Property Guide

What Repairs Are Required for FHA?

FHA does not finance homes that fail Minimum Property Requirements — the appraisal checks safety, soundness, and security, not just value. When issues show up, they must be corrected before closing or handled through an approved repair plan. Ryan and Steve coordinate with your agent and appraiser so repair conditions do not surprise you at the finish line.

What FHA Looks For on the Appraisal

The appraiser verifies the home is livable and structurally sound — not move-in ready with a fresh coat of paint everywhere.

{[ ["Safety, soundness, security", "FHA's three pillars — the home must protect occupants, stand up structurally, and be secure from intrusion."], ["Roof and foundation", "Active leaks, missing shingles, or structural movement typically require repair before the loan funds."], ["Utilities must work", "Water, heat, electricity, and sewage must be on and functional at the time of inspection."], ["Access and egress", "Bedrooms need proper exits; handrails, steps, and walkways must be safe."], ["Health hazards", "Peeling paint on pre-1978 homes, mold, broken glass, and exposed wiring are common repair triggers."] ].map(([title, desc], idx) => (

))}

Common FHA Required Repairs

These show up most often on FHA appraisal reports in Indiana and across the Midwest.

  • Peeling or chipping paint on homes built before 1978
  • Roof damage, missing shingles, or active leaks
  • Broken windows, missing handrails, or unsafe stairs
  • Non-functioning HVAC, water heater, or plumbing fixtures
  • Termite damage or active infestation when noted
  • Standing water, drainage issues, or failed septic systems

Before vs After Closing

Most FHA repair items must be completed before funding — but there are exceptions worth planning for early.

  • Safety and health items: usually fixed before closing
  • Seller credits: may cover repairs or a buyer credit at closing
  • Repair escrows: hold funds when post-closing work is allowed
  • Re-inspection: appraiser confirms completed work before release
  • 203(k) renovation: when the home needs more than spot repairs

How We Handle FHA Repair Conditions

Repair flags are common — a clear plan keeps your closing date intact.

{[ ["Review the appraisal", "We read every condition the same day it hits so nothing waits."], ["Price the fixes", "Your agent gets bids or seller concessions lined up quickly."], ["Confirm the path", "Pre-closing repair, escrow holdback, or 203(k) — whichever fits."], ["Clear for closing", "Re-inspection and final sign-off before funds are released."] ].map(([t, d], i) => (

Step {i + 1}

))}

2MG Daily

Recent articles from our blog on FHA property standards and appraisal conditions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Buying FHA and Worried About Repair Conditions?

Ryan & Steve will walk through the appraisal report with you and your agent — so required repairs are scoped, priced, and cleared before closing day.