What Is a WDO/WDI Inspection?
A Wood‑Destroying Organism (WDO) or Wood‑Destroying Insect (WDI) inspection is a specialized evaluation designed to identify the presence, damage, or conditions conducive to destructive pests. These pests include termites, carpenter ants, wood‑boring beetles, and other organisms that can compromise the structural integrity of a home.
A WDO/WDI inspection requires special licensing and training. In Washington, this service must comply with state regulations outlined in WAC 16‑228‑2035, which specify how inspections are performed, documented, and reported.
A proper WDO/WDI inspection doesn’t just identify pest activity—it provides a detailed record of findings so you can take action before small problems turn into major repairs.
Why This Inspection Matters
Wood‑destroying pests are a hidden threat to homes throughout Washington. Left unchecked, they can cause thousands of dollars in damage before you even notice they’re there. A WDO/WDI inspection can be critical whether you are buying, selling, or maintaining a home.
Here are some of the top reasons to schedule one:
1. Mapping and Location of Inspected Substructure
Your inspection report will clearly identify which areas were inspected and document the condition of accessible wood structures. This creates a useful baseline for future maintenance and can be helpful if you need to track changes over time.
2. Required by Some Lenders and Loan Programs
Many mortgage lenders — including FHA, VA, and USDA — require a WDO/WDI inspection before closing. This is especially common in areas known for termite or other wood‑destroying pest activity. Without this inspection, your loan approval could be delayed or denied.
3. Not Included in a Standard Home Inspection
In Washington State, a home inspection license does not cover WDO/WDI inspections. A separate pest inspection license is required. This means even if you’ve scheduled a home inspection, you might not be getting a pest inspection unless you specifically request it from a licensed provider.
4. Avoid Additional Inspection Fees
If your home inspector isn’t licensed for WDO/WDI inspections, you’ll likely need to hire another professional to perform it—often at an added cost and with possible delays. By hiring an inspector licensed for both services, you can streamline the process and save money.
5. Service Referrals for Corrective Work
If an infestation or damage is discovered, we can provide referrals to trusted pest control companies and contractors. Acting quickly is essential to stop the damage from progressing and to protect your investment.
What We Look For
During a WDO/WDI inspection, we check for:
- Evidence of current or past infestations – visible insects, frass (droppings), discarded wings, or bore holes in wood.
- Structural damage – weakened or hollow‑sounding wood, sagging floors, or deteriorated framing.
- Conducive conditions – areas with excessive moisture, poor ventilation, or direct soil‑to‑wood contact that can attract pests.
- Previous treatments – signs of chemical barriers or other pest control measures that may have been applied in the past.
We inspect accessible areas of the structure, including crawl spaces, basements, attics, garages, and the exterior perimeter.
By choosing Cross County Home Inspection LLC, you can be confident that your WDO/WDI inspection is performed according to state standards and recognized by lenders, real estate professionals, and contractors.
When to Schedule a WDO/WDI Inspection
While most people think of pest inspections as part of a home purchase, there are several times when this service is valuable:
- Before Buying a Home – Protect yourself from buying a property with hidden structural damage.
- Before Selling a Home – Show potential buyers you’ve taken steps to maintain the property and prevent surprises during escrow.
- Annual Home Maintenance – Early detection can save thousands in repairs and help preserve property value.
- After Noticing Signs of Damage – Hollow wood, mud tubes, insect wings, or unexplained structural changes should be inspected promptly.
Why Choose Cross County Home Inspection LLC
- Licensed for Both Home & WDO/WDI Inspections – Save time and money by working with a single inspector who can handle both.
- Local Knowledge – We understand the pests common to Washington homes and the areas most at risk.
- Detailed Reporting – You’ll receive a clear, comprehensive report complete with diagrams, findings, and recommendations.
- Prompt Scheduling – Fast turnaround to keep your home purchase or maintenance plans on track.
Protect Your Home Today
Wood‑destroying organisms can cause serious damage — often before you even know they’re there. A professional WDO/WDI inspection from Cross County Home Inspection LLC ensures your property is thoroughly checked and documented in compliance with Washington State law.
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