What's a Wood destroying organism?
When we talk about WDIs in the home services sector, we’re referring to a variety of insects that consume or damage wood to exist. A wood damaging organism is any organism that damages the structural integrity of wood (WDO). Some examples include termites, wood-boring insects, and fungi such as dry rot and wet rot.
Some of the WDI’s that can be found in Long Island are:
1. Termites: Termites are a type of insect that may cause considerable structural damage to wood structures. Because they reproduce quickly and are exceptionally persistent creatures, they are difficult to eliminate once a colony has been established.
2. Wood-boring beetles: The beetle’s larvae feed on wood and are responsible for the majority of the damage. When the beetles reach adulthood, they chew through the surface of the wood to create exit holes, which they subsequently use to exit the structure.
However, there are also plenty of other creatures that aren’t as well-known but may be found on Long Island. (Like carpenter ants)
What’s expected during a WDI’s Inpection?
The inspector will prepare a report, same as he would during a regular home inspection. In this situation, the WDO Inspection report will detail any apparent signs of active insect or other organism infestation, as well as recommendations for resolving the problem.
Who pays for WDO repairs when buying a house: the buyer or the seller?
While certain home inspection results are negotiable, faults that jeopardise the structural integrity of the home are normally covered by the seller. This is especially true if the home’s future sale is subject to a condition. A selling contingency that includes a house inspection prior to closing (a common contingency) permits buyers to walk away if repairs are not made. This isn’t true for every sale, so consult with your agent or a real estate attorney.