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Home Inspection Checklist for VA Loans
What to arrange, and what the appraiser and inspector look at, when buying with a VA loan.
A real, editable checklist below — tick, tap a line to rewrite, drag to reorder.
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Many real estate agents recommend lining up an inspector as soon as you're under contract. The VA doesn't require a traditional home inspection, only an appraisal that checks its Minimum Property Requirements. Certain specialized inspections can still be required, such as private water and, depending on location, pests. A home inspection goes deeper and typically costs $300 to $500. The inspector will typically spend at least two hours, and the report usually arrives within a few business days. This list covers what to arrange and what the appraiser and inspector look at. It isn't lending advice. Talk through repairs and requirements with your loan officer.
Why these items are on the list
- Book an inspector at contract. Many agents suggest having one lined up as soon as you're under contract.
- Check your inspection contingency. It sets the timeframe, and lets you ask for repairs, a lower price, or walk away.
- Ask agent and loan officer for names. Recent buyers among friends and family are another source.
- Confirm the inspector's license. Some states require one. Your agent can tell you your state's rules.
- Ask for a sample report. Look for clear writing, photos of problems and recommendations. Missing any is a warning sign.
- Ask the fee up front. Fees vary by provider, home size and location. HUD gives a typical range of $300 to $500.
- Decide whether to inspect first. Some buyers inspect before paying for the VA appraisal, so they avoid that cost if they reject the property.
- Attend the inspection. It helps you learn the house and its likely problems.
- Check roof and attic. The VA wants roofing that will last, and attics that are accessible and properly vented.
- Test electric, heating and cooling. All three must be working for the property to meet VA requirements.
- Check water supply and sewage. A clean, continuous water supply and safe sewage disposal are required.
- Test a private well or septic. Chase says wells are tested for quality and quantity, and septic for proper function.
- Look at drainage around the house. Water should flow away without ponding. Standing water or poor grading that could cause structural problems raises red flags.
- Inspect the foundation. Cracks, settlement or damage may lead to an appraisal subject to repair.
- Check for termites and rot. The VA requires pest inspections only in certain states and counties.
- Look for lead-based paint. A property must be free of it to meet VA requirements.
- Watch for mold and water damage. Mold can mean water damage, and Veterans United lists it among common repairs.
- Confirm all-weather road access. Dirt roads do not meet the VA appraisal requirements.
- Check flood zone status. A property in a FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area needs flood insurance; if unavailable, it fails VA requirements.
- Verify zoning and permits. Unpermitted additions or code violations can derail approval.
- Note any property-line encroachments. The appraiser must report them, and the issue must be resolved before the loan is approved.
- Inspect a new build too. New doesn't mean built correctly. Shortcuts or wrong materials can still show up.
- Read the report in detail. It covers current condition and likely problems, and usually arrives within a few business days.
- List your must-have repairs. No repairs are generally mandatory. With an inspection contingency, you can end the contract if the seller refuses must-haves.
- Review repairs with your loan officer. Lenders can have their own requirements beyond the VA's.
- Track the Notice of Value date. It is valid for six months after the appraisal and often recommends an inspection.
You can carry the list through the walk-through on your phone and tick off what the inspector shows you. Add your own notes on each item as you go.
When to use it
Use it right after your offer is accepted, once you know the inspection window in your purchase agreement.