What a WDO inspection is
A licensed pest control operator checks the accessible areas for wood-destroying organisms such as termites, wood-boring beetles and decay fungi, and reports signs of infestation, damage and previous treatment.
It is a visual inspection of accessible areas, not a guarantee that no problem exists.
Who orders it
Lenders may require it, and buyers often order it as part of the inspection period. Sellers sometimes provide a recent report.
Ask your agent whether your loan or contract requires it.
Types of termites
Subterranean and drywood termites are common in Florida and are treated differently. Subterranean termites need soil treatment or baiting, while drywood termites may require local or whole-structure treatment.
The report should state the type found.
Reading the report
Look for active or inactive evidence, damaged areas, previous treatment and recommendations. The report may recommend further inspection of inaccessible areas.
Ask for estimates for treatment and repair.
Negotiating
If damage or activity is found, you can ask the seller to treat and repair, reduce the price or cancel within the inspection period. Insurance does not usually cover termite damage.
Get written estimates before you negotiate.
Warranties and prevention
Existing treatment warranties may be transferable with a fee. After closing, consider a maintenance plan and reduce moisture and wood-to-soil contact.
Annual inspections are common in Florida.
Common mistakes
Skipping the inspection on an older home, ignoring a recommendation to inspect inaccessible areas, and assuming insurance will pay.
Another mistake is not asking about previous treatment records.
Checklist
Order the inspection early. Read the report and estimates. Negotiate before the deadline. Ask about warranties. Plan prevention.
Signs owners notice
Mud tubes on foundations, discarded wings near windows, small pellets under wood and hollow-sounding timber can indicate an issue. Report anything you see to the inspector rather than guessing.
Cost and timing
The inspection is usually inexpensive compared with treatment and repair costs, and the report arrives within days. Order it early in the inspection period so there is time to negotiate if something is found.
Practical tip
Keep the report and any treatment records with your closing documents. Future buyers and insurers often ask for them, and a clean history helps resale.
Condos and townhomes
Condo owners should ask the association about building-wide pest programs and who is responsible for treatment of shared structures. Townhome owners should check how adjoining units are handled, because termites can move between them.
Next step
We coordinate the inspections you need and explain the reports. Lidiya Tretyak is a licensed Florida real estate agent with Douglas Elliman and speaks English, Russian and Ukrainian; the first consultation is free.
This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Laws and programs change — confirm details with a Florida attorney and a US tax professional.
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