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Why Every Real Estate Agent Needs to Master the WDO Report
In the fast-paced world of real estate, agents juggle countless tasks to keep transactions moving forward. With 30-day escrows packed with inspections, negotiations, and endless paperwork, it’s easy to overlook a crucial piece of the puzzle: the Termite Report—or as it’s officially called, the Wood Destroying Organism (WDO) Report.
Here’s the truth: This report is far more than just a ‘termite check.’ It’s a roadmap to potential deal-breakers—covering everything from water damage and fungus to structural integrity concerns. And yet, many agents underestimate its importance, putting both their transactions and their clients at risk.
The WDO Report: More Than Just Termites
A properly executed WDO Report doesn’t just check for termite activity—it reveals hidden threats that could derail a sale. Water intrusion, dry rot, and fungal decay are often more damaging than termites, leading to costly repairs post-sale.
For real estate professionals, understanding the full scope of this report is a game-changer. It empowers you to:
✅ Identify red flags early—saving deals from last-minute surprises.
✅ Negotiate with confidence—armed with clear, factual data.
✅ Protect your buyers and sellers—reducing post-sale disputes and liabilities.
Repairs: More Than a Quick Fix
Most termite companies include repair recommendations in their reports. But here’s where it gets tricky: Not all companies are created equal. If a company is recommending structural repairs, they should have a licensed general contractor on staff.
Why? Because fixing damage isn’t just about patching the problem—it’s about addressing the underlying cause. If you don’t fix what led to the damage (like a leaky roof or poor drainage), you’re setting your clients up for recurring headaches.
The Structural Pest Control Act: The Rules Every Agent Should Know
The Structural Pest Control Act is 178 pages of legal requirements, governing how termite inspections are conducted. The most important takeaway for agents? Understanding Section I and Section II issues:
- Section I: Active infestations, infections, or existing damage (like visible termites, dry rot, or fungus).
- Section II: Conditions that could lead to infestations or infections (like earth-to-wood contact, water stains, or faulty grading).
A critical point: If a visible Section I or II condition is missed in the report, the termite company is responsible for fixing it—even after the sale closes. But if an issue was hidden behind furniture, under carpet, or inside inaccessible areas, the liability does not fall on the inspector. Understanding this distinction can save you from unnecessary post-sale disputes.
The Hidden Risk of Skipping the Termite Report
With today’s real estate market flooded with bank-owned properties, some escrows are skipping termite inspections altogether. That’s a dangerous gamble.
Without a WDO Report, buyers could be inheriting thousands of dollars in unseen damage—and brokers could find themselves legally exposed for failing to recommend a proper inspection.
💡 Pro tip for agents: Always advise your buyers to get an independent termite inspection. Not only does it ensure a thorough check, but it also forces the seller’s chosen termite company to be competitive in pricing and repair recommendations.
Give Your Clients—and Your Business—a Competitive Edge
At The Termite Guy and IRC Services, we know that success in real estate is all about standing out. Cutting corners might speed things up, but it’s the extra attention to detail that wins referrals and builds long-term trust.
By mastering the WDO Report and partnering with the right experts, you gain a powerful advantage. You protect your clients, safeguard your transactions, and elevate yourself above the competition.
🚀 Want to learn more about how termite inspections can help your deals close smoothly? Contact The Termite Guy today and let’s make sure your next transaction is rock solid.
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