First and foremost, let's take a closer look at the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association. Established to provide insurance coverage to homeowners and businesses in designated catastrophe areas, TWIA offers an essential lifeline to those who may struggle to find coverage through the private market due to the risk of catastrophic hurricanes. In essence, TWIA serves as the insurer of last resort for those residing along the Texas coast.
To be eligible for TWIA insurance, property owners must adhere to the Texas Insurance Code Chapter 2210, which mandates that properties must meet certain windstorm building code requirements. Failure to comply with these regulations may result in a property being deemed uninsurable and ineligible for coverage.
To obtain a Windstorm Certificate of Compliance, property owners must undergo a rigorous inspection process. This inspection is crucial as it ensures that your property is constructed or retrofitted to withstand the high winds and hail storms that often plague the Texas coast. As of June 1, 2020, the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) is responsible for issuing all Certificates of Compliance, with two types available: the WPI-8 for ongoing construction and the WPI-8-E for completed construction.
There are some exceptions to the TWIA eligibility requirement, such as properties built between 1988 and June 19, 2009, which may still be eligible for TWIA coverage. Additionally, properties insured in the private market after June 19, 2009, that are non-renewed or cancelled may also be eligible for TWIA coverage. However, it is always advisable to consult with your insurance agent to discuss your specific situation and the most suitable insurance options.
TDI's Windstorm Inspection Program plays a pivotal role in ensuring compliance with windstorm building codes. Property owners can engage the services of a TDI-appointed engineer or inspector to conduct the necessary inspections and certifications. This proactive approach to property protection not only safeguards your investment but also helps to mitigate potential damages and losses in the event of a severe storm.
For those seeking Certificates of Compliance issued by TWIA (WPI-8-C) from January 1, 2017, to May 31, 2020, a lookup tool is available on the TWIA and TDI websites. This tool is an invaluable resource for property owners looking to verify their compliance status or gather additional information about their certification history.
