When purchasing or refinancing a home in Boise, Meridian, or Nampa, lenders and buyers often require a WDI or WDO inspection. WDI stands for Wood Destroying Insects and WDO stands for Wood Destroying Organisms. These inspections are designed to identify hidden problems that could cause structural damage to a property if left untreated.
The process begins with a licensed inspector performing a detailed examination of the home. Areas checked typically include crawl spaces, attics, basements, wooden decks, and any place where wood is in contact with soil or moisture. Inspectors look for evidence of termites, carpenter ants, powderpost beetles, or signs of fungal decay such as dry rot. They also note conditions that make a structure more vulnerable, such as excess moisture, poor ventilation, or wood-to-soil contact.
After the inspection, a written report is created that outlines any findings. This report is often required by banks, mortgage companies, or real estate professionals before they will approve a loan or finalize a transaction. For buyers, the report provides peace of mind and may help negotiate repairs before closing. For sellers, having a clean inspection on file can speed up the sales process. For homeowners, even outside of a transaction, a WDI or WDO inspection can uncover hidden threats and save thousands of dollars in future repairs.
The inspection itself is straightforward and usually takes one to two hours depending on the size of the property. The key is that it must be performed by a licensed professional who understands the pests and conditions common to the Treasure Valley. At Pestcom, our inspectors are trained to not only identify problems but also to recommend practical steps to correct them, whether through direct treatment, repairs, or preventative measures.
Scheduling a WDI or WDO inspection is one of the most important steps in protecting your home investment. It ensures that you enter a real estate transaction with full knowledge of the property’s condition and gives you the opportunity to address issues before they turn into expensive damage.