Cape Coral is concrete-block country, and homeowners sometimes assume that means termites aren’t a concern. They are. Block homes still have wood trusses, roof decking, fascia, door and window framing, cabinets, and trim, and both subterranean and drywood termites are active year-round in Lee County. Here’s why periodic inspections are worth it.

Early detection

Subterranean termites build mud tubes up foundation walls and into wall cavities to reach wood; drywood termites fly in and colonize attics, window frames, and fascia directly. Both can work for years before damage is visible from inside the house. A trained inspector looks for tubes, frass (drywood termite droppings), damaged wood, swarmer wings, and conducive conditions like wood-to-soil contact and moisture.

Lower repair costs

Localized drywood damage caught early can often be treated and repaired in place. A long-established infestation may require tent fumigation and structural repairs. Subterranean termites require a soil treatment or bait system. In every case, the earlier it’s found, the less it costs.

Safety

Termites compromise structural wood. Damaged trusses, decking, and fascia are a safety issue as well as a repair cost, especially in a wind-prone area.

A cleaner sale

When you sell, the buyer’s lender or the buyer will usually require a Wood-Destroying Organism (WDO) report on Florida’s standard form. A history of inspections and treatment, with paperwork, is a selling point and avoids surprises during the buyer’s inspection period.

How WDO inspections work in Florida

Under Florida law, WDO inspections for real estate transactions must be performed by a state-licensed pest control company, reported on the Florida WDO form (Form 13645). Coastal Home Inspectors coordinates WDO inspections through a licensed pest-control partner so they can be done during your home inspection visit. See termite inspections for details on the types of termites we see in Southwest Florida and what the report covers.

If you’re buying or selling in Cape Coral, request an inspection and ask us to include the WDO.