Understanding WDI Reports

A Guide for Home Buyers, Sellers & Real Estate Professionals

A Wood Destroying Insect (WDI) Inspection Report is one of the most common documents requested during residential real estate transactions. Whether you're buying, selling, or representing a client, understanding what a WDI report does—and what it does not do—can help you make informed decisions during the inspection process.

At Bug Bust Pest & Termite, we believe inspections should provide clear, objective information. This guide explains the purpose of a WDI inspection, what inspectors look for, and how to interpret the findings.

What Is a WDI Inspection?

A WDI inspection is a visual inspection of accessible areas of a structure for evidence of wood-destroying insects and visible damage they may have caused. Depending on the transaction and applicable requirements, inspectors may complete an NPMA-33 form or another state-approved reporting form where required. The inspection documents what is visible on the day of the inspection—it is not a structural engineering evaluation or a guarantee that wood-destroying insects are absent.

Common wood-destroying insects include:

• Eastern subterranean termites

• Carpenter ants

• Carpenter bees

• Wood-boring beetles

What Does the Inspector Look For?

During a WDI inspection, the inspector examines accessible areas for:

• Evidence of active wood-destroying insects

• Evidence of previous infestations

• Visible damage consistent with wood-destroying insects

• Conditions that may increase the risk of future infestations

• Areas that could not be inspected because they were inaccessible or obstructed

The inspection typically includes accessible portions of:

• Basement

• Crawl space

• Attic

• Garage

• Interior living areas

• Exterior foundation and structure

The exact scope depends on accessibility and any applicable state requirements.

What a WDI Report Does Not Do

A WDI inspection is often misunderstood.

It does not:

• Guarantee that a property is free of termites or other wood-destroying insects.

• Evaluate the structural integrity of the building.

• Predict future infestations.

• Inspect concealed or inaccessible areas.

Like any visual inspection, it reflects the conditions that were observable at the time of the inspection.

Understanding the Findings

A report may document:

No Visible Evidence

No visible evidence of wood-destroying insects was observed in the accessible areas inspected on the date of the inspection.

Evidence of Previous Activity

Evidence of a previous infestation may be present even though no live insects are observed. Previous treatment records and repairs can provide helpful context.

Active Infestation

If active wood-destroying insects or current evidence of activity are observed, the report will identify the findings and may recommend appropriate action.

Why Accessibility Matters

Even the most thorough inspection has limitations.

Areas that may be inaccessible include:

• Finished walls

• Areas behind stored belongings

• Crawl spaces with limited access

• Wall voids

• Heavy insulation

• Unsafe areas

Providing reasonable access to these areas helps make the inspection as complete as possible.

Tips for Buyers and Sellers

Before the inspection:

• Unlock all rooms.

• Provide access to basements and crawl spaces.

• Move stored items away from access panels where practical.

• Unlock garages and detached buildings.

• Secure pets.

Simple preparation allows the inspection to proceed more efficiently.

From the Inspector

One of the biggest misconceptions I encounter is that a WDI inspection is simply a "termite inspection." In reality, we're evaluating the property for several types of wood-destroying insects and documenting what can be observed in accessible areas on the day of the inspection.

I encourage buyers and sellers to ask questions during the inspection process. Understanding the findings is just as important as receiving the report itself.

– Dan Sokolow
Owner | Licensed Pest Control Applicator | State Licensed Lead Inspector/Risk Assessor

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a WDI inspection the same as a home inspection?

No. A home inspection evaluates many systems within a house, while a WDI inspection focuses specifically on visible evidence of wood-destroying insects and related conditions.

Does evidence of previous termites mean the house has active termites?

Not necessarily. Previous activity and active infestations are different findings. A report should be read carefully to understand what was actually observed.

Can termites be hidden?

Yes. Termites often work inside walls, beneath floors, or in other concealed areas. That's one reason why the report explains that the inspection is visual and limited to accessible areas.

Related Resources

Continue learning:

• Preparing for a Termite Inspection

• Common Wood Destroying Insects in New Jersey

• Lead Inspection Requirements for Rental Properties

• Mold and Moisture: What Buyers Should Know

• Frequently Asked Questions About Property Inspections