Hey there! If you’re a homeowner in Jacksonville wondering what on earth a “WDO inspection” is, you’re in the right place. As a resident of this humid, subtropical climate, you may have heard rumblings about these mysterious inspections but weren’t totally sure what they’re all about. Well, wonder no more!
I’m here to lift the veil on WDO inspections, clue you in on why they’re so crucial here in Jacksonville specifically, and equip you with all the info you need to make sure your home’s next inspection is completed properly. Whether you’ve been through one before or it’ll be your first rodeo, you’ll learn the secrets behind these specialized assessments by the end. Curious? Read on, friend!
What Exactly is a WDO Inspection?
Alright, no more suspense! WDO stands for “wood-destroying organisms.” This encompasses a range of pests like termites, carpenter ants, wood-boring beetles, and decay fungi that can compromise the structural integrity of a home by damaging its wooden elements. A WDO inspection identifies and evaluates any current or potential pest issues that may be lurking.
In our hot, muggy climate, these destructive invaders thrive. That’s why a thorough WDO inspection during a real estate transaction is actually required by law for homes in Duval County and most of Northeast Florida. Typically grouped under the “pest inspection” umbrella, WDO assessments are far more extensive and specialized than your average bug check.
Why Such a Big Deal in Jacksonville?
As mentioned, our warm, wet environment creates the perfect breeding ground for wood-destroying pests. Termites in particular swarm in droves during the spring mating season. Between food sources like leftover wood from construction, moisture sources like poorly draining soil, and the ideal habitat to flourish, Jacksonville homes encounter these threats constantly.
In fact, the University of Florida lists over a dozen termite species either common or established in Duval County alone! From subterranean termites that tunnel underground to drywood termites that infest lumber above ground, we battle them all here. Without proper precautions like treatment and vigilant inspections, serious structural issues can develop.
When Do I Need a WDO Inspection?
The main times a WDO Inspection Jacksonville FL is legally required include:
- Prior to officially listing a home for sale
- Before closing on a home sale
- Related to securing a mortgage loan
- After major weather events with widespread flooding or damage
- Every year for ongoing protection from established termite colonies
Most buyers will not move forward with purchasing a property without an up-to-date, satisfactory WDO inspection first. Sellers should schedule this assessment as soon as they decide to put their home on the market. Waiting until the last minute risks delaying the entire closing timeline.
Who Can Perform a Certified WDO Inspection?
Only properly certified professionals can conduct legitimate WDO inspections. Active inspectors must hold a current license from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS).
They also need broad expertise across all wood-destroying species and pathologies plus inspection methods for each one. Inspector certifications specifically for termite assessments are also common credentials. Relevant educational background, thorough field training, and multiple years handling Florida properties are key.
What Does the Full Process Entail?
Now for the good stuff! What actually happens during one of these top-to-bottom pest examinations? Here’s a simplified overview:
- Interview the homeowners about past/current issues, treatments, repairs, etc. Tour the exterior.
- Check all foundation walls, pier columns, slab perimeters, attached slabs, etc. for signs of termites
- Probe wood structural components with a pick and other tools to test for damage
- Inspect bath traps, faucets, exterior hose bibs, sprinkler heads, etc. for signs of infestation
- Open access doors, electrical panels, insulation, drop ceilings, attic spaces, etc. to inspect framing thoroughly
- Identify moisture intrusion issues, wood rot, prior treatments, and conducive conditions
- Document areas unable to access fully
- Summarize findings and compile an inspection report
There are a lot more nitty gritty details about tools used, inspection methodology, documentation protocols, and more we could get into. But that covers the overall gist!
What Happens After the Inspection Report is Complete?
The inspector provides their full writeup to both the buyer’s and seller’s real estate agents. The agents have a duty to convey the results to their clients. The buyer then has 3 days to decide whether to move forward based on the report, re-negotiate any repairs, or walk away.
If active infestation is found, treatment will be required using special techniques tailored to the type of pest discovered. Fungi issues demand corrective moisture control. Evidence of prior problems could warrant preventative treatments as well to keep potential colonies from returning. Any damage gets repaired too.
Most problems turn up during the buyers’ WDO inspection Jacksonville FL process before purchase. But even current homeowners should schedule periodic assessments to catch issues early and prevent costly repairs later.
Let’s Recap those WDO Inspection Must-Knows
Phew – that was a boatload of intel to digest, I know! Let’s hit the key takeaways one more time so you become a proud WDO expert:
- WDO = wood-destroying organisms like termites that can severely damage building integrity
- Jacksonville’s climate causes huge pest pressures, especially from spring-swarming termites
- Legally required before home sales and mortgages to avoid infestation surprises
- Performed by specially certified inspectors using comprehensive process to ID issues
- Includes full write-up on areas checked; any problems found plus next steps
- Homeowners should schedule periodic WDO inspections too for preventative care
- Watch for red flags like pinholes, frass piles, mold on wood etc. between checks
Well friend, I believe my work here is officially complete! You now hold the secrets behind WDO inspections Jacksonville FL like a seasoned pro. Whether you’re buying, selling or currently own a home here, use your newfound mastery of these critical assessments to your full advantage!
Stay vigilant against those sneaky pests on the daily. And don’t hesitate to schedule an inspection at the very first sign of trouble to nip issues fast. Here’s to protecting your beloved home from nasty wood destroyers once and for all!
