Wood-destroying organisms can affect a home in ways that are not obvious during a walk-through. I look for visible evidence of wood-destroying insects, damage, and conditions that may encourage activity in areas I can access. I explain what I observe and identify areas I could not inspect, so you can understand what the findings do—and do not—establish. I’m Darren Buckley, a Washington-licensed home inspector (#966), an InterNACHI Certified Professional Inspector, with a construction background. I work for you, not for a transaction or repair company.
What I examine during a WDO inspection
I look for signs of wood-destroying organisms, related damage, and conducive conditions. Depending on access, I may observe damaged wood, insect evidence, moisture concerns, wood touching soil, or drainage and clearance issues. I document relevant findings and approximate locations; I cannot establish what is concealed behind finishes or otherwise out of view.
This is a visual assessment, not a guarantee that organisms or damage are absent. Finishes, stored belongings, insulation, and tight clearances can hide evidence. I identify inaccessible or excluded areas and explain whether additional access or evaluation may help.
How I explain findings and possible next steps
My report describes findings and locations, including visible damage, activity evidence, or conducive conditions. A condition that may encourage a problem does not prove an active infestation, and visible damage cannot establish how far it extends behind finishes. I can explain observations and suggest qualified follow-up for remaining questions.
I inspect, but I do not treat pests or repair homes I inspect. Consult a licensed pest-management professional about identification and treatment. For possible structural impact, ask whether a qualified contractor or structural engineer should assess it. My report is not a treatment proposal, repair estimate, or engineering opinion, and does not authorize engineering work.
How to prepare for my appointment
Please arrange access to the property and areas you want considered. Move personal items only when safe and practical; do not open walls, remove finishes, or take electrical covers apart. Tell me about prior pest activity, repairs, leaks, or hard-to-reach areas. That history helps me focus, but cannot replace observation of accessible conditions.
A typical inspection takes two to three hours, depending on the property, and I encourage you to attend. I can point out findings and review the report, inspection limits, and questions for specialists. Schedule through my online scheduler, or call (360) 620-8946 or email [email protected] about fit, access, or timing.
Where I provide WDO inspections
I serve Kitsap and Pierce Counties, the Olympic Peninsula, and Puget Sound communities including Port Orchard, Gig Harbor, Bremerton, Silverdale, Tacoma, Poulsbo, and nearby areas. For other locations, contact me to discuss scheduling. The property and available access shape what I can observe.
Questions before you book
Does a WDO inspection confirm that a home is free of pests?
No. I report evidence visible in accessible areas on the inspection date. Concealed conditions may not be visible, and no visible evidence is not a guarantee of absence.
Will you treat an infestation or repair damaged wood?
No. I work for you as the inspector and do not repair homes I inspect or provide pest treatment. Consult a qualified pest professional about treatment, or a contractor or structural engineer about possible damage. My report is not a repair estimate or engineering opinion.
Can I use this report for a sale or refinance?
Washington has specific licensing and report requirements for complete WDO reports for real estate transactions, including an inspection control number. Tell me the purpose before booking and ask me to confirm whether I can provide the required report. Do not assume a general inspection or other WDO visit meets your lender’s requirements; confirm those directly with your lender.
Have a question about a WDO inspection or what to make accessible? Call me at (360) 620-8946, email [email protected], or schedule online. I can discuss the service and access arrangements before the appointment.
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