Navigating FHA Requirements: What You Need to Know

FHA loans can be complex, often leaving many frustrated due to unclear guidelines.

As a Top 3% REALTOR® in the nation, I've compiled a practical "cheat-sheet" of common FHA requirements:

1. Distressed Paint: Pre-1978 homes with deteriorating paint must be professionally scraped and repainted due to potential lead-based paint hazards.
2. Handrails: Installed along open staircases as necessary for safety.
3. Railings: Required around areas where falls could occur, such as decks, patios, and balconies.
4. Hot Water Heater Valve: An extension to prevent accidental scalding must be added.
5. Broken Windows: All damaged windows should be replaced.
6. GFCI Outlets: Often required if within 6 feet of water sources per local codes.
7. Outlets on Fixtures: Replace outlets mounted on light fixtures in older bathrooms and kitchens.
8. Functional Doors: Doors must operate correctly and be replaced if damaged.
9. Security Bars: Must unlock from the interior for safety.
10. Pavement: Appraisers may require replacement for safety concerns.
11. Leaking Roof: Must be repaired or replaced.
12. Leaking Pipes: Leaks must be corrected professionally.
13. Heat Sources: Central heating capable of maintaining 50°F in all areas of the house is required.
14. Flooring: Acceptable floor coverings are necessary; plywood is not acceptable.
15. Mold: Professional remediation is needed for mold issues.
16. Attic & Crawl Spaces: Ensure clear access for appraisers.
17. Crawl Space Height: Minimum 18 inches for proper access.
18. Other Structures: All structures on the property must meet FHA standards.
19. Graffiti: Remove all graffiti for safety reasons.
20. Pools: Local pool safety standards apply.
21. Wall & Floor Surfaces: Ensure appraisers can inspect all surfaces.
22. Water: Functional and producing hot water at the time of inspection.
23. Utilities: Functional during inspection.
24. Exposed Wires: Secure or remove by a qualified electrical contractor.
25. Heaters & Central Air Units: Must be operational during inspection.
26. Windows: Windows painted shut should be made operational.
27. Carpets: Clean or remove soiled carpets affecting livability.
28. Defective Conditions: Defective conditions must be remedied.
29. Missing Appliances: Kitchen appliances should be present and functional.
30. Septic & Well: Accessible for inspection.
31. Roof: Appraiser may call for Roof Certification if nearing end of economic life.
32. Garage Doors: Must reverse if resistance is met.
33. Plumbing: Leaks or corrosion should be repaired by a qualified plumber.
34. Underground Storage Tanks: Must be identified and accessible for inspection.
35. Drainage: Ensure proper grading for drainage.
36. Water Supply & Sewage Systems: Must meet specific requirements.
37. Connection to Public Water/Sewer: Required if costs are reasonable.
38. Domestic Well: Minimum distance requirements must be met.
39. Hazards: Property must be free of known hazards affecting health, safety, and more.
40. Wood Structural Components: Pest inspection required for ground-level structures or wood touching the ground.

Navigating FHA requirements can be daunting, but as your Las Vegas REALTOR®, I'm here to help you understand how these guidelines impact your property transactions.