When obtaining a mortgage or a mortgage guarantee to finance the purchase of a home, You most likely will be required to obtain a WDO inspection by the bank, the mortgage company, or the guarantor (FHA, VA, HUD, etc.). Although commonly referred to as a "termite inspection," WDO stands for "wood-destroying organism," and a proper WDO inspection looks for evidence of infestation by termites (both subterranean and dry wood types), wood decay, wood- devouring beetles, as well as evidence of past infestations, damage to wood, or conditions conducive to infestation; and evidence of past treatments.