Certified pest specialist inspecting a home for wood-destroying insects for WDI report.

Protect Your Home from Wood-Destroying Insects

When purchasing a home, the excitement of a new property can quickly be overshadowed by the threat of termites or other wood-destroying insects. These pests are a serious concern nationwide, causing more than $5 billion in property damage each year. In some cases, your mortgage lender may even require a wood-destroying insect inspection before closing.

Even if an inspection isn’t mandatory, proactive homeowners should strongly consider having one. Termites, carpenter ants, and other wood-damaging insects are often stealthy, and infestations can go unnoticed until significant damage has already occurred. A thorough inspection for wood-destroying insects can save you time, stress, and costly repairs in the long run.

Common Wood-Destroying Insects in Wisconsin

Close-up of an ant showing its small size, six legs, segmented body, and bent antennae.

Carpenter Ants

Close-up view of a termite showing soft pale body, straight antennae, and segmented abdomen.

Termites

Close-up of a large carpenter bee with a shiny, smooth black abdomen, fuzzy yellow thorax, and dark iridescent wings.

Carpenter Bees

Close-up view of a powderpost beetle with elongated body, hard exoskeleton, and narrow head.

Powderpost Beetles

What is a Wood-Destroying Insect Report (WDI)?

A Wood-Destroying Insect (WDI) Report is an official document that identifies the presence of wood-damaging insects in a home or commercial property. This includes termites, carpenter ants, carpenter bees, and wood-boring beetles. Our experienced technicians perform a thorough inspection of the entire property, covering the garage, basement, attic, and exterior areas. Every space with exposed wood is carefully examined to ensure no signs of insect activity are overlooked.

Are Termite Inspections Required for Mortgage Loans?

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) require a termite and wood-destroying insect inspection performed by a certified pest control provider for new home financing. In Wisconsin, all homes purchased with HUD or VA loans must pass this inspection to receive final loan approval.

Many private lenders are also recognizing the value of these inspections. Be sure to check with your lender to see if a wood-destroying insect inspection is required. Even when it’s not mandatory, scheduling an inspection is a responsible step for homeowners, helping to protect your investment and prevent costly damage.