FHA Appraisal Checklist
FHA Appraisal Checklist can make or break an FHA approval — here are the 2026 rules and the numbers that matter.
The rule for 2026
FHA appraisers verify working utilities, a roof with 2+ years of life, safe access to attic/crawlspace, no peeling paint (pre-1978 homes), functional heat, and no health-and-safety hazards.
FHA sets this baseline, but approved lenders can add stricter "overlays." Meet the FHA standard first, then confirm whether your lender layers anything on top.
Documentation you'll need
- 30 days of pay stubs and two years of W-2s or tax returns
- Two months of bank statements
- Photo ID and Social Security number
- Letters of explanation for any credit events or large deposits
FHA periodically revises its requirements. Join the notification program to be alerted before changes affect your file.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- FHA Appraisal Checklist — what's the bottom line for 2026?
- FHA appraisers verify working utilities, a roof with 2+ years of life, safe access to attic/crawlspace, no peeling paint (pre-1978 homes), functional heat, and no health-and-safety hazards.
- Do all lenders apply this the same way?
- No. FHA sets the floor, but individual lenders may require higher credit scores or stricter terms.