Understanding Specific and Complete Wood Destroying Organism (WDO) Inspection Reports: An Opinion from the Washington State Pest Management Association 

As professionals in the pest management industry, it is essential to grasp the differences between specific and complete Wood Destroying Organism (WDO) inspection reports. These reports not only serve distinct purposes but also adhere to specific regulations outlined by Washington Administrative Code (WAC). Below, we provide our insights into these inspections to aid pest management companies and technicians in navigating their responsibilities effectively.

Specific Wood Destroying Organism Inspection Reports (WAC 16-228-2060)

A specific WDO inspection report is crucial when preparing an on-site proposal or estimate for pest management measures aimed at preventing or controlling WDOs. Here are the key aspects to consider:

1. Context of Use: These reports are not required when pest management activities are being conducted under existing warranties and are strictly for on-site proposals or estimates.

2. Limitations: It’s important to note that a specific WDO inspection report cannot be utilized for real estate transactions, such as sales or refinancing. This restriction must be clearly stated in bold print or a prominent format within the report.

3. Report Structure: The report can be in any written format, provided that it includes identifiable elements such as:
   • The name of the owner or representative requesting the inspection
   • The date of the inspection
   • The complete address of the inspected structure
   • The name of the inspector and their WSDA license number

4. Findings: The report must document any identified signs of infestation or presence of WDOs, including:
   • Descriptions of infestations and their approximate locations illustrated on a diagram.
   • Identification of conditions conducive to infestations, especially for moisture ants, dampwood termites, wood infesting beetles, or wood decay fungi.

5. Diagrams: A diagram is required to depict findings, showing the approximate locations of any WDOs or signs of infestation. While not required to be to scale, it must convey necessary information effectively.

6. Record Keeping: These reports must be maintained on file for a minimum of one year.

Complete Wood Destroying Organism Inspection Reports (WAC 16-228-2045)

In contrast, a complete WDO inspection report is more comprehensive and is necessary for any real estate transactions or when solicited via telephone. Here are the key points to understand:

1. Context of Use: This report is mandatory when identifying damage, infestation, or conditions conducive to infestation during a sale, exchange, or refinancing.

2. Report Structure: Similar to the specific report, a complete report must be identifiable and include:
   • A unique WSDA inspection control number (ICN)
   • The date of the inspection
   • The parties involved in the transaction
   • The complete address and inspector details

3. Findings: The report must detail:
   • Any damage or infestation by WDOs.
   • Conditions conducive to infestations must be explained in narrative form, alongside suggestions for remediation.

4. Diagrams: Essential to a complete report, diagrams must illustrate the locations of damage, infestations, and any inaccessible areas, with annotations for clarity.

5. Record Keeping: Complete reports must be retained for four years, with availability upon request from the WSDA.

6. Licensing Requirement: It is illegal for any business to conduct complete WDO inspections without a valid company license from the director. The licensing application must include details about the inspectors, company information, and unique identifiers.

Key Differences Between Specific and Complete WDO Reports

Both specific and complete WDO inspection reports are integral to pest management, but they serve different functions. Here are the primary distinctions:

• Purpose: Specific reports are for on-site proposals or estimates, while complete reports are required for real estate transactions.
• Usage Restrictions: Specific reports cannot be used in real estate transactions, whereas complete reports are necessary for such contexts.
• Detail Level: Complete reports require more extensive findings and documentation, including damage assessments, conducive conditions, and a unique WSDA ICN.
• Retention Period: Specific reports must be maintained for one year, while complete reports must be kept for four years.

Examples

• Specific WDO Inspection Report Example: A pest management technician inspects a residential property and finds signs of termites. They provide a specific report to the homeowner for an estimate on treatment, clearly noting that it cannot be used for a real estate transaction.

• Complete WDO Inspection Report Example: During the sale of a property, the buyer requests a complete WDO inspection. The technician identifies not only termite damage but also conditions conducive to future infestations, documenting everything in a complete report with the necessary WSDA ICN.

In conclusion, understanding the specific requirements and distinctions between these two types of reports is vital for pest management companies and technicians. Adhering to these regulations ensures compliance and promotes effective service delivery to clients.

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Washington State Pest Management Association and is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal inquiries or concerns, please consult a qualified attorney. The regulations mentioned are provided below for reference: