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HUD HOC Reference Guide
Basements and Crawl Spaces
Chapter 1
Appraisal & Property Requirements
Page 1-25
A: Basements: Basements must be examined for dampness or wetness, any obvious structural problems and the condition of the furnace, hot water heater or other components located there.
- Sump Pumps in Crawl Space and Basement Areas: Sump pumps are acceptable to HUD provided that they are properly functioning at the time of appraisal. A sump pump may be hard-wired by an acceptable wiring method or may have a factory electrical cord which is to be connected to a receptacle suitable for such use. The receptacle must be located to allow connection to the factory wiring without the use of an extension cord. Note: A sump pump is not a cure-all. If there is significant incurable ponding of water in basements or crawl spaces, the underwriter may elect to reject the property.
B: Crawl Spaces: General Requirements HUD Handbooks 4905.1 REV-1, 2-14 & 2-11 and 4150.2, Section 3-6A11 - In order to ensure against conditions which could cause deterioration to the building and seriously affect the marketability of the property, it is required that:
- There must be adequate access to the crawl space.
- The appraiser will enter the crawl space at a minimum entry of the head and shoulders to observe conditions, except when access is obstructed, when entry could damage the property, or when dangerous and adverse situations are suspected.
- It is highly recommended that the minimum height of a crawl space be 18 inches from the bottom of the joists.
- The crawl space must be clear of all debris.
- The crawl space must not be excessively damp and must not have any water ponding.
- The crawl space must be adequately ventilated, providing positive airflow with no dead air space. A vapor barrier is not typically required; however, if moisture problems are evident, a vapor barrier should be required.
- Please see: HUD Handbook 4150.2, Section 3-6A.11,& HUD Handbook 4905.1, Rev-1.
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