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Archive for June, 2019

FHA Inspections

Jun 29, 19 • News

Those of you who know me understand that I rarely have a good word to say regarding all things governmental. That said, the FHA surprised me last August by eliminating their in-house approval process for FHA inspectors and requiring that those doing FHA inspections be certified by the International Code Council as R-5 Residential Combination Inspectors, as I have been for over 20 years.

The approval process in the past was minimal. The inspector had merely to “prove” (read: claim) three whole years construction experience and be in possession of a feckless license to do business from the Texas Real Estate Commission. This ensured that whatever was being inspected, it was being scrutinized by know-nothings. ICC Combination Inspectors look for compliance with local building codes as well as specific HUD requirements.

When a person applies for an FHA/HUD/VA/USDA loan it is usually because they cannot qualify for a conventional loan. This person also typically does not have the means to foot the bill for any major repairs required due to the typical and widespread lackluster Texas home builder performance. These folks need protection and the FHA has finally taken a step in the right direction for providing this to their borrowers.

Kudos to the FHA Commissioner for doing the right thing.