Local Building Codes & Termite Regulations

WDI (Wood-Destroying Insect) Reports

What it is: Official inspection documenting presence or absence of wood-destroying insects including termites

When required:

• Many states require for property sales
• Often required for mortgage approval
• May be required for refinancing
• Requirements vary by state and county

Who performs: Licensed pest control professionals

Cost: Typically $75-300 depending on property size

Validity: Usually valid for 30-90 days

Treatment Requirements

If termites found:

• Some jurisdictions require treatment before sale
• Others allow seller/buyer negotiation
• Treatment must be documented
• Warranty may be required

Varies by: State law, local ordinance, lender requirements, purchase agreement

Disclosure Requirements

Sellers must disclose:

• Known termite infestations
• Previous termite damage
• Previous treatments
• Structural damage from termites

Consequences of non-disclosure: Legal liability, transaction cancellation, damages

New Construction Standards

International Building Code (IBC) requirements:

• Pre-treatment of soil before foundation pour
• Wood-to-soil clearance minimums
• Ventilation requirements for crawl spaces
• Moisture barriers and drainage

Varies by: State adoption of IBC, local amendments, regional termite pressure

Treatment Standards

If treatment required:

• Must use EPA-approved products
• Licensed applicators required
• Proper application methods specified
• Documentation and labeling required

Inspections: May be required to verify compliance

High-Termite-Pressure States

Gulf Coast & Southeast: Stricter requirements due to termite risk

• WDI inspection often mandatory for sales
• Treatment required if found
• Stricter building code requirements
• More frequent inspections recommended

Examples: Florida, Louisiana, Georgia, Texas, South Carolina

Moderate-Pressure States

Mid-Atlantic & Midwest: Moderate requirements

• WDI inspection may be required
• Treatment negotiable
• Standard building code compliance

Examples: Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, Ohio

Lower-Pressure States

Northeast & Mountain West: Fewer requirements

• WDI inspection less common
• Treatment not typically required
• Standard building codes apply

Examples: New York, Massachusetts, Colorado, Montana

Pest Control Applicator Licensing

Requirements vary by state:

• Most states require licensing for pesticide application
• Training and testing required
• Continuing education often mandatory
• License renewal annually or biannually

Verify: Check state licensing board for applicator credentials

WDI Inspector Qualifications

Typically required:

• Licensed pest control professional
• Specific training in WDI inspection
• Knowledge of local building codes
• Liability insurance

Verify: Ask for credentials and license verification

How to Research Your Area

• County Building Department: Building code requirements
• State Pest Management Board: Licensing and standards
• Real Estate Agent: Transaction requirements
• Mortgage Lender: Loan requirements
• Local Health Department: Health and safety codes

Questions to Ask

• Is WDI inspection required for property sales?
• If termites found, is treatment mandatory?
• What building code standards apply?
• Are there pre-treatment requirements for new construction?
• What warranty/guarantee is required?
• How often should inspections be performed?

For Property Buyers

• Request WDI inspection early in purchase process
• Understand local requirements before making offer
• Budget for treatment if needed
• Verify seller's disclosure accuracy
• Ensure lender requirements are met

For Property Sellers

• Disclose all known termite history
• Obtain WDI inspection proactively
• Address issues before listing
• Maintain treatment documentation
• Understand local disclosure requirements

For New Construction

• Verify pre-treatment was performed
• Obtain documentation of treatment
• Ensure building code compliance
• Verify proper ventilation and drainage
• Request warranty information