Southeast Texas has some of the most aggressive termite pressure in the United States. Subterranean termites, Formosan termites, and other wood-destroying insects thrive in SETX heat and humidity. A WDI inspection is required for VA and FHA loans — and critical for every buyer.
The Gulf Coast climate — humid, warm, and wet — is ideal for wood-destroying insects. Formosan termites alone can destroy a home's structural framing within years of infestation. Every buyer in the Golden Triangle should have a WDI inspection.
The most common termite in Southeast Texas. Colonies live underground and build mud tubes to reach wood above ground. Evidence of tubes, swarmers, and damaged wood documented in all accessible areas.
Formosan subterranean termites are one of the most destructive invasive species in the United States — and highly prevalent in coastal Southeast Texas. Larger colonies and more aggressive feeding than native species.
Old house borers, powderpost beetles, and other wood-boring insects attack structural lumber, hardwood flooring, and furniture. Exit holes and frass (waste material) are documented during inspection.
Wood-destroying insects follow moisture. High moisture wood — from leaks, condensation, or grade issues — attracts and sustains infestations. Moisture contributors are identified as part of the WDI evaluation.
Visible structural damage from WDI activity — damaged sill plates, floor joists, wall framing, and roof components — is documented and photographed for your report and any required remediation estimates.
FTGU provides the official Texas WDI report form accepted by VA, FHA, and conventional lenders — documenting current evidence, prior treatment history, and observable damage in the format lenders require.
VA and FHA lenders require a WDI inspection on all properties in high-risk termite areas — and Southeast Texas is among the highest-risk regions in the country. Don't wait for your lender to flag it.
VA loans require a WDI inspection in Texas. Any active infestation or significant damage must be remediated before loan approval. The seller typically bears the cost of treatment.
FHA loans require WDI inspection in designated high-risk termite zones. Southeast Texas is fully within this zone. Active infestation findings must be treated and re-inspected before closing.
Even without a loan requirement, WDI inspection is strongly recommended for every Southeast Texas buyer. Treatment costs run $800–$3,000+. Structural damage repairs are far more expensive.
A WDI inspection is an evaluation — Troy documents evidence of wood-destroying insects, prior treatment, and visible damage. Treatment is performed by a licensed pest control operator. FTGU is also a business partner in Champion Termite & Pest Control if treatment is needed.
The terms are often used interchangeably, but WDI (Wood-Destroying Insect) is the official TREC term. A WDI inspection covers termites, wood-destroying beetles, and other insects — not just termites.
A standalone WDI inspection typically takes 45–60 minutes depending on home size and accessibility. Combined with a full home inspection it adds minimal additional time.
Active infestation findings are documented in the official WDI report. For VA and FHA loans, treatment is required before closing. For conventional and cash buyers, the findings provide grounds to request seller-paid treatment or a price reduction.
FTGU is a business partner in Champion Termite & Pest Control, a licensed pest control company serving Southeast Texas. If treatment is needed following a WDI inspection, we can connect you directly with the Champion team.
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