Wood Destroying Organisms: What Buyers Need to Know

Ah, beautiful sunny Florida. Palm trees swaying, a warm breeze rolling through the lanai. Buying a home in paradise feels like it should be smooth sailing.

Until…

Wood Destroying Organisms.

Not exactly what we sign up for as part of the Florida lifestyle but one of the most important realities buyers need to understand when moving here.

Because beneath the fresh paint, charming trim, and curb appeal, certain organisms thrive in Florida’s humid climate, quietly damaging wood structures over time, often under the radar undetected.

Let’s talk about what WDOs are, the signs to look for, and why this important to check for when you’re buying a home.

What Are Wood Destroying Organisms (WDOs)?

Wood Destroying Organisms are pests or fungi that feed on or damage wood structures in a home.

The most common WDOs in Florida include:

• Subterranean termites
• Drywood termites
• Carpenter ants
• Powderpost beetles
• Wood-decay fungi (rot)

Florida’s warm, humid climate makes conditions ideal for these organisms, which is why WDO inspections are so important in this market.

Signs Buyers Should Look For

WDO damage isn’t always obvious at first glance. Many infestations go unnoticed until an inspection.

So here are some common warning signs to look for:

1. Mud Tubes Along Foundation or Walls

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Termites often build thin, muddy “tunnels” along exterior walls or crawl spaces to travel safely.

Red flag: Pencil-sized tubes near baseboards or concrete.

2. Hollow or Damaged Wood

Wood that sounds hollow when tapped can indicate termite activity beneath the surface.

Look around:

• Window frames
• Door trim
• Baseboards
• Wooden decks

3. Swollen Floors or Buckling Paint

Moisture and termite damage can cause wood to warp, and paint may bubble unexpectedly.

This is often mistaken for simple water damage — but it can signal deeper issues.

4. Discarded Wings

After swarming, termites shed their wings near windows, doors, or light sources.

If you see small piles of wings indoors, take it seriously.

5. Small Pinholes or Powdery Dust

Powderpost beetles leave behind tiny exit holes and fine, sawdust-like powder.

This can appear near:

• Wooden beams
• Furniture
• Hardwood floors

6. Soft Wood or Visible Rot

Wood-decay fungi thrive where moisture persists.

Common areas include:

• Under sinks
• Around showers
• Attics with poor ventilation
• Exterior fascia boards

How WDOs Impact Buyers (and the Transaction)

For buyers, WDOs aren’t just a “pest problem.” They can affect multiple parts of the homebuying process.

Inspection Outcomes

A standard home inspection may note suspicious damage, but a separate WDO inspection is often required for clarity.

Financing Requirements

Many loans — including VA loans — require a clear termite/WDO report.

Active infestation or severe damage can delay or stop closing until treated.

Negotiation Leverage

If WDO damage is found, buyers may negotiate:

• Seller-paid treatment
• Repairs
• Credits toward closing costs
• Price adjustments

Long-Term Maintenance Costs

Even after treatment, some homes require ongoing pest prevention — especially in Florida.

Buyers should factor this into ownership costs.

Peace of Mind

Perhaps most importantly, buyers deserve confidence that the home they’re investing in is structurally sound.

WDO knowledge helps buyers make informed, empowered decisions rather than fearful ones.

Takeaway

Wood Destroying Organisms are one of those hidden Florida realities that every buyer should understand — not to create panic, but to create preparedness.

With the right inspections, professional treatment, and informed guidance, WDO concerns can often be managed appropriately.

Buying a home isn’t just about what looks beautiful on the surface…

It’s also about protecting the investment underneath.

If You’re Buying in Central Florida…

I always encourage my clients to stay proactive with inspections and fully understand what they’re walking into.

If you ever want to know what to look for, what inspections to request, or how to navigate findings during the buying process, I’m always happy to be a resource.

Dionne Aiken
‍REALTOR® | Coldwell Banker Realty
📍 Central Florida
‍legacymoves.com