sources. Your matched provider can also discuss what’s typically required for similar projects.

Windstorm certification and building permits are separate requirements. See our guide on whether your roof repair needs a permit in Texas City.