Ah yes, the dreaded FHA appraisal inspection. I think the only reason it’s dreaded is because most people don’t know what the heck the appraiser is looking for during these inspections. Although the appraiser is looking for many different items, the main concern is SAFETY. Keep that in mind as you’re preparing your home for an FHA refinance or sale.
Here are the six most common issues that come up during an FHA inspection. Check these super simple items off the list before the inspection and you can avoid delaying your closing or refinance by days, weeks….even months!!!
#6 – Frayed or Exposed Electrical Wiring – This is often overlooked because it seems so obvious, right? However, little things like missing light switch/outlet covers happens all the time. Make sure to screw those things back into the wall when you’re done painting! For you do-it-yourself electricians out there make sure open j-boxes are covered. Most exterior outlets require weatherproof covers as well.
#5 – Roof Condition / Leaking – Essentially the roof should be doing what it’s there to do: stopping all moisture from entering the house. Technically the roof must have at least two years of life remaining, so make sure it looks nice and pretty for the appraiser.
#4 – Hot Water Heaters – Have you gone tankless yet? If not, never fear! Just make sure there are two straps bracing the water heater on the lower and upper thirds. While you’re back there make sure the temperature pressure relief valve and overflow pipes are present. (Not to freak you out or anything but check out what can happen if that TPRV isn’t working properly…)
#3 – Chipped and Peeling Paint – Was your home built prior to 1978? If so you cannot have any chipping or peeling paint present on the premises. Get our your scraper and repaint those areas. I’ve even seen some lenders freak out about chipping paint on homes built after 1978. If there’s just a little chipping paint somewhere, do yourself a favor and take care of it.
#2 – Missing Carbon Monoxide Detectors – Every home which is to be occupied by humans must have a carbon monoxide detector (aka CO, aka the odorless gas). Do you have a fossil fuel burning appliance, heater, fireplace, or attached garage? Definitely get one of these. For more information about where to install the detector click here.
#1 – Utilities Must Be Turned On – Drum roll please……make sure the power is on! This is usually an issue in homes that are vacant. It never hurts to double check! The appraiser will check for functioning plumbing, heating units, central air, running hot water, gas stove burners, lighting, outlets, etc.
Remember, the appraiser will be looking for many items but these are the most common cause for re-inspection. Get all of this stuff squared away and you’ll be ahead of the curve.
I hope you found this helpful! If you have any other questions please send me a message. I’m happy to help!
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