
Buying a home is one of the most significant investments you'll ever make. To protect your investment, it's crucial to ensure your prospective home is free from wood-destroying organisms (WDO) such as termites, carpenter ants, and other pests. A WDO inspection, often referred to as a termite inspection, is a thorough evaluation designed to identify any potential issues before you commit to the purchase. Here's what you can expect during a WDO inspection.
Scheduling the Inspection
Once you have an accepted offer on a home, your Transaction Coordinator will schedule the WDO inspection with a licensed pest control company with certified inspectors who have experience in identifying wood-destroying organisms.
Cost of the Inspection
A termite inspection generally costs anywhere from $60-$125.
Preparation for the Inspection
Before the inspection, the current homeowner may be asked to clear out areas that need to be inspected. This includes moving items away from walls, removing stored items in basements and attics, and ensuring that crawlspaces and other hard-to-reach areas are accessible.
During the Inspection
A WDO inspection is a comprehensive visual examination of the entire property, both inside and out. Here’s what the inspector will typically do:
Exterior Inspection: The inspector will start by examining the exterior of the home, including the foundation, eaves, and any wood structures like decks or porches. They will look for signs of damage, such as wood rot, mud tubes, or hollow-sounding wood, which can indicate termite activity.
Interior Inspection: Inside the home, the inspector will check areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. They will look for signs of infestation, such as discarded wings, frass (termite droppings), or damaged wood.
Crawlspaces and Attics: These areas are particularly susceptible to WDOs. The inspector will enter crawlspaces and attics to check for signs of termites, carpenter ants, beetles, and other pests. They will also look for conditions conducive to infestation, such as high humidity or poor ventilation.
Detailed Documentation: Throughout the inspection, the inspector will take detailed notes and photographs to document any findings. This documentation is crucial for the final report and for any necessary negotiations with the seller.
The Wood Destroying Insect Inspection Report
Here is detailed information about the Report (a.k.a Termite Inspector) you receive from your Termite Inspector typically on the same day after your inspection so long as your report is paid in full.
Identification of Infestations: Any visible evidence of wood-destroying organisms will be noted, along with the specific areas affected.
Damage Assessment: The report will detail any damage found, including the extent and severity. This information is vital for understanding the potential cost of repairs.
Conditions Conducive to Infestation: The inspector will note any conditions that could lead to future infestations, such as excessive moisture, wood-to-soil contact, or structural issues.
Recommendations for Treatment: If infestations are found, the report will include recommendations for treatment and prevention. This might involve chemical treatments, repairs, or changes to the property to reduce the risk of future infestations.

Next Steps
If the WDO inspection report identifies issues, you will need to decide how to proceed. Possible steps include:
Negotiation: You can negotiate with the seller to address the issues, either by having them complete the necessary treatments and repairs or by adjusting the sale price to cover the costs.
Further Evaluation: In some cases, you might want to get a second opinion or additional inspections to fully understand the scope of the problem.
Walk Away: If the issues are too severe and cannot be resolved to your satisfaction, you may have the option to back out of the deal, depending on the terms of your contract.
Conclusion
A WDO inspection is a vital part of the home-buying process, providing peace of mind and protecting your investment. By understanding what to expect during the inspection, you can be better prepared to address any issues that arise and make informed decisions about your prospective home. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or an experienced real estate investor, a thorough WDO inspection is an essential step in ensuring your new home is safe, sound, and pest-free.
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