ICN#: 10359AR013

Wood Destroying Organisms

This report includes a structural pest inspection embedded within the report. All observations in this report that begin with WDO are a part of a WA State Pest Inspection. Orca Inspection Services LLC employs Dylan Chalk, Licensed Structural Pest Inspector #65540. Please note that most WDO observations are related to high moisture conditions that could be conducive to mold-like substances. Orca Inspection Services LLC is not a mold specialist and recommends consulting with an industrial hygienist or other mold remediation expert if concerned about mold or indoor air quality.Inspection Standards in Washington State - WAC 16-228-2045 - REQUIRES THAT A DIAGRAM / DRAWING BE PREPARED FOR WOOD DESTROYING ORGANISM (WDO) REPORTS. IF THE PHOTOS AND DESCRIPTIONS IN THIS REPORT ARE INADEQUATE, A DRAWING IS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST.

Visible Evidence of Active Wood Destroying Insects Present

Visible Evidence of Inactive Wood Destroying Insects None noted

Visible Evidence of Active Wood Decay and Fungi Present

Visible Evidence of Damage from Wood Destroying Organisms None noted

Visible Evidence of Conditions Conducive to Wood Destroying Organisms Present

Major Concerns

  • Pests and Wood Destroying Organisms:

    Moisture ant damaged wood was noted in a localized area of the building - see below the entry porch in the pony wall - west side of crawl space. Moisture ants are a wood destroying organism that indicate there is a problem with wet wood. They will often form nests and tunnels and can damage structural wood. Once repairs are made to eliminate the moisture sources, the ants typically go away, so treatment is rarely needed. In this case, live ants were found suggesting that the water problems require repair. Damaged sheathing was noted. This is a tricky spot where concrete is installed over the sheathing at the entry porch. I recommend additional inspection by a qualified contractor - repair as recommended.

Repairs

  • Pests and Wood Destroying Organisms:

    Wood and cellulose storage was noted in the crawl space. This can encourage wood destroying organisms. Removal of all cellulose debris from the crawl space is recommended to eliminate conditions conducive to wood destroying organisms.

  • Exterior/Garage:

    The gutters have been installed closer than 1 inch to the siding. The manufacturer of this siding recommends a 1 inch gap between the gutter and the siding. The current installation does not comply with recommended manufacturers installation requirements. Repair as needed to comply with installation requirements.

  • Exterior/Garage:

    Inadequate kick-out flashings were noted between the roof and wall junctures. These are important to divert water away from the siding and onto the roof to prevent water from running behind the siding. Hire a qualified contractor familiar with siding installation to further evaluate and repair.

  • Exterior/Garage:

    Visual inspection of the fiber cement siding installation showed the need for repairs as well as some installation details that are not consistent with modern manufacturers installation requirements. This is typical for this age of construction. Some of the items noted can be repaired or improved, while others simply are the way they are until a larger re-siding is needed. Consult with a qualified contractor to further investigate the siding and repair as recommended to prolong the useful life of the siding. Examples of observations noted during inspection include:

    • Missing back flashings at butt joints - these flashings can be retrofit on exposed sides of the building with metal flashing tabs or maintained with caulking.
    • Siding run right to the horizontal flashing and sealed. This is not recommended but difficult to fix at this point.
    • The hole in the siding at the north side should be sealed
  • Exterior/Garage:

    The wooden door jamb material is rotting at its base near the threshold - see south crawl space access door. This condition risks hidden water damage to the floor and framing around the door. Repair / replace damaged wood as needed.

  • Grounds:

    All trees, branches and vegetation should be pruned at least six feet away from the building to eliminate a condition conducive to wood destroying organisms and a path for rodent entry.

Monitors

  • Pests and Wood Destroying Organisms:

    Dead carpenter ants were noted during inspection today - see same location behind porch as the active moisture ant issues. No live ants were found during inspection, but a treatment may be needed. There is always a risk of hidden structural damage or a hidden moisture problem when there have clearly been carpenter ants in the home. Inquire with the seller for a history of repairs and treatment and monitor for large black ants. If ants are found, have the property evaluated and treated by a licensed pest control operator.