Purchasing a home is a significant milestone, but it also involves navigating a complex process, especially for first-time buyers. Beyond negotiating prices and selecting the right neighborhood, there's a checklist of inspections that lenders typically require. One of the most crucial? The WDO inspection.

If you're in a termite-prone area like Florida, understanding what this inspection entails can help you avoid costly mistakes. Let's delve into the details.

What Does WDO Mean?

WDO stands for Wood-Destroying Organisms, a category that includes termites, certain types of beetles, and fungi like dry rot and wet rot. These organisms gradually consume a home's wooden structures, compromising its safety and value.

Common culprits include:

• Termites (Drywood and Subterranean)

• Wood-boring beetles

• Dry rot and wet rot fungi

Each of these can cause significant damage, both visible and hidden.

What Is a WDO Inspection?

A WDO inspection is a detailed examination of a property by a certified inspector, aimed at identifying signs of wood-destroying organisms. It goes beyond a standard 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

• Previous 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 Does a WDO Inspection Differ from a Termite Inspection?

While often used interchangeably, a WDO inspection is not the same as a termite inspection. A termite inspection only looks for termite activity, whereas 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 elusive. 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.