The Complete Guide to VA Loan Home Inspections

Purchasing a home is likely the biggest investment you’ll ever make That’s why it’s so important to fully understand the property you’re buying before signing on the dotted line. This is especially true for Veterans using their VA home loan benefits

One of the best ways to get an in-depth look at a home’s condition is through a professional home inspection, But what exactly does a home inspection entail for a VA loan? What should you look for in an inspector? And when’s the best time to schedule one? This guide has all the details,

Overview of VA Loan Home Inspections

While not required, a home inspection is highly recommended for VA borrowers. It provides an independent, unbiased assessment of the home’s physical condition from top to bottom.

The inspector will thoroughly evaluate things like:

• Structural elements
• Roof, attic, basement, and crawlspaces
• Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems
• Potential safety issues or code violations

This helps identify any repairs needed or negotiate with the seller on your behalf before closing. It also ensures the home meets the VA’s minimum property requirements (MPRs).

Now, you might be wondering how a home inspection differs from the VA appraisal. While the appraisal determines the home’s value and MPR compliance, an inspection is much more comprehensive.

The appraiser only visually evaluates the accessible areas of the home. An inspector will do a hands-on review of each system and component, often using specialized tools and testing methods.

So in short – an inspection is not required for VA financing but provides extra protection beyond the appraisal alone.

When to Schedule the Home Inspection

Aim to get the inspection done as soon as possible once your offer is accepted. This gives you enough time to review the results and negotiate repairs or credits with the seller before closing.

Most purchase agreements allow 7-10 days to complete the inspection after going under contract. But it’s best to get it scheduled right away, as top inspectors tend to book up quickly.

You also want to avoid delays between the inspection and closing. Any new issues that pop up with the home after the inspection will fall on you as the buyer to address.

As for the appraisal, this can be done before or after the inspection. If you opt for an inspection first, you preserve your appraisal fee in case there are major deal-breaking problems uncovered.

Choosing the Right Home Inspector

Not all home inspectors offer the same quality of service. You want someone experienced who will provide a thorough, unbiased assessment. Here are a few tips for picking the best inspector:

• Get references from recent homebuyers. Reach out to friends, family, coworkers, and your real estate agent for recommendations.

• Verify licenses and certifications. Most states require inspectors to hold certain licenses. Look for additional credentials like InterNACHI certification.

• Check for membership in trade organizations. Membership in the ASHI, NAFI, or other groups indicates ongoing education and adherence to industry standards.

• Read online reviews. Pay attention to factors like the inspector’s communication skills, professionalism, equipment used, and attention to detail.

• Ask about their process. A thorough inspection typically takes 2-3 hours including checking the attic, crawlspace, roof, and all systems.

• Request a sample report. The report should be comprehensive yet easy to understand, with photos and clear descriptions of any findings.

• Compare multiple quotes. Pricing can range dramatically based on your market and the home’s size and age. Get at least three quotes.

What’s Inspected with a VA Home Inspection

A standard home inspection covers several major areas. While inspectors may not check every nook and cranny, they will assess any issues that could impact living comfort, safety, or budget down the road.

Here are some of the main systems and components examined:

Exterior

• Roof condition and estimated remaining life
• Gutters, downspouts, and drainage
• Siding, trim, paint, windows, and doors
• Front and rear decks, patios, walkways
• Grading and drainage around the foundation

Structure

• Foundation walls, floors, ceilings, and roof for cracks or water damage
• Floor joists, beams, posts, and load-bearing walls
• Attic framing, ventilation, insulation, and signs of leaks

Plumbing

• Water supply and distribution pipes, pressure, and drainage
• Fixtures like faucets, showerheads, toilets, and sinks
• Water heater tank, connections, valves, ventilation, and drain pan
• Fuel lines and shut-off valves if gas water heater
• Sump pump and sewage ejector pump if present

Electrical

• Main service panel, wiring, breakers, and grounding
• Outlets, switches, and light fixtures
• Operation of GFCI and AFCI outlets
• Hardwired smoke, CO alarms, and security system

HVAC

• Heating and cooling equipment type and age
• Thermostats, ductwork, registers, filters, and ventilation
• Pipes, pumps, and condensation drain lines
• Chimneys and gas appliance vents

Interiors

• Walls, ceilings, and floors for cracks or water stains
• Windows and doors for function and weather-sealing
• Built-in appliances like garage door openers and ceiling fans
• Fireplace damper, flue, and combustion air supply

Garage

• Floor, walls, ceiling, and fire separation from the home
• Overhead door function and safety pressure reverse
• Automatic opener safety sensors and auto-reverse

Kitchen & Bathrooms

• Cabinetry and countertops
• Sink plumbing and function
• Toilet operation and tank/bowl stability
• Tub and shower enclosures, plumbing, ventilation
• Exhaust fan operation and venting

This covers the basics, but a good inspector will check out much more. They’ll also assess potential safety hazards like loose railings, exposed wiring, faulty step treads, and more.

It’s a great idea to join them for the inspection. You can get a hands-on lesson in your home’s systems while the details are fresh.

What to Do if Problems are Found

It’s common for an inspection to uncover at least a few minor issues. But what happens if there are larger, more costly problems?

First, review the full inspection report and get any clarification needed from the inspector. They can explain the findings and help you understand what repairs are most pressing.

If the problems are significant, you have a few options:

• Request the seller make repairs. This is ideal, but sellers aren’t obligated to fix everything noted. Decide which issues are deal-breakers to pursue.

• Negotiate credits or a lower price. If repairs would be extensive, see if the seller will agree to a credit at closing to help offset the costs.

• Terminate the contract. If the home has major red flags, like foundation or roof problems, withdrawing may be your best option to avoid an ongoing headache.

• Proceed with repairs after closing. For minor issues or upgrades you’d prefer to handle on your own, get repair cost estimates and factor them into your budget.

No home is perfect, but a seasoned home inspector can keep undesirable surprises from derailing your home purchase. For VA loan borrowers, an inspection brings valuable peace of mind.

Knowing a home’s true condition allows you to make an informed decision, negotiate from a position of strength, and rest easy in your new investment. Consult with your lender to learn about available financing options for repairs that may be needed down the road.

VA Minimum Property Requirements

Beyond the standard home inspection, VA-financed properties must also meet the Department of Veterans Affairs Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs). These ensure the home is safe, structurally sound, and sanitary.

Some key requirements include:

• Adequate roof, foundation, and major systems
• Continuous water supply with appropriate plumbing and fixtures
• Reliable sewage disposal method
• No wood destroying insects, dry rot, or lead-based paint hazards
• Proper ventilation and accessibility to attics and crawlspaces

The MPRs are assessed during the mandatory VA appraisal process. But a home inspection provides further assurance that a property meets or exceeds these minimum standards.

Home Inspection Checklist

When reviewing your home inspection report, keep an eye out for any of the following common problem areas:

Roof

• Damaged, curling, or missing shingles
• Leaks, water stains, or excess moss buildup
• Flashing issues around chimneys, vents, and valleys
• Skylights, saddles, or other roof penetrations in disrepair

Attic

• Lack of ventilation or insulation
• Evidence of condensation, moisture, or leaks
• Exposed wiring splices or open junction boxes

Foundation

• Cracks wider than 1/4 inch
• Sign