WDI Inspections

WDI Inspections in Santa Barbara

Protecting Real Estate Investments from Hidden Damage

The real estate market in Santa Barbara is fast-paced and high-value, making the condition of a property a critical factor in any transaction. In our coastal climate, wood-destroying organisms like termites, wood-boring beetles, and fungi are unfortunately common, often thriving unnoticed within the structure of beautiful homes. Whether you are buying your dream home or selling a property you have cherished for years, a comprehensive Wood Destroying Insect (WDI) inspection is the only way to ensure no expensive surprises are hiding behind the drywall or under the subfloor.

At Escalera Pest Control, we know that time is of the essence during escrow. With over 37 years of experience working alongside local real estate agents and homeowners, we provide the accuracy and speed you need to move forward with confidence. Our family-owned business treats every inspection with the highest level of integrity; we don't just look for bugs, we look out for your best interests. You can count on our licensed team to provide clear, honest reports and, if necessary, effective solutions to get you to the closing table.

Need a report for escrow? Call (805) 920-8842 or contact us online for a professional WDI Inspection.

What is a WDI Inspection?

A Wood Destroying Insect (WDI) inspection, often referred to as a "termite inspection," is a specialized evaluation required for most real estate transactions. While a standard home inspector looks at plumbing and electrical systems, they are not typically licensed to identify specific wood-destroying organisms. A WDI inspection focuses strictly on pests and conditions that attack the structural integrity of the wood in a home.

Targeted Pests: The inspection specifically looks for Subterranean Termites, Drywood Termites, Wood-Boring Beetles (such as Powderpost beetles), and Carpenter Ants.
Conditions Conducive to Pests: It isn't just about finding live bugs. The inspector also looks for dry rot (fungus), excessive moisture conditions, earth-to-wood contact, and plumbing leaks that could attract pests in the future.
The "Official" Report: The result is a state-standardized report that categorizes findings. This document is often a requirement for lending institutions (especially for VA or FHA loans) to verify that the asset is sound before they issue a mortgage.

Our Inspection Process in Santa Barbara

At Escalera Pest Control, our process is thorough and systematic. We understand that a WDI report is a legal document that carries significant weight in a property transaction, so we do not cut corners. Our goal is to provide a complete picture of the home’s health regarding wood-destroying organisms.

Visual Examination: We meticulously check the exterior and interior of the property, including easily overlooked areas like crawlspaces, attics, garages, and eaves.
Probing and Sounding: We gently probe wood members to check for hollowness or "softness" that indicates internal termite damage or dry rot that isn't visible on the surface.
Evidence Collection: We look for specific signs such as termite pellets (frass), mud tubes on foundations, exit holes in wood, and live insects.
Clear Reporting: We generate a detailed report that clearly separates current infestations from potential future risks. If issues are found, we provide a clear, no-obligation estimate for the necessary treatments or repairs to help you proceed with the sale.

The Importance of Professional Service

In the high-stakes environment of real estate, skipping a professional WDI inspection or choosing an inexperienced inspector can lead to financial disaster. Termite damage is rarely covered by standard homeowner's insurance, meaning that if an infestation is missed during the buying process, the new owner is often left with the bill for structural repairs that can run into the thousands of dollars.

A professional inspection acts as a safeguard for both parties. For sellers, it identifies issues early so they can be fixed before the home hits the market, preventing deals from falling through at the last minute. For buyers, it provides leverage and peace of mind, ensuring the investment is solid. Furthermore, accurate identification is key; mistaking a harmless beetle for a wood-boring one, or old damage for an active infestation, can complicate negotiations unnecessarily. Only a licensed professional has the training to make these distinctions accurately.

Continue Reading Read Less

"Fast and Easy"
The best part is the bugs are all gone.

- Oliver A.
"Couldn't Be Happier"
They were cheaper than any company that quoted me a price and showed up right on time.

- Zach T.
"Highly Recommend"
Fred and Escalera Pest Control provide honest and professional service at an honest price.

- Claudia A

View All Reviews

Why Choose Us for WDI Inspections

When you are in the middle of a real estate transaction, you need a partner who is responsive, reliable, and respected in the community. Escalera Pest Control has been the partner for Santa Barbara and Ventura County residents since 1985. We combine the efficiency required for escrow with the honest, family-based values that have kept us in business for decades.

Fast Response Times: We know escrow timelines are tight. We prioritize scheduling to ensure your report is ready when you need it.
Honest Reporting: Our technicians are ethical and transparent. We never exaggerate findings; we report exactly what is there.
Qualified Experts: With over 35 years of experience, Fred Swetman and our team have seen every type of local infestation, ensuring nothing is missed.
Full Service: If problems are found, we don't just report them; we can fix them. From eco-friendly treatments to a 3-year warranty on whole-house termite treatments, we offer the solutions needed to clear the property.
Local Trust: We are a trusted name among local realtors and homeowners, known for our 5-star customer service and clean-cut, professional presence.

Secure your investment today—Call (805) 920-8842 or contact us online for professional WDI Inspection service.

Understanding Your Report: Section 1 vs. Section 2

When you receive your WDI report, the findings are generally divided into two specific categories. Understanding the difference is crucial for negotiations.

Section 1 items: These are items where there is evidence of an active infestation or infection. This includes live termites, beetles, or fungus (dry rot). Lenders almost always require these items to be treated and repaired before the loan is funded.
Section 2 items: These are conditions that are conducive to infestation but where no active infection currently exists. Examples include a plumbing leak, wood touching the dirt, or cracks in the stucco. While not always mandatory to fix for the loan, addressing these prevents future headaches and damage.

FAQs About WDI Inspections

How quickly can I schedule a WDI inspection in Santa Barbara?

Most clients can schedule a WDI inspection within a day or two. For urgent real estate transactions, we often provide same-day appointments, depending on availability. We know timelines are tight in Santa Barbara closings, so we work flexibly with agents and homeowners. When you reach out, our team will explain the next available openings and do our best to meet your schedule.

What does your WDI inspection include for local homes?

Each inspection includes a review of your home’s structure, especially spaces at high risk for pest activity in Santa Barbara—crawl spaces, attics, substructures, and wood-to-soil contacts. We check for termites and other wood-destroying insects, document our findings with photographs, and provide a report that’s clear and lender-ready. Because of local pest challenges, we emphasize the problem areas most common here, giving you the most complete picture possible.

Are your inspection methods safe for my family and pets?

Yes, all of our inspection and treatment methods are safe for families and pets. We use eco-friendly, low-toxicity solutions that meet residential safety and environmental standards. You will never have to worry about harsh chemicals in or around your living spaces. We always discuss treatment plans with you before proceeding and provide options that fit your comfort and health requirements.

Can you help with reports needed for real estate transactions or escrow?

Yes, our WDI inspection reports are designed to meet the needs of Santa Barbara agents, lenders, and escrow officers. We ensure reports are formatted and delivered in line with FHA, VA, or other lender requirements as needed. Our experience with local real estate processes allows us to deliver documentation that supports fast, barrier-free closings for our clients.

Do you offer any warranties after termite treatment?

We provide a written three-year warranty with every full termite treatment we complete in Santa Barbara. This warranty covers your property against future infestations for the duration, supporting both home value and peace of mind. If you have questions about the coverage, we are happy to explain details and how to maintain your warranty benefits over time.

Continue Reading Read Less

Why Choose Us?

Honest Technicians
Termite Warranty
37 Years Experience
Family Owned & Operated
Free Estimates

We Get Bugs!

Request Your Appointment Today

First Name
Please enter your first name.
Last Name
Please enter your last name.
Phone
Please enter your phone number.

This isn't a valid phone number.
Email
Please enter your email address.

This isn't a valid email address.
Address
Please lookup your address.
Are you a new customer?
Please make a selection.
How can we help you?
Please enter a message.
By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from Escalera Pest Control at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Acceptable Use Policy