Physical Structure Check by Appraiser

The appraiser checks for defective paint, such as chipping, peeling, or scaling surfaces. For homes built before 1978, this is a strict safety requirement due to the risk of lead-based paint. The appraiser must note the location of defective paint on both interior and exterior surfaces, including fences and outbuildings, and require repair. Even for homes built after 1978, the appraiser must verify that exterior surfaces are free of defective paint that exposes the subsurface to the elements, as this affects the physical preservation of the structure. Repairs typically involve scraping and painting.

The appraiser must observe the foundation and perimeter of the buildings for visible evidence of wood-destroying insects, such as termites, carpenter ants, or beetles. While the appraiser is not a licensed pest control specialist, they check for obvious signs like mud tubes or damaged wood. If they see evidence of active infestation or prior treatment, they must require a comprehensive inspection by a qualified pest control specialist. In certain geographic areas prone to termites, a pest inspection might be mandatory regardless of whether the appraiser sees specific evidence during their walk-through of the property.

Similar to the attic, the appraiser must visually observe the crawl space if it is safely accessible. They check for evidence of excessive dampness, standing water, or insufficient ventilation, which can lead to mold or structural rot. They also look for debris or trash that should be removed. The space must be adequately vented and free of vermin. If the appraiser observes structural support issues or plumbing leaks within the crawl space, these must be reported as deficiencies. If the area is inaccessible, they must report this, potentially triggering a requirement for a third-party inspection.

The appraiser is required to visually observe the interior of the attic, provided it is safely accessible. They are not required to move insulation or personal items that obstruct the view. During this inspection, they look for evidence of deficient conditions such as water stains on the underside of the roof, lack of ventilation, or the smell of mold. If they find issues like a leaking roof or structural damage, they must report these conditions. If the attic is not safely accessible, they must report this limitation, which might necessitate a third-party inspection.

The appraiser must check the plumbing system to ensure it supplies water with adequate pressure and effectively removes waste. This involves flushing toilets and operating a sample of faucets to check for flow and drainage. They check for foul odors that might indicate sewage issues and look for observable leaks or structural damage under sinks. Additionally, they verify that the water heater is equipped with a temperature and pressure-relief valve to prevent explosions. If the property uses a septic system, they observe the field for signs of failure like standing water or odors.

The appraiser examines the electrical system to ensure it is adequate to support typical household functions without disruption. They look for visible hazards like frayed wiring or exposed wires in the living areas, garage, or basement. They generally operate a sample of lighting fixtures, switches, and receptacles to verify they work. While they do not dismantle the electrical panel, they report if the amperage or panel size appears inadequate for the home’s size. Any observable hazards or malfunctions must be reported and typically require repair or a detailed inspection by a licensed electrician.

The appraiser must verify that the home has a permanently installed heating system capable of automatically heating the living areas to at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit. They will turn on the system to ensure it provides healthful and comfortable heat and is safe to operate. The system must rely on a fuel source that is readily obtainable in the geographic area and have market acceptance. If the system is non-functional or unsafe, such as having a cracked heat exchanger or improper venting, the appraiser must note this as a deficiency requiring repair to meet minimum property standards.

Yes, the appraiser is required to operate and observe the performance of the home’s mechanical systems, including heating, plumbing, and electricity. They must verify that these systems are safe to operate, protected from destructive elements, and have adequate capacity for the property. For example, they will check that the furnace provides heat, the water heater has a pressure-relief valve, and the electrical panel is adequate. If a system is damaged, not functioning, or appears unsafe, the appraiser must report the deficiency and condition the appraisal on necessary repairs or further inspection by a qualified professional.

The FHA requires the appraiser to observe the roof to determine if it is functional and durable enough to protect the home. The roof covering must prevent moisture from entering the home and provide reasonable future utility. Specifically, the roof must have a remaining physical life of at least two years. If the roof shows signs of leakage, significant wear, or has less than two years of life remaining, the appraiser must report this. In such cases, the appraisal will likely be made subject to repair or a professional inspection by a roofer to ensure the home remains protected.

The appraiser is required to verify that the foundation is structurally sound and adequate to support the weight of the dwelling. During the visual inspection, the appraiser looks for observable evidence of structural failure, such as significant cracking, bowing foundation walls, or uneven settlement that could compromise the integrity of the building. If the foundation appears damaged, unstable, or shows signs of continuing settlement, the appraiser cannot simply approve the property condition. Instead, they must report the deficiency and will often require a detailed inspection by a licensed structural engineer to ensure the home remains safe and serviceable.