Wood Destroying Organism (WDO) Home Inspection Practice Exam

What type of inspection is crucial for detecting wood-destroying organisms?

1. Aerial inspection

2. Visual inspection

3. Thermal inspection

4. Moisture meter inspection

The correct answer is: Visual inspection

A visual inspection is essential for detecting wood-destroying organisms because it allows the inspector to observe signs of infestation or damage directly. During this type of inspection, various indicators can be identified, such as frass (sawdust), exit holes, and softened wood, which all suggest the presence of pests like termites, carpenter ants, or wood-boring beetles. Visual inspections are typically conducted by thoroughly examining areas susceptible to infestations, such as basements, crawlspaces, attics, and around wood structures. The inspector looks for visible damage to wood, as well as conditions conducive to infestation, such as moisture accumulation and wood-to-soil contact. By relying on visual cues, inspectors can provide an accurate assessment of the potential issues related to wood-destroying organisms. While thermal inspection and moisture meter inspections can be useful supplementary tools to assist in identifying moisture problems or hidden infestations, they do not replace the direct observations made during a visual inspection. Aerial inspections, on the other hand, are not suitable for detecting organisms affecting wood within structures, as they primarily focus on exterior views and may not accurately reveal interior conditions.