Standard WDO termite inspection
A complete inspection of the property for termites, wood-boring beetles and other wood-destroying insects. This is the typical real estate transaction inspection.
Serving Broward County
WDO Termite Inspection in Fort Lauderdale
WDO (Wood-Destroying Organism) termite inspections for real estate transactions in Fort Lauderdale. FDACS form 13645, required by Florida law for property sales.
- Phones answered 24/7, every month of the year
- Drywood and Formosan termite treatment, WDO reports, tenting
- Whole-building coordination for condos and HOAs
- Price confirmed before treatment, written report after
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WDO Inspection
WDO Termite Inspection: what it covers
Quick answer
A WDO termite inspection is a thorough examination of a property for termites, wood-boring beetles and wood-destroying insects. Florida law requires a WDO report for real estate sales under section 482.226. The inspection uses FDACS form 13645. Only a licensed operator can issue a legal WDO report. Phones answered 24/7.
Florida real estate law mandates a WDO termite inspection on most property sales. The inspection must be performed by a licensed pest control operator and documented on the official FDACS form 13645. Buyers, lenders and attorneys rely on the WDO report to understand the property's termite status and any damage or treatment needs.
A thorough WDO inspection covers everything from foundation to attic. The inspector looks for active and past termite damage, wood-destroying beetles, carpenter ants and other organisms that damage wood. The report is a legal document that affects the sale price, buyer financing and closing. Accuracy and compliance with Florida law are essential.
Fort Lauderdale's unique climate and architecture create pest challenges that require professional expertise. The combination of year-round warmth, seasonal flooding, hurricane damage, and dense vegetation means pests are a constant concern for property owners. DIY approaches and delayed treatment often make pest problems worse. Professional pest control tailored to Fort Lauderdale's specific conditions is the most cost-effective approach.
Our pest control service is built on understanding Fort Lauderdale's pest ecology and the factors that drive pest invasions into homes and businesses. We track seasonal pest patterns, monitor local pest populations, and adjust treatment strategies accordingly. This localized approach is more effective than generic pest control that ignores regional differences.
Pest control service in Fort Lauderdale is an investment in property protection and family health. Early detection and treatment prevent costly infestations that damage structures, create health risks, and require expensive remediation. Regular service costs far less than dealing with severe infestations.
- Service area
- Fort Lauderdale & Broward County
- Availability
- Phones answered 24/7
- Phone
- (855) 974-4733
What is form FDACS-13645 and why is it required?
Form 13645 (Report of Wood-Destroying Organism) is the official Florida termite inspection report. Section 482.226 requires it for real estate sales. Buyers need it to know the property's termite status.
The FDACS form is not optional. Without it, most lenders will not approve financing for the property. The report is part of the legal closing documents.
Understanding the specific pest problems in Fort Lauderdale allows us to provide targeted solutions. Our experience with Fort Lauderdale's climate, building types, and pest species ensures recommendations are practical and effective. We focus on prevention and early intervention to keep pest populations manageable and protect your home or business.
What happens if the WDO report finds termite damage?
The damage is documented on the report. Buyer and seller may negotiate repair or treatment before closing. The report does not prevent the sale—it discloses the condition.
Finding termite damage is not a deal-breaker. It is information. The buyer decides if the repair cost and treatment expense are acceptable.
Understanding the specific pest problems in Fort Lauderdale allows us to provide targeted solutions. Our experience with Fort Lauderdale's climate, building types, and pest species ensures recommendations are practical and effective. We focus on prevention and early intervention to keep pest populations manageable and protect your home or business.
Can a buyer get their own WDO inspection?
Yes. Some buyers order their own inspection. The seller's and buyer's inspections must agree, or the discrepancy is a closing issue.
If inspections disagree about termite status, a third inspector may be needed to resolve the dispute before closing.
Understanding the specific pest problems in Fort Lauderdale allows us to provide targeted solutions. Our experience with Fort Lauderdale's climate, building types, and pest species ensures recommendations are practical and effective. We focus on prevention and early intervention to keep pest populations manageable and protect your home or business.
Warning signs
Signs you need wdo termite inspection
WDO inspection safety. WDO inspection is non-invasive. The inspector does not spray, treat or poison during inspection. Crawl space entry follows standard safety practices. Hard hats and respirators are used in dusty or moldy spaces.
- Real estate transaction requiring a WDO report for closing
- Buyer requesting termite inspection before purchase
- Lender requiring a WDO report to approve financing
- Homeowner selling property with disclosed termite history
- Pest activity observed by buyer or seller during showing
- Property inspection report noting wood damage or pest concern
- Previous termite treatment on property requiring certification
- Renovation or reconstruction of treated areas requiring documentation
Our process
How our wdo termite inspection visit works
Inspection scheduling and property access
The inspection is scheduled at a time allowing access to all areas. The inspector needs access to crawl spaces, attics, basements and exterior foundations.
Thorough exterior and foundation examination
The inspector walks the entire foundation perimeter, looking for mud tubes, termite entry points and past treatments. Soil settlement and moisture issues are noted.
Attic, crawl space and interior wood inspection
All accessible wood framing is examined. Damage, termites, wood-boring beetles and carpenter ant activity are noted. The inspector looks for both active and past damage.
Wood damage assessment and repair estimates
Areas of termite or wood-destroying insect damage are documented. Severity is assessed: actively termitized, previously damaged and treated, or sound wood.
FDACS form 13645 completion and issuance
The inspector completes the official FDACS form 13645 report. The report lists all findings, damage assessment, active treatment and recommendations.
Report delivery to buyer, lender and attorney
The WDO report is provided to the buyer and delivered to the lender and attorney. It becomes part of the closing documents.
Options
Types and options for wdo termite inspection
WDO inspection with treatment recommendation
Beyond inspection, the report recommends treatment if active termites or damage is found. The buyer and seller may negotiate treatment before closing.
Follow-up WDO inspection after treatment
After termite treatment, a follow-up inspection confirms treatment was successful and the property is clear. This satisfies lender requirements.
Cost
How much does wdo termite inspection cost in Fort Lauderdale?
WDO inspection cost in Fort Lauderdale is typically a fixed fee based on property size. Cost factors:
| Job | Typical range | What it includes |
|---|---|---|
| Property square footage | Larger homes take longer to inspect thoroughly | typical single-family home versus large estate |
| Crawl space and attic accessibility | Easy access reduces inspection time; difficult access increases it | open crawl space versus restrictive spaces |
| Past termite treatment history | Properties with past treatment may require more detailed assessment | untreated property versus previously treated |
| Presence of damage requiring detailed documentation | Significant damage increases inspection time and report detail | clean inspection versus major damage assessment |
| Real estate market demand | Peak real estate season may affect pricing | peak season versus slow market |
Most WDO inspections in Fort Lauderdale are fixed-fee service. Your operator quotes the fee in advance.
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Broward County
Why wdo termite inspection is different in Broward County and the Fort Lauderdale coast
Fort Lauderdale's high real estate activity means WDO inspections are routine here. Most property sales include a WDO inspection and report.
Related
Related services
Termite Control
Subterranean termite treatment and prevention for Fort Lauderdale homes. Baiting systems, soil barriers and perimeter protection. Year-round monitoring essential.
Drywood Termite Treatment
Drywood termite treatment for Fort Lauderdale homes. Heat treatment, spot treatment and fumigation options. West Indian drywood termites fly May to June.
Tent Fumigation
Whole-structure fumigation for drywood termites. Tent placement, 24-hour notice, vacate requirements. Florida regulations for condos and multi-unit properties.
Where we work
WDO Termite Inspection across Broward County
- WDO Inspection in Fort Lauderdale
- WDO Inspection in Wilton Manors
- WDO Inspection in Oakland Park
- WDO Inspection in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea
- WDO Inspection in Lauderdale Lakes
- WDO Inspection in Lauderhill
- WDO Inspection in Plantation
- WDO Inspection in Sunrise
- WDO Inspection in Davie
- WDO Inspection in Dania Beach
- WDO Inspection in Hollywood
- WDO Inspection in Hallandale Beach
- WDO Inspection in Miramar
- WDO Inspection in Pembroke Pines
- WDO Inspection in Cooper City
- WDO Inspection in Southwest Ranches
- WDO Inspection in Tamarac
- WDO Inspection in Margate
- WDO Inspection in North Lauderdale
- WDO Inspection in Coconut Creek
- WDO Inspection in Pompano Beach
- WDO Inspection in Lighthouse Point
- WDO Inspection in Deerfield Beach
- WDO Inspection in Coral Springs
- WDO Inspection in Pembroke Park
- WDO Inspection in West Park
Not sure if you're covered? Check your ZIP code.
Guides
Read before you book
Drywood or Subterranean Termites in Broward: How to Tell Them Apart
Drywood termites live inside dry wood and need no contact with soil, while subterranean termites live in soil and reach wood from the ground.
Checking a Pest Control License in Florida: FDACS, Chapter 482 and the Four Categories
Florida licenses pest control under Chapter 482 of the Florida Statutes, the Structural Pest Control Act, and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services issues the licenses.
Pest and Termite Damage and Homeowners Insurance in Broward County
Homeowners policies generally exclude termite and vermin damage, but the policy and the cause decide the outcome.
FAQ
WDO Termite Inspection FAQs
Is a WDO inspection required for every real estate sale in Florida?
Most sales require one per section 482.226. Some specialty properties or cash sales may not, but lenders almost always require it.
How long does a WDO inspection take?
A typical inspection takes 1 to 3 hours, depending on property size and accessibility. The report is completed within a few days.
Can I attend the WDO inspection?
Yes, and many buyers and sellers do attend. The inspector will explain findings and answer questions during the inspection.
What if my property was treated for termites recently?
The inspector documents past treatment on the report. Recent treatment is documented but does not stop the inspection or report.
Does the WDO report guarantee the property is termite-free?
The report reflects the condition on inspection day. Future infestations are not covered. The report is a snapshot in time, not a guarantee.
What products are used in your pest control treatments?
We use EPA-approved products that are safe when applied according to label directions. Product selection depends on the pest species and treatment area. Your technician advises on specific products used and their safety profile. Products are selected for effectiveness while minimizing impact on non-target organisms. We follow Florida regulations and industry best practices for product selection and application.
How long have you been in business serving Fort Lauderdale?
We have built expertise through years of experience managing pests across South Florida's unique climate and pest ecology. Our technicians are trained on Florida-specific pest behaviors, seasonal patterns, and local regulations. We understand Fort Lauderdale's residential and commercial pest challenges and provide solutions tailored to local conditions. Long experience means we know what works and what doesn't in Fort Lauderdale.
What should I do to prepare for a pest control treatment?
Your technician provides preparation instructions specific to the treatment type. Generally, clear floor areas, remove pets from treated areas, and ensure access to baseboards and entry points. For some treatments, you may need to vacate for a few hours while products dry. Your technician provides detailed pre-treatment instructions to ensure the treatment is effective and safe.
Will pest control make my home smell?
Modern pest control products are designed to be low-odor. Some treatments may have a slight odor that dissipates within hours. Your technician advises on expected odor level and ventilation during and after treatment. Most homeowners notice minimal odor with professional treatments.
Do I need to sign a long-term contract for pest control service?
Contract terms vary. Some customers prefer monthly service with no long-term commitment; others choose quarterly or seasonal plans. Your technician discusses options during the initial inspection and provides pricing for different service frequencies. We work with your preferred schedule and budget.