Living in the beautiful Florida sunshine comes with a unique pest - termites. These wood destroying organisms (WDOs) can cause serious damage to homes if left unchecked. As a Florida homeowner, it's important to understand WDO inspections, the associated reports, and how they help protect your property. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of Florida WDO inspections and reports.
What is a WDO Inspection?
A WDO inspection, also known as a termite inspection, is a detailed visual examination of a home for evidence of wood destroying insects and organisms. The inspection is performed by a trained pest control operator licensed by the state of Florida.
The main target of a WDO inspection is termites, which are by far the most destructive WDO in Florida. Termites feed on cellulose material like the wood used to construct homes. They can seriously compromise structural integrity if left alone to feast.
Other WDOs checked for in an inspection include:
- Powderpost beetles
- Old house borers
- Carpenter ants
- Carpenter bees
- Wood decay fungi
The inspector visually examines both the interior and exterior of the home, looking for signs of WDO infestation. Attics, crawlspaces, slabs, wood structures, insulation, and more are checked. Advanced tools like moisture meters and borescopes may be used. Even trees and stumps on the property are inspected.
When are WDO Inspections Needed in Florida?
WDO inspections are recommended at several important junctures for Florida homeowners:
Pre-Purchase Inspections
Before purchasing a home in Florida, a WDO inspection is strongly advised. Termites and other WDOs can be challenging to spot, and you don't want to discover a major infestation after closing. The WDO inspection protects the buyer by identifying any existing or previous damage.
Refinancing Inspections
Most lenders in Florida require a current WDO inspection report when refinancing a home. This protects their investment and ensures the property's value.
Annual Inspections
Homeowners in Florida should consider an annual WDO inspection. Termites are always active in the warm climate and can rapidly colonize a home. Annual inspections identify issues before major damage occurs.
Inspections After a Treatment
A new WDO inspection should be done after any pest control treatment, such as tenting or spot treatments. This verifies the treatment was effective throughout the property.
Inspections After Remodeling
After any remodeling, additions, or renovations, another WDO inspection is wise. Construction often disrupts termite treatments or exposes untreated areas of the home. An updated inspection checks for any new activity.
What Does the WDO Inspection Report Include?
After thoroughly inspecting the property, the pest control operator completes a detailed WDO inspection report. This important document provides proof of the inspection and clearly summarizes the findings.
Key sections to expect in a Florida WDO inspection report include:
Overview of Treatment Recommendations
The report outlines any and all treatment recommendations from the inspector, such as:
- Tenting for whole structure fumigation
- Spot treatments for localized infestations
- Wood repairs or replacements
- Moisture control
- Removal of stumps or debris
Diagrams of Property and Structures
Diagrams visually map out the property boundaries, locations of structures, and more. Any areas of concern are clearly marked on the diagrams.
Evidence of WDOs
The report documents any evidence of WDOs found. Detailed descriptions and photographs pinpoint locations of termite shelter tubes, fungus damage, insect galleries in wood, etc.
Moisture Readings
Using moisture meters, the inspector records moisture levels throughout the property. Elevated moisture makes a home far more prone to wood decay and WDO infestations.
Treatment Specifications
For homes currently being treated for WDOs, the report provides details like:
- Type of treatment
- Date applied
- Retreatment schedule
- Any warranties
Inspection Limitations
Responsible inspection reports also list any limitations in the inspection, such as inaccessible areas. This protects the inspector from future liability.
Inspector Credentials
The name and license number of the certified WDO inspector is documented. This verifies their credentials and supports the validity of the report.
How Much Does a WDO Inspection Cost?
The average cost of a WDO inspection in Florida ranges from $50 - $200, but can vary based on:
- Property size - Larger homes take more time to thoroughly inspect.
- Location - Inspections may cost more in major metro areas.
- Scope - More extensive inspections with moisture readings, thermal imaging, etc carry a higher price.
- Complexity - Multi-story homes or those with additions cost more to inspect.
- Company - Each pest control firm prices inspections differently.
The cost is well worth it for the peace of mind and documentation provided by a professional Florida WDO inspection report.
What Happens After the Inspection Report?
The Florida WDO report equips homeowners with expert knowledge on the property's condition and any steps needed for treatment and repair. Wise next actions after receiving the report include:
Review All Recommendations
Read through the inspector's treatment recommendations in detail. Make sure any suggested tenting, spot treatments, moisture control, wood repairs, etc. are thoroughly understood before moving forward.
Repair Damage
Wherever previous WDO damage is found, have wood repairs and replacements done as soon as possible. This removes food sources and prevents worsening of damage.
Start Preventative Treatments
Don't delay in starting prescribed preventative treatments like soil termite treatments or wood preservatives. Preventative measures keep WDOs from taking hold in vulnerable areas.
Address Moisture Issues
If elevated moisture levels are reported, promptly address the source(s). Leaky plumbing, improper drainage, condensation problems, and leaks in the roof or walls must be corrected.
Document and Keep the Report
The Florida WDO report provides proof of the property's status for future buyers or lenders. Keep the report on file and have any recommended work documented.
Following up on inspection report recommendations is vital for protecting property and investment value. But the detailed professional inspection itself is the critical first step.
Why Trust the Experts for WDO Inspections?
While a Florida homeowner can look for basic signs of termites, only a licensed inspector has the expertise to conduct a true WDO inspection.
Extensive Training
Inspectors study for years, earning specific credentials through the Entomology and Nematology Department at the University of Florida. Proper identification of various wood destroying species requires considerable skill.
Detect Hidden Signs
Experienced inspectors know the subtle signs of infestation homeowners easily miss. They also use special tools and devices for detecting WDOs not visible to the naked eye.
Pinpoint Problems
General home inspectors provide an overview, but WDO inspectors zero in on wood destroying species. They know all the likely areas to check thoroughly.
Apply Years of Experience
Veteran inspectors have seen thousands of WDO cases in their career. This wealth of experience informs their inspection process and enables them to judge severity accurately.
Provide Next Steps
Inspectors don't just identify WDOs, they recommend the precise treatment and repairs needed. The average homeowner doesn't have the knowledge to decide on proper remediation.
Offer an Objective Assessment
Buyers especially benefit from the objective assessment of a third-party expert. The inspector has no personal stake and provides fair documentation of the home's condition.
Florida WDO inspections and reports provide detailed documentation that helps homeowners protect their most valuable investment - their home. Follow this guide next time termites or other wood destroyers threaten your property.
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