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FHA Appraiser
Scott Burton has been FHA approved for over 20 years. You can look up an appraiser's approval FHA status here FHA Loans are prevalent due to limited other low down payment financing options. FHA Mortgages allow higher loan to value ratios and have less stringent underwriting requirements as compared to many conventional mortgages. However, they do require additional property requirements. Typically FHA appraisals are used for: FHA Required Repairs
CHIPPING PAINT Any damaged or chipping paint must be repaired for homes built prior to 1978 as it may contain lead. We most often find this on fascia boards, & window trim, especially on the south & west sides of structures. Tips for a finalized repair inspection: Do not omit repairing damaged paint on fences and outbuildings. All damaged paint within the lot borders is required to be repaired. Do not leave paint chips or damaged wood from the repair on the ground. Do not omit painting any bare wood with two coats of non lead based paint. The paint protects the wood. ROOF DAMAGE Wear, worn shingles, curling/missing shingles, missing drip rails, evidence of leaks (typically brown spots on ceilings, or under eaves). TERMITE DAMAGE OR SOFT WOOD. A termite/pest report is not automatically required, but obvious damage and any active infestation is required to be repaired. A clear section 1 termite report might be required by an FHA appraiser or lender if damaged or soft wood is noted. Bathroom floors, wood under sinks, and exterior trim/siding/fascia boards are common locations. POOLS Empty pools need to be filled in. This is a fall safety hazard. Per HUD, the pool has to be filled in with water and the filter system to be working. A working heater is not required. Check for self closing/latching side gates (or pool fence) to prevent unsupervised children from drowning risk. Many local cities and counties have specific pool fence requirements. BROKEN WINDOWS Broken windows that are a safety hazard need to be repaired. Minor cracks do not have to be repaired. SMOKE & CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS Carbon monoxide detectors are required for all floor levels, including basements. Read the directions on from the manufacture about placement of C02 detectors, but generally, one is needed per floor level, near bedrooms. A carbon monoxide detector is needed for any home with an attached garage regardless even if the home is all electric. We recommend stand alone Carbon Monoxide Detectors with a 10 year battery life even if the home has one attached to its security system. This is to ensure compliance even if the service contract for the security system is not maintained. Working smoke detectors are required. Typically one per bedroom, one in hallway outside sleeping areas on all floor levels, living/family rooms. New units with 10 year battery life are recommended. WATER HEATER STRAPS Use double straps specifically made for water heaters, install them per the instructions. WATER HEATER TEMPERATURE PRESSURE RELIEF (TPR) VALVE Do not omit running the TPR valve discharge pipe outside structure to current code. UTILITIES NOT ON, APPLIANCES/MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT We are required to test all mechanical equipment (heater, A/C, hot water, appliances, commodes) prior to close of escrow. Test and repair before the appraisal inspection to avoid a re-inspection fee. OTHER Any other items that risk the safety of the occupants or the security and marketability of the structure. Typically cosmetic repairs are not required (worn flooring, carpet). Worn/chipping/flaking paint is required to be repaired (anywhere on site) if the home was built before 1978. A working stove is not required. Not sure if a particular repair may be required? Please contact us to discuss.
FHA Appraiser home page Resource for FHA approved appraisers. Links to training, & appraiser roster status. Good source for finding the license number for an approved FHA appraiser.
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