WDO / Termite Inspections in Orlando & Central Florida
A Wood Destroying Organism inspection is typically required by lenders on FHA, VA and USDA loans. Florida homes are vulnerable to several types of wood destroying insects and organisms — we find them before they become your problem.
- Required for FHA, VA & USDA
- State WDO Report Form
- Performed by Termite Depot
- $150 With a Home Inspection
What Is a WDO Inspection?
A wood-destroying organism (WDO) means an arthropod or plant life which damages and can reinfest seasoned wood in a structure. Florida homeowners are subject to damage by several types of wood destroying insects and organisms.
When obtaining a mortgage or a mortgage guarantee to finance the purchase of a home, you will most likely be required to obtain a WDO inspection by the bank, the mortgage company, or the guarantor — FHA, VA, HUD and others.
A WDO inspection is reported on its own state form, separate from your home inspection report.
What FDACS Recognizes as Wood Destroying
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) recognizes these organisms as wood destroying:
Wood Rot vs. Termite Damage
These are frequently confused. Wood rot is a fungal decay driven by moisture; termite damage is caused by an active or previous infestation. The treatment and the cost are completely different, which is why the distinction matters on a report.
Wood Rot
Fungal decay caused by persistent moisture. Common around leaking plumbing, poor drainage, failed flashing and untreated exterior trim.
Termite Damage
Channelling through the grain of the wood, often hidden behind an intact surface. Evidence of an active or previous infestation must be reported.
Live Termites, Caught on Camera
Footage from our own Central Florida inspections.
Why a Good WDO Inspection Matters
Common Questions
When is a WDO inspection required?
If you are financing with an FHA, VA or USDA loan, a WDO report is almost always required by the bank, mortgage company or guarantor before closing.
How much does a WDO inspection cost?
$250 stand-alone, or $150 when added to a home inspection. See full pricing.
Is a WDO included in a home inspection?
No. A WDO is reported on its own state form and is separate from the home inspection report, though we can perform both in the same visit at the bundled rate.
What is the difference between wood rot and termite damage?
Wood rot is fungal decay driven by moisture. Termite damage is caused by insects channelling through the wood. They look similar on the surface but require completely different remedies, so the report distinguishes between them.
Who performs the WDO inspection?
Our WDO inspections are performed by Termite Depot, a licensed pest control operator, and reported on the state WDO form your lender requires.
WDO Inspections Across Central Florida
We perform WDO and termite inspections throughout Orlando, Kissimmee, St. Cloud, Celebration, Winter Park and Sanford — up through Daytona Beach and DeLand — and all along the Space Coast in Melbourne, Palm Bay, Cape Canaveral, Cocoa, Merritt Island and Titusville. Serving Orange, Osceola, Lake, Volusia, Brevard, Seminole and Polk counties.