Technically, the VA doesn’t require borrowers to have a home inspection, but they do highly recommend it. If you know that the home passes the inspection, chances are you’ll have good luck with the VA appraisal, which is somewhat similar to a VA inspection.
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The VA appraisal has certain requirements it must meet in order for the borrower to secure VA financing. The VA calls it the Minimum Property Requirements. If you know ahead of time that the home doesn’t pass the MPRs, you’ll know right away that you have to either find a different type of financing or find a different home.
So what does the home need to pass the VA home inspection? We provide a list below.
The Soundness of the Home
A home with VA financing must be sound. In other words, its structure must be safe. There shouldn’t be any cracks in the foundation or the roof must not be leaking. The soundness of the construction lets the VA know that the home is should uphold well for at least the next few years. The inspector may find little issues wrong with the walls, floors, or foundation, but if anything major is found, you’ll likely want to look elsewhere.
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The Safety of the Home
Is the home safe? In other words, are there holes in the walls, missing handrails, or flooring that isn’t even? Anything that poses a risk of danger will not pass the VA’s Minimum Property Requirements. This includes things like electrical or plumbing problems. Anything that could potentially start a fire or a flood in the home isn’t considered safe and would be difficult to get by the VA.
Water and Sanitation
The water in the home must be clean and safe to drink. The sewage and water heater also must be working properly. If the home operates on public water, there isn’t much else the inspector must look at, but if it’s on well and septic, it must be in good working condition, as the inspector will inspect it.
Pest Issues
The VA won’t let a veteran buy a home with pest issues. If there are termites, carpenter bees or other pest damage, it must be fixed before a veteran can buy the home. The VA may require a pest inspection in addition to the regular inspection, but making sure the home is clear of any pest damage ahead of time can help the home sell faster.
The VA has their Minimum Property Requirements in place in order to help veterans. They want you to buy a home that is structurally sound. While it might seem like overkill to have an inspection and an appraisal, it helps you to know that you are getting a home in good condition. You can focus your finances on paying the mortgage and getting settled in your home in the meantime.
