Once a seller has accepted your offer on a home, it’s time for the VA appraisal. During this process, a VA-approved appraiser will assess the property’s value to determine how much a lender will finance. A VA appraisal should not be confused with a home inspection, as these are distinct stages in the VA loan process. The home inspection is optional and can determine a home’s existing or potential issues, while the VA appraisal is a required step in the VA loan process and ensures that a property meets all of the Minimum Property Requirements established by the Department of Veteran’s Affairs.
VA Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs)
The Department of Veterans Affairs implements a set of minimum property requirements (MPRs) to ensure that homes financed by VA loans are safe, structurally sound, and sanitary investments for Veterans and military families. These MPRs are assessed during the VA appraisal process, which is carried out by an independent VA-appointed appraiser. Understanding the distinction between a VA appraisal and a home inspection is important. Though not a requirement, home inspections are highly recommended for VA homebuyers, while VA appraisals are a mandatory step in the process.
During the VA appraisal, the appraiser will evaluate the property, ensuring it meets all applicable MPRs. Notable MPRs to keep in mind include:
- Working electric, heating, and cooling systems
- Adequate roofing
- Sufficient sizing for basic living necessities
- Clean, continuous water supply
- Sanitary facilities
- Lead-based paint-free surfaces
- The absence of wood-destroying insects, fungus, and dry rot
- Safe and sanitary sewage disposal
- Accessibility from an all-weather public or private street
- Attics and crawl spaces must be accessible and properly vented
A complete list of VA MPRs can be found below in the VA appraisal checklist. These requirements cover various aspects of location, infrastructure, and safety and are designed to create a secure environment for homeowners. The VA will not approve the loan if a home does not meet these MPRs. However, in some cases, the VA may consider waiving MPR repairs or permitting the borrower to address the repairs after the loan closes.
VA Appraisal Checklist
Property Access
- The property must have access from a public or private street with an all-weather surface.
- Private streets must have a permanent easement and be maintained by an HOA or joint maintenance agreement.
- Each living unit must have independent access without trespassing on adjoining properties.
- Rear yard must have independent access without passing through any other living unit.
- Adequate space between buildings for exterior wall maintenance.
Property Characteristics
- The property must be a single, readily marketable real estate entity.
- The primary use of the property must be residential.
- Non-residential use must not exceed 25% of the total gross floor area.
- Each unit must have suitable living, sleeping, cooking, and dining facilities.
- Shared facilities such as laundry, storage, and heating are allowed in 2-4 unit buildings.
- Utilities (water, sewer, gas, electricity) must be independent for each unit.
Mechanical Systems
- Mechanical systems must be safe, protected from destructive elements, and of adequate capacity and quality.
- Heat must be adequate for healthful and comfortable living conditions.
- Wood-burning stoves must have a conventional system to maintain at least a 50-degree temperature in plumbing areas.
- Solar systems must have a backup system that provides equivalent utility.
- Unvented space heaters and fireplaces must meet additional requirements set by VA or the LAPP Lender.
- Each unit must have adequate electricity for lighting and necessary equipment.
Water and Wells
- Each unit must have a continuing supply of potable water and domestic hot water.
- Connection to public water is required whenever feasible.
- Water quality must meet local health authority or EPA guidelines.
- Shared wells must be capable of producing adequate water for each property simultaneously.
- Permanent easements and well-sharing agreements are required for shared wells.
- Community wells must meet health department approval.
- Approved cisterns are accepted when public water is not available.
Sanitary Facilities and Sewage
- Each unit must have sanitary facilities and a safe method of sewage disposal.
- Connection to public sewer is required whenever feasible.
- Individual and community sewage disposal systems must operate properly.
- Pit privies are permitted if customary and installed according to local health authority requirements.
Roof and Ventilation
- The roof must prevent moisture entry and have at least five years of remaining useful life.
- Adequate natural ventilation is required in attics and crawl spaces.
- Crawl spaces must have proper access, ventilation, and be clear of debris.
- Floor joists in crawl spaces must allow access for maintenance and repairs.
Defective Conditions
- Conditions impairing safety, sanitation, or structural soundness must be corrected.
- This includes defective construction, poor workmanship, excessive dampness, leakage, decay, settlement, termites, and other issues.
- Lead-based paint must be corrected on homes built prior to 1978.
Hazards
- The property must be free of hazards that may affect health, safety, or the customary use and enjoyment of the property.
- Hazards include subsidence, flood, erosion, and proximity to high-voltage electric transmission lines and gas or petroleum pipelines.
Other Requirements
- Compliance with local zoning ordinances and building codes.
- Compliance with local housing and planning authority code enforcement.
- All units must have access to safe drinking water, sewer, gas, and electricity.
- Appropriate water supply, sanitary facilities, and sewage disposal for each unit.
- Compliance with special requirements for manufactured or modular homes.
- Consideration of potential environmental problems, mineral reservations, and airport proximity.
What is the difference between a VA loan appraisal and inspection?
A VA loan appraisal is performed by an independent VA appraiser to determine the value of the property and assess its compliance with the VA’s minimum property requirements. The appraisal is primarily focused on assessing the property’s value for the loan.
On the other hand, a home inspection is not required by the VA but is often recommended as an additional layer of protection for the homebuyer. A home inspection is conducted by a licensed home inspector who assesses the property’s overall condition, including the structure, roof, HVAC system, and other components. The home inspection is more comprehensive and aims to identify potential issues or defects in the property.
What happens if the VA inspection fails during the appraisal process?
Suppose the VA inspection determines that the property does not meet the VA’s MPRs. In that case, the property is not considered safe, structurally sound, or sanitary enough to qualify for a VA loan. The VA will only approve the loan on that property if the issues identified in the inspection report are resolved.
The borrower has a few options when the VA inspection fails:
- The property owner can agree to make the necessary repairs to bring the property up to the VA’s MPRs. Once the repairs are completed, a re-inspection will be conducted to ensure compliance.
- The borrower can request a waiver of the MPR repairs from the VA if the property is deemed safe, structurally sound, and sanitary enough to be occupied. The lender and the VA must agree to the waiver, and it’s often helpful to provide an inspection report from a licensed professional to support the request.
- The borrower may look for another property that meets the VA’s MPRs.
How difficult is it to pass the VA inspection?
The difficulty of passing the VA inspection depends on the condition of the property and its compliance with the VA’s minimum property requirements. If the property is well-maintained, meets the safety standards, and is in good overall condition, it is more likely to pass the inspection without any issues.
However, if there are significant issues with the property, such as structural problems, safety hazards, or major defects, it can be challenging to pass the VA inspection. Repairs or remediation may be necessary to bring the property up to the required standards.
It’s important to note that the purpose of the VA inspection is to ensure that the property is safe and suitable for the borrower. While it may involve some requirements and potential challenges, its goal is to protect the homebuyer’s interests and ensure they purchase a property that meets specific standards.
What will make a VA inspection fail?
A VA inspection may fail if the property does not meet the VA’s MPRs. Some common reasons for a VA inspection to fail include the following:
- Structural issues: Significant structural problems, such as foundation issues, severe cracks, or unstable construction, can result in a failed inspection.
- Safety hazards: Safety hazards, such as faulty electrical systems, unsafe stairways, or inadequate smoke detectors, can lead to a failed inspection.
- Sanitary concerns: Issues with water supply, sewage disposal, or sanitation facilities can cause a failed inspection. This includes problems with the water source, plumbing, or improper sewage disposal systems.
- Major defects: Any significant defects that affect the property’s habitability, soundness, or value can result in a failed inspection. This may include issues like extensive water damage, mold, or significant pest infestations.
- Non-compliance with local building codes: The property may fail the VA inspection if it does not meet the local building codes or zoning requirements.
It’s important to address any issues identified in the inspection report to ensure the property meets the requirements for a VA loan.
In conclusion, while a home inspection is not mandatory, understanding the VA’s minimum property requirements and the need for a comprehensive appraisal process is crucial for prospective homeowners seeking VA loans. By obtaining a home inspection and an appraisal, you can ensure that your dream home is indeed a safe, sound investment.
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