Hawk Home Inspection
Termite and wood-destroying insect inspection — Northwest Indiana

Termite & Wood-Destroying Insect Inspection

Termites cause more than $5 billion in U.S. property damage every year — and most infestations go undetected for years. Our certified WDI inspection protects your investment. Official NPMA-33 reports accepted by all lenders.

Schedule WDI Inspection(219) 730-5463

Protecting Homebuyers From Hidden Damage

A termite inspection — formally known as a Wood-Destroying Insect (WDI) inspection — is a systematic evaluation of a property for evidence of termites and other wood-destroying organisms. Unlike many home defects, termite damage is not covered by standard homeowner's insurance and can cost tens of thousands of dollars to repair.

During the inspection, our certified inspector examines all accessible areas of the property — basement, crawl space, attic, sill plates, floor joists, decks, porches, and exterior perimeter. We identify active infestations, past damage, mud tubes, frass (insect droppings), and the conducive conditions that leave a property vulnerable to future attack.

Following the inspection, we issue an official WDI report on the NPMA-33 form. This report is accepted by all mortgage lenders including FHA, VA, and conventional loan programs, and is a standard requirement for real estate transactions throughout Indiana.

Termite and wood-destroying insect inspection — Hawk Home Inspection
What We Inspect
Wood-Destroying Organisms
Subterranean Termites
The most destructive wood-destroying insect. They build mud tubes from soil to wood and can silently damage a home for years. Active year-round below the frost line.
Drywood Termites
Live entirely inside wood without soil contact. Identified by small piles of pellet-like frass (droppings) near exit holes in wood surfaces.
Carpenter Ants
Don't eat wood but excavate smooth tunnels for nesting. Infestation often signals existing moisture damage. Can cause significant structural weakening over time.
Wood-Boring Beetles
Leave round or oval exit holes in wood. Several species attack structural lumber, hardwood flooring, and furniture. Can reinfest the same wood repeatedly.
Conducive Conditions
We document conditions that invite future infestation: wood-to-soil contact, improper grading, excessive moisture, standing water near the foundation.
Warning Signs — Inspect Now
  • Mud tubes on foundation walls, piers, or crawl space
  • Hollow sound when tapping wood structures
  • Discarded termite wings near windowsills or doors
  • Small round holes in wood with fine powdery frass
  • Doors or windows that suddenly stick or warp
  • Visible wood damage, buckling, or dark discoloration
  • Lender requires a WDI report (FHA, VA, or conventional)
  • No termite inspection in the past several years
Common Questions

Termite Inspection FAQ

Is a termite inspection required to buy a home in Indiana?

FHA and VA loans require a Wood-Destroying Insect (WDI) inspection before closing. Many conventional lenders and purchase contracts in Indiana also require one. Even when not contractually required, a WDI inspection is strongly recommended — termite damage is not covered by standard homeowner's insurance.

What is a WDI report and what does it cover?

A Wood-Destroying Insect report (issued on NPMA-33 form) documents evidence of active infestation, past damage, and conducive conditions found during the inspection. It covers subterranean termites, drywood termites, carpenter ants, and wood-boring beetles. The report is accepted by mortgage lenders, real estate agents, and title companies throughout Indiana.

How long does a termite inspection take?

Most termite inspections take 30–60 minutes depending on property size. We inspect all accessible areas including the basement, crawl space, attic, exterior perimeter, decks, porches, and all wood structural components. We do not rush — a thorough inspection is essential.

Are termites common in Northwest Indiana?

Yes. Eastern subterranean termites are found throughout Indiana and are active in the Northwest Indiana region. While spring swarms are the most visible sign of activity, subterranean termites remain active underground year-round and can cause significant damage before ever being noticed.

Can I combine a termite inspection with a general home inspection?

Yes. Many buyers order both a general home inspection and a WDI termite inspection simultaneously. Hawk Home Inspection can coordinate both services, saving you time and simplifying your due diligence process. Contact us to discuss bundled inspection options.

Where We Serve

Serving All of Northwest Indiana

We serve communities across Lake County, Porter County, and LaPorte County. Click your city for local inspection information.

Dyer, INValparaiso, INCrown Point, INHammond, INGary, INMerrillville, INMunster, INHighland, INSchererville, INPortage, INMichigan City, INChesterton, IN

Don't see your city? Call us — we cover a wide area.

Protect Your Home Before Termites Do

Termite damage is not covered by homeowner's insurance. A WDI inspection before closing is your best protection. Free estimates available.

Schedule WDI Inspection(219) 730-5463