Buying a home is a major life milestone—but it’s also a complex process, especially for first-time buyers. Beyond negotiating prices and choosing the right neighborhood, there's a long checklist of inspections that lenders typically require. One of the most crucial? The WDO inspection.
If you're in a termite-prone state like Florida, understanding what this inspection involves can save you from making a costly mistake. Let’s break it down step-by-step.
What Does WDO Stand For?
WDO stands for Wood-Destroying Organisms—a category that includes termites, certain types of beetles, and even fungal infestations like dry rot and wet rot. These organisms slowly eat away at a home’s wooden structures, compromising the safety and value of the property.
Some of the most common culprits include:
Termites (Drywood and Subterranean)
Wood-boring beetles
Dry rot and wet rot fungi
Each of these can do serious damage—both visible and hidden.
What Is a WDO Inspection?
A WDO inspection is a thorough examination of a property by a certified inspector, aimed at identifying signs of wood-destroying organisms. It goes beyond a regular home inspection, which is why many lenders require it separately before approving a mortgage.
What’s Included in a WDO Inspection?
During the inspection, professionals check for:
Active infestations
Past damage
Conditions conducive to future infestations
Key areas covered typically include:
Window and door frames
Baseboards and trim
Attics and crawlspaces
Flooring and subflooring
Garages, sheds, and other wooden structures
Roof connections and vent areas
Once completed, a detailed report is issued—this document is often required by lenders as part of the home-buying process.
How Is a WDO Inspection Different from a Termite Inspection?
Although often used interchangeably, a WDO inspection is not the same as a termite inspection. A termite inspection only looks for termite activity, while a WDO inspection covers all types of organisms that destroy wood—including fungi and beetles.
That’s why a termite-only report won’t suffice if your lender asks for a full wood-destroying organism report.
Signs You May Have WDO Damage
WDOs can be sneaky. Here are common warning signs that might indicate a problem:
Spongy or crumbling wood
Buckling floors and squeaky boards
Mud tubes on walls or foundations
Discolored drywall or peeling paint
Small pinholes in wood surfaces
Doors and windows that stick
Discarded insect wings
Not all signs are easily visible, which is why hiring a licensed professional for a WDO inspection near you is essential before closing a deal.
Is a WDO Inspection Part of a Standard Home Inspection?
In most cases, no. Even if your home inspector is certified to conduct a WDO inspection, it is still a separate process that requires its own report.
Some companies, like Guardian Angel Inspections, offer bundled services—combining both home and WDO inspections in one visit. This can save you both time and money.
How Much Does a WDO Inspection Cost?
Prices vary depending on the property's size and location, but on average, a WDO inspection costs between $100 and $250. Bundling it with a home inspection can often lead to discounted pricing.
For example, Guardian Angel Inspections offers attractive packages to clients across South Florida, helping ensure their homes are safe and pest-free from day one.
Do I Need a WDO Inspection If I’m Paying Cash?
Absolutely. Even if you’re not financing through a lender, WDO inspections are an investment in peace of mind. Unseen infestations can cost thousands in repair bills—something no new homeowner wants to face.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let WDOs Wreck Your Dream Home
Before you sign on the dotted line, make sure your potential new home is free from harmful pests and fungal decay. A professional WDO inspection offers the clarity and security you need to move forward with confidence.
Want to book a WDO inspection in Florida? Contact Guardian Angel Inspections at (561) 512-7854 or visit our website to schedule your bundled inspection today.
