FHA Inspection Checklist

By Sari R. Updated on 6/9/2017

Qualifying for an FHA loan for your new home must first satisfy a strict FHA inspection, including criteria for health, safety, and security. These inspections are a supplement to the FHA-approved appraisal. 

Use this FHA Inspection Checklist to familiarize yourself with what the appraiser will look for in property requirements and considerations. 

You can also see a visual of this checklist here:  FHA Inspection Infographic.

Structural Inspection Considerations

During an FHA inspection, the property will be evaluated for any potential problems in the home’s foundation, walls, floors, roof, paint, and drainage. 

Roofs will be reviewed for any missing or broken shingles, and signs of leaking. The inspector will also verify that the grading does not allow for standing water to accumulate around the property.

Mechanical Issues

FHA-approved appraisers will inspect the mechanical systems of the home.  They'll look for any malfunctioning or irreparable problems with the electrical, heating, and plumbing. 

Inspectors will verify that the switches and outlets are functioning, and that wiring is not tattered, improperly secured, or exposed. Although the FHA does not require that the home possesses a functional air conditioning unit, home heating must be operational. 

For plumbing, inspectors will verify that hot water is accessible and that no issues exist including leaks or insufficient water pressure. Additionally, any toilets, sinks, bathtubs, and showers must be functional at the time of the inspection.

Miscellaneous Items

Several factors are examined in addition to mechanical and structural considerations. For example, homes with pools must demonstrate that the pool pump is functional and that the water is safe. Moreover, inspectors will ensure that no infestations, whether rodent or insect, exist on the property. 

All doors and stairs must be in place and secure, and any well or septic system must also be functional.

Mandatory Repairs

Structural damage, standing water, malfunctioning or inoperable mechanical systems, and substandard paint surfaces must be repaired prior to FHA loan approval. Additionally, these repairs must be completed by a licensed or registered worker and must be verified by an FHA-approved appraiser or another qualified party.

FHA Inspection Checklist of Specific Issues

Roof

Must be capable of keeping moisture out of the home, and must be in a condition that requires no immediate maintenance. Mandatory repairs to the property’s roof must be performed by a roofer that receives approval from the lender.

Attic

Must be dry and free of any infestation of vermin, including mice, rats, or bats. Additionally, the attic space must be readily accessible.

Crawl Space and Foundation

Must be accessible, and measure a minimum of 18 inches deep from the bottom of the floor beams. It must be free of vermin and relatively dry. The foundation will be examined for large cracks or accumulation of moisture.

Utilities, Sewage and Water Heater

The property’s utilities, including water and gas, will be examined to ensure that they are free of leaks. If the utilities are turned off during the inspection, they will be evaluated once they are turned back on. 

Sewage pipes will be given only a cursory visual inspection unless the inspector suspects that a problem exists, in which case a more thorough evaluation will be conducted. 

Installation and operation of water heating units must comply with local building codes. Water heaters must be nonadjustable in terms of water temperature and include pressure release valves. Rented water heaters are not accepted.

Heating System

The home’s heating system must be in working condition and provide heat to all rooms in the property. If the property is heated by heating stoves, the inspector will verify that these stoves can keep every room at a minimum temperature of 50 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Wood stoves or furnaces must have chimneys that are in good condition, and wood stove chimneys must have chimney liners and be free of buildup.

Electrical System

The property’s electrical system must be able to produce a minimum of 60 amps. The home’s circuit or fuse box must be in satisfactory condition with no exposed wires. Any knob-and-tube wiring will be examined to ensure that it is in acceptable condition. Outlets will be tested to maintain proper grounding and outlets within two feet of water sources must be ground fault interrupt (GFI) outlets.

Property Exterior and Grounds

The exterior of the home must be in satisfactory condition, with no major blemishes or potholes on either the sidewalks or the driveway. Lawns must provide acceptable drainage. Windows and siding must be in good condition, with no broken or cracked glass.