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A pest inspection (specifically termite/WDI inspection) is required for most Florida home purchases. Knowing what is inspected and what to look for yourself helps you negotiate effectively. Here is the framework.
What a Florida WDI inspection covers
- Subterranean termites (mud tubes, damaged wood, swarmers).
- Drywood termites (frass, kick-out holes).
- Powderpost beetles (exit holes, frass).
- Carpenter ants (galleries, frass).
- Wood-decaying fungi.
What is NOT typically covered
- Roaches and indoor pests.
- Mosquito breeding sites.
- Rodent activity.
- Spider populations.
- General pest infestation status.
What to look for yourself
During home tour
- Mud tubes on foundation walls (subterranean termites).
- Termite frass piles below wood structures (drywood termites).
- Discarded wings on windowsills.
- Soft, hollow-sounding wood when tapped.
- Damaged baseboards or trim.
- Roach droppings in cabinets or under sinks.
- Rodent droppings in attic or basement.
- Spider web accumulation (suggests neglect).
Outside
- Wood-to-soil contact.
- Debris piles near foundation.
- Standing water issues.
- Tree branches contacting roof.
- Mulch depth against foundation.
How to negotiate WDI findings
- Active termites: Negotiate seller to treat AND provide warranty before closing.
- Past termite damage: Verify treatment occurred; request structural assessment.
- Powderpost beetles: Negotiate treatment before closing.
- Wood rot/fungi: Often indicates moisture problems requiring repair.
Beyond WDI inspection
Hire a separate pest inspection (general pest, not WDI) for $100-$200 if you want comprehensive evaluation of all pest issues, not just wood-destroying organisms.
Verdict
For Florida home purchases, the WDI inspection is essential and required by most lenders. Supplement with your own visual inspection and consider a separate general pest inspection for full picture. Negotiate findings with seller before closing.
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