How can I determine if my home or roof is certified?
If your home was constructed after 1988, or if you have had your roof replaced and would like to determine if the certification (WPI-8) is available, the information can be found on the Texas Department of Insurance website (www.tdi.state.tx.us). Under the search column on the left side, select “Windstorm Certificates”, then type in your address and county. If your home is certified, it will be reflected and you can print your certificate.
How would the Association know if my roof has been changed?
The TWIA contracts independent inspectors to inspect the majority of the homes submitted for coverage. A trained inspector can identify a roof that is less than 18 years old (2007 – 1988 = 19 years). Coverage will be terminated unless the appropriate certification is obtained by an approved inspector.
Can any home inspector complete the certification requirements?
No. The inspector has to be approved by the Texas Department of Insurance. A list of independent approved engineers is available on the TDI website.
Can I still obtain coverage through the TWIA if I do not have a WPI-8?
If your home was built after 1988, was altered, or the roof was replaced, and the changes were not certified, you may be eligible for the waiver program. The waiver program, which was initiated in 2006, allows homeowners that do not have a required WPI-8 and have wind coverage in their existing homeowner’s policy that is now being excluded, to obtain coverage. Effective March 1, 2007, the surcharge for this waiver will increase to 10%.
Are any providers offering a complete package?
Preferred carriers in our area are limiting or excluding this coverage in their standard homeowner’s policy. In addition it has been noted that several carriers are excluding this protection when an existing policy is scheduled to renew, and rewriting the wind, hail and hurricane protection in the TWIA.
We wish to stress the importance of obtaining a WPI-8 certificate should you have your roof replaced or significantly repair or alter your home.
Craig Slater is a FARMERS Insurance agent in Pearland. He can be contacted at (281) 997-7575.
For all of your Pearland Real Estate needs, contact Danny Frank at 713-569-8102 or at www.danfrankrealty.com