WDO Inspections
Wood Destroying Organisms
Termites aren't the only threat to your home's structure. Learn about all the organisms that destroy wood — and how to stop them.
What Is a WDO Inspection?
A Wood Destroying Organism (WDO) inspection is a thorough examination of your home for evidence of any organism that damages wood — not just termites. In Arizona, WDO reports are commonly required for real estate transactions.
Our licensed inspectors check for active infestations, previous damage, and conditions that make your home vulnerable. You get a written report documenting every finding.
Wood Destroying Organisms We Inspect For
Termites
The most destructive WDO in Arizona. Subterranean and drywood termites cause billions in damage annually. They consume wood from the inside out, often leaving only a thin shell that looks intact until it collapses.
How to Identify
- Mud tubes on foundation
- Frass (pellet droppings)
- Hollow-sounding wood
- Discarded wings
Treatment
Liquid soil treatment, bait systems, or fumigation depending on species and severity
Wood-Boring Beetles
Several beetle species lay eggs in wood, and the larvae bore through it as they develop. Common Arizona species include the old house borer and powderpost beetle. Damage can continue for years before it's noticed.
How to Identify
- Small round exit holes (1–3mm)
- Fine powdery frass
- Weakened or crumbling wood
- Audible chewing sounds in walls
Treatment
Localized insecticide treatment, heat treatment, or fumigation for severe infestations
Carpenter Ants
Unlike termites, carpenter ants don't eat wood — they excavate it to build nests. They prefer moist or damaged wood and are often a sign of an underlying moisture problem. Colonies can grow to 10,000 workers.
How to Identify
- Coarse sawdust-like frass
- Large black ants (1/4–1/2 inch)
- Rustling sounds in walls
- Smooth, clean galleries in wood
Treatment
Baiting, direct injection into galleries, and addressing moisture sources
Wood Decay Fungi
Wood decay fungi (dry rot and wet rot) break down the structural integrity of wood through enzymatic digestion. They require moisture to thrive and are common in areas with plumbing leaks, poor ventilation, or ground contact.
How to Identify
- Soft, spongy, or crumbling wood
- Discoloration (brown, white, or gray)
- Musty odor
- Visible fungal growth or mycelium
Treatment
Remove and replace damaged wood, eliminate moisture source, apply fungicidal borate treatments
What's Included in a WDO Report
Active Infestations
Documentation of any live organisms found during the inspection, including species identification.
Previous Damage
Evidence of past infestations or damage, even if no active organisms are present at the time of inspection.
Conditions Conducive
Factors that make your home vulnerable — wood-to-soil contact, moisture issues, improper ventilation.
Treatment Recommendations
Specific, actionable recommendations for any findings, with options for remediation.
WDO Reports for Real Estate
Buying or selling a home in Arizona? A WDO inspection is often required by lenders and is always a smart move for buyers. Our reports are accepted by all major lenders and meet Arizona state requirements. We turn reports around fast — typically within 24 hours of inspection.
24hr
Report turnaround
100%
Lender accepted
Licensed
AZ certified inspectors
Need a WDO Inspection?
Whether it's for a real estate transaction or peace of mind, we'll give you a thorough inspection and a clear written report.