Do you find yourself questioning, "Do I need a WDO termite inspection?" Maybe. What is a WDO inspection? WDO means "wood-destroying organisms." In other words, a WDO inspection's primary goal is to look out for insects and non-insect organisms that cause wreckage to wood. The non-insect creatures include fungi that feed on and destroy wooden materials. A WDO inspector's job is to look for proof of these organisms' presence and then give a report about his or her findings.
The dream of getting a house is not an easy one. If it is your first time as a homebuyer, the whole transaction will require a lot of paperwork. To ensure that your investment in a property is worth it (implying that the property will appreciate rather than depreciate), the homeowner's loan granter will require various types of inspections.
These inspections will confirm whether a property is solid and reliable. Your loan granter will need a WDO inspection.
What Does a WDO Inspection Cover?
A WDO (Wood-Destroying Organism) Inspection in Florida covers several key areas to ensure that homes or buildings are free from damage or infestations caused by wood-destroying organisms. The inspection identifies current infestations, damage, and conditions conducive to future infestations. Here’s what it generally includes:
1. Termites
Subterranean Termites: These termites live in the soil and build mud tubes to reach wood above ground. The inspection looks for mud tubes, damaged wood, and signs of active infestations.
Drywood Termites: Unlike subterranean termites, drywood termites live in wood and do not require contact with soil. The inspector checks for termite pellets, damaged wood, and swarms.
2. Wood Decay Fungi (Rot)
Inspectors check for wood decay caused by fungi that thrive in damp, moist environments. This often occurs in areas with water damage or improper ventilation.
These beetles infest hardwood and lay eggs, leading to larvae that bore through the wood. Inspectors look for tiny holes and fine wood powder (frass) as indicators of powderpost beetle activity.
4. Old House Borers
Similar to powderpost beetles, old house borers can damage structural wood. The inspection will include signs like larvae galleries and the presence of adult borers.
5. Conducive Conditions
Inspectors assess conditions that could lead to infestations, such as:
Excessive moisture or water leaks
Wood-to-soil contact (increasing the risk of subterranean termites)
Poor ventilation (which could lead to moisture issues)
Cracks or gaps in foundations or walls
6. Previous Treatments
The inspection may also verify whether the property has been previously treated for WDOs and whether these treatments have been effective or need to be updated.
Reporting
After the inspection, a WDO report is issued. This report outlines the findings, including:
Evidence of active or previous infestations
Damage caused by WDOs
Recommendations for treatment or repair
In Florida, WDO inspections are often required during real estate transactions to ensure the property is structurally sound and free of infestations before it changes ownership. The inspector must be licensed and certified to conduct these inspections according to state regulations.
Are you curious about what an interior and exterior WDO inspection involve? The interior and exterior WDO inspection of the home will cover common areas like:
Door and windows of a structure
Interior walls
Baseboard and trimming
Wood floorboards and layouts on the main floor, basement, and crawl space locations such as attics and below the home.
Garage, pavilion, fence, and any other construction
Cabinets
Dormers and skylight openings
Gutters and drainpipe / conducive condition locations.
WDO vs. Termite Inspection
Sometimes a WDO inspection is referred to as a termite inspection. Nonetheless, they are not the same. You must recognize the difference before going ahead to acquire a pest control agent's services. Some pest control companies render specific termite inspection services to figure out termite-related damages inflicted by both the eastern subterranean termite / Formosan termite and dry wood termite species. However, these pest control officials do not do an extensive and comprehensive inspection.
On the other hand, a WDO inspection covers beyond pointers for the presence of termites and termite damage. It goes ahead to include an assessment for the existence of any wood-destroying insects. The signs of wood-damaging organisms include:
Wood deterioration as a result of dry rot and water damage from moisture-related concerns
Wood-damaging fungi and wood decay fungi
Carpenter ants (in some states)
Species of wood-boring beetles
Other related pests and fungi that feed on wood and cause damage to the property.
Is a WDO Part of a Home Inspection?
Not at all. A WDO inspection is not often included in a home inspection unless the home inspection agent mainly makes this combination known. Many home inspectors do not have a license to operate as pest control agents. Unauthorized home inspectors cannot present a valid WDO inspection report. In simpler terms, the main difference between a home inspection and a WDO inspection include the following:
Home inspectors examine electrical fittings, HVAC, roofing, and plumbing systems. Top home inspectors are prudent and enterprising. They inspect appliances and look for cracks underneath the sink.
A WDO inspection is an examination done by an authorized pest control company. They assess and look out for indications of termites as well as other wood-destroying organisms. A certified WDO inspector recognizes the signs of insects to look out for, such as subterranean termites. They look for termite droppings as well as mud tubes that are homes to termites and carpenter ants. A Pest control company can also make the proper recommendations for the need for termite treatment, or tent fumigation. The same termite treatment company can help educate you on how to prepare for tent fumigation, or other recommended termite treatment.
A WDO inspector takes it further and offers a more comprehensive service than the regular home inspector. They look for pointers or pre-existing damage and signs of initial treatments. Indications of previous termite treatment reveal that there may be a long-established issue.
In Florida, the WDO pest inspection terms are found in Florida Law Chapter 482.226 and Chapter 5E-14.142(2)(c) through the Florida Department of Agriculture.
What Are Wood Destroying Organisms?
As we previously pointed out, wood-destroying organisms include insects and non-insects (plant-like) that try to damage or degrade buildings' wooden components. Wood-destroying insects include the prevalent ones like subterranean termites, dry wood termites, wood-boring beetles, powderpost beetles, carpenter bees, swarmers, carpenter ants (in some states), and many others.
A WDO will generally examine holes and burrows, as well as main floors, and comb the property's attic and other visible locations. They also inspect the environment around the home for any hint or evidence of wood-destroying organisms. The WDO specialists will scrutinize things like dead trees or poking tree branches. Dead trees and protruding branches can be a source of food or means of transport for these organisms.
What is WDO Damage?
WDO damages are any decline or decay of wood inside or outside the home. The house's layout, make-up, and components may have WDO damages. Regardless of the name, the havoc caused by WDO goes beyond just wooden structural materials. The damages may include stuff like wiring to and from HVAC system devices. It encompasses breakage resulting from insects, plant utilization, or depletion of cellulose materials or other structural components.
WDO (Wood-Destroying Organism) Damage refers to the deterioration, weakening, or destruction of wood and wood-based materials caused by organisms that feed on or inhabit wood. These organisms include termites, wood-decay fungi, beetles, and other pests that compromise a home's or building's structural integrity. WDO damage can be found in various parts of a structure, including foundations, walls, flooring, ceilings, and wood-based furnishings. Here’s a breakdown of the most common forms of WDO damage:
1. Termite Damage
Subterranean Termites: These termites build mud tubes to reach wood from the soil and can cause significant damage by hollowing out structural timbers. They often remain undetected until severe damage has occurred.
Drywood Termites burrow directly into dry wood and can weaken furniture, walls, and structural beams from the inside out. Damage from drywood termites typically appears as hollowed-out wood with a gritty texture inside.
2. Wood-Decaying Fungi (Rot)
Brown Rot: This fungus breaks down the cellulose in wood, causing it to shrink, darken, and become brittle. Affected wood can crumble easily and is often called "dry rot."
White Rot: White rot fungi break down cellulose and lignin in wood, leaving it soft and spongy with a whitish appearance.
Soft Rot: This type of decay generally affects wood in wet conditions. The slow damage leads to a weakened, soft structure that can lose its load-bearing ability.
3. Powderpost Beetle Damage
Powderpost beetles lay eggs in wood, and when the larvae hatch, they bore tiny holes through the wood, creating fine, powdery wood dust (frass). Over time, this can cause the wood to weaken, and structures such as floorboards, beams, or furniture may become unstable.
4. Old House Borer Damage
Old house borers primarily attack softwoods like pine. The larvae bore into the wood, creating tunnels or galleries, which can lead to visible surface damage such as blistering or cracking of the wood. The interior of the wood may become hollow or riddled with tunnels.
5. Conditions Leading to Structural Damage
Even if no active infestation is present, WDO damage can result from conditions that encourage the growth or entry of wood-destroying organisms. This includes:
Moisture Issues: Excess moisture due to leaks or poor ventilation can lead to wood rot and fungi growth.
Wood-to-Soil Contact: This provides easy access for termites to enter the wood, particularly in foundations and support beams.
Consequences of WDO Damage
Weakened Structural Integrity: Damage from WDOs can lead to serious structural problems, including sagging floors, weakened walls, and compromised roof supports.
Costly Repairs: If left untreated, WDO damage can result in expensive repair bills, especially if it affects the building's load-bearing components.
Decreased Property Value: Homes or buildings with significant WDO damage may see a drop in market value due to the need for repairs or pest control treatments.
WDO damage can be difficult to detect in its early stages, as it often occurs inside the wood where it’s not immediately visible. Regular inspections by licensed professionals are essential to identify and address WDO issues before they lead to significant damage.
Is a WDO Included in my Home Inspection?
No, it is not included. Although a WDO inspection is not often included in a home inspection, it only does if the home inspection agent mainly makes this combination known. A large number of home inspectors do not have the permit to operate as a pest control agent. Unauthorized home inspectors cannot present a valid WDO inspection report. In a more straightforward sense, the significant difference between a home inspection and a WDO inspection include the following:
Home inspectors look into electrical fittings, HVAC, roofing, and plumbing systems. Top home inspectors are prudent and enterprising. They evaluate appliances and examine for cracks underneath the sink.
A WDO inspection is an evaluation done by an authorized pest control organization. They check for indications of termites and other wood-destroying organisms. A certified WDO inspector recognizes the signs of insects to look out for, such as subterranean termites. They look for termite droppings as well as mud tubes that are homes to termites and carpenter ants.
A WDO inspector takes it further and offers an all-inclusive service than the conventional home inspector. They look for pointers or pre-existing damage and signs of initial treatments. Indications of previous termite treatment reveal that there may be a long-established issue.
In Florida, the WDO pest inspection terms are established in Florida Law Chapter 482.226 and Chapter 5E-14.142(2)(c) through the Florida Department of Agriculture.
Signs of WDO Damage
Signs of WDO (Wood-Destroying Organism) Damage can vary depending on the type of organism causing the damage. These signs may be subtle at first but can become more evident as the damage progresses. Early detection is critical to preventing further destruction and costly repairs. Here are some common indicators to look for:
1. Termite Damage Signs
Mud Tubes: Subterranean termites build mud tubes to travel between their nests and wood. These pencil-thin tunnels are often found on walls, foundations, or crawl spaces.
Hollowed or Damaged Wood: Wood that sounds hollow when tapped or has visible channels and galleries inside may be infested with termites.
Frass: Drywood termites produce small, pellet-like droppings (frass) that can accumulate in piles around infested areas.
Discarded Wings: Swarming termites (alates) shed their wings when establishing a new colony. Piles of discarded wings near windowsills or doorways may indicate a nearby termite infestation.
Buckling Wood or Blistering Paint: Termite damage can cause wood to warp or buckle, and paint may blister due to moisture build-up behind the surface.
2. Wood-Decaying Fungi (Rot) Signs
Soft or Spongy Wood: Wood affected by fungi often becomes soft and may crumble easily when touched, a sign of advanced rot.
Discoloration: Wood may darken or turn a different color, such as brown or white, depending on the type of rot (brown rot or white rot).
Musty Odor: Wood rot may be accompanied by a damp, musty smell, particularly in areas with poor ventilation or water leaks.
Cracking or Splitting: As wood rot progresses, it can cause cracking or splitting along the wood grain.
3. Powderpost Beetle Damage Signs
Tiny Holes in Wood: Powderpost beetles create small, round exit holes in wood surfaces, typically about 1/16 to 1/8 inch in diameter.
Fine Powder (Frass): Fine, powdery wood dust (frass) beneath or near holes is a key sign of powderpost beetle activity.
Weak or Splintering Wood: Infested wood may become brittle and weak, making it prone to splintering.
4. Old House Borer Damage Signs
Blistered or Bumpy Wood: Infestations by old house borers may cause wood to blister or bulge. Surface bumps can indicate larvae tunneling beneath the surface.
Tunnels or Galleries: Inside affected wood, galleries or tunnels may be visible, sometimes filled with powdery debris.
Noisy Wood: Old house borer larvae can sometimes be heard chewing on wood, producing a faint clicking or rustling sound.
5. General Signs of WDO Damage
Sagging Floors or Ceilings: Extensive WDO damage can compromise the structural integrity of the building, leading to sagging or uneven floors and ceilings.
Cracked or Distorted Walls: Structural damage from WDOs may cause walls to crack, bulge, or become uneven.
Excessive Moisture: Wood-destroying organisms often thrive in moist environments, so signs of water leaks, condensation, or mold growth may indicate favorable conditions for WDO damage.
Visible Fungal Growth: In areas of high moisture, you might see visible mold or fungal growth, which can indicate wood decay and rot.
Peeling or Bubbling Paint: Moisture trapped behind wood due to WDO damage can cause paint to peel, bubble, or crack. If you notice any of these signs, it's essential to have a professional inspection performed by a licensed WDO inspector. Early identification and treatment can prevent further damage and protect the structural integrity of your property. Regular inspections are especially important in regions like Florida, where termites and high humidity create ideal conditions for WDO damage.
What is the Cost of WDO Inspection?
A complete WDO inspection costs between $95 to $250. The price is dependent on factors like the province or region, house size, and condition of the property. When the WDO inspection has been completed, you will be issued a state-mandated detailed report or a termite certification letter for the result. Contact us, and a qualified office associate will confirm a proper quote.
WDO Inspection Company Imperial Pest Prevention
Our WDO inspection crew can assist you with further information as regards to purchasing a WDO-free home. They can also provide answers to other termite-related questions you may want to ask.
We are optimistic this article helps you answer what a home buyer should know concerning WDO damage and WDO inspection. Similarly, the home sellers can also benefit from this knowledge.
On October 1, 2024, Imperial Pest Prevention updated its blog post titled "What is a WDO Inspection?" to ensure the information reflects the latest industry standards, regulations, and practices in Florida. This update is crucial for maintaining the accuracy of content that serves both homeowners and real estate professionals, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections for wood-destroying organisms (WDOs).
Reasons for Updating the Blog Post
Regulatory Changes: Florida has stringent laws governing WDO inspections, and updates to state regulations or licensing requirements necessitate content revisions. Ensuring the blog post complies with any new state or local mandates is essential to provide readers with up-to-date, compliant information.
New Inspection Techniques and Tools: Advances in technology, such as improved thermal imaging or moisture detection equipment, have enhanced the accuracy of WDO inspections. Updating the post highlights the use of these modern tools, offering readers confidence in Imperial Pest Prevention's cutting-edge methods.
Evolving Pest Threats: Over time, pest behaviors and infestations can shift due to environmental changes, urbanization, and climate factors. The blog update can reflect any new trends, such as increased termite activity or emerging wood-decaying fungi in the region, informing homeowners of current risks.
Client Education: Homeowners and real estate agents may need more clarity about what a WDO inspection entails, what organisms are covered, and why these inspections are critical. By refreshing the content, Imperial Pest Prevention can better educate clients on the process, improving transparency and customer confidence.
Reflecting Company Expertise: By continuously improving and updating blog content, Imperial Pest Prevention reinforces its reputation as a trusted authority in pest control. Highlighting the team's expertise, including contributions from licensed inspectors and certified professionals, helps build client trust and showcases the company's commitment to high-quality service.
This blog update ensures that Imperial Pest Prevention remains the go-to resource for accurate and reliable information on WDO inspections in Florida.