WDO inspections, also known as termite inspections, are often required by lending institutions before the mortgage insurance agent will approve the loan. In Florida, a WDO inspection isn’t required if you buy your home with cash, but still strongly recommended.
Florida is highly subject to termite infestations, as demonstrated by the US Forest Service’s map on the bottom right side of this slide
According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, “Termite inspections are required on existing properties
Wood-decaying fungi infest and consume moist wood, causing it to rot. The most common reason why your wood got infested by wood-decay fungi is its excessive moisture since most fungi are attracted to it. When your wood is constantly exposed to moisture and water, it can be easily vulnerable to fungi infestation.
On average, there could be as many as 13 to 14 subterranean termite colonies per acre, meaning a typical home may easily have three to four colonies under or around it.
WHAT ARE WOOD DESTROYING ORGANISMS?
No one likes purchasing a home and finding out that wood destroying organisms have encroached onto your new property. They can quickly dampen your new home ownership celebration.
The most common types of wood destroying organisms are termites, but carpenter ants can also be found in many locations throughout Florida. Below we will discuss some of the dangers of an infestation and the importance of having an inspection.
WDO Inspections
Termites can be such a hassle, as such, wood destroying organism inspections have become more commonplace. This helps prevent nasty surprises on move-in day. Having a WDO inspection requires a certified professional that involves three basic steps that we have outlined below.
Termite inspection in Central Florida is an essential part of being a homeowner. Reach out to us today if you are in need of a WDO inspection.
Step One: Active Infestation
The most important part of any inspection is to determine if any established termite colonies exist on your property. This happens often, so it is important the inspector be thorough. Your inspector will look for any signs such as mud tubes, rotting wood, frass (termite feces), discarded wings, soft spots in wood, peeling paint, and other similar indicators. The inspector also will be able to tell you the extent of damage.
Step Two: Potential Infestation
The next part of your inspection will involve looking for conditions that can lead to an infestation, but the inspector has found no physical evidence of an existing colony. They will check areas where soil is coming into contact with any wood on your home. This allows easy access for subterranean termites. The inspector will also look for items such as cracked tile, missing grout, leaky gutters, all of which increase the likelihood of future termite infestation.
Step Three: Inspection Recommendations
At the end of your WDO inspection, you will receive a report. This report will discuss what was checked and your inspector’s findings. Some areas may not have been able to be inspected due to lack of access, availability or such. The report will have details on all of this, including inspector recommendations that should be done on the future.
What is a termite inspection?
A termite inspection is simply a procedure that is used to determine if there are any termites in or around your home or business. If there are Termites, then you will need to take action to protect yourself from their damage. However, if there are no Termites found during the inspection, then you can continue with your normal routine without worry.
What are the benefits of a termite inspection?
The benefits of a termite inspection include the prevention of costly damage to your property, the identification of any potential termite infestations, and the provision of advice and guidance on termite prevention.
How long does a termite inspection take?
The average length of a termite inspection depends on several factors, including the size of the building being inspected and the number of termites found inside it. Generally speaking, however, inspections usually take between two and four hours to complete.
