Are Gutters Required For a VA Loan?

Homeowners often take gutters for granted until it’s time to get on the roof and clear the leaves or deal with water drainage issues. Part of the VA loan application process is ensuring that a property passes the VA appraisal and inspection process. That’s where having working gutters comes into play.

Appraisers use “the three s’s” to determine if a property is safe, structurally sound, and sanitary. Before interested homebuyers can purchase a property, the home must be repaired in accordance with the three s’s, as well as other Minimum Property Requirements (MPR) set by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Let’s take a look at how gutters can impact the appraisal of a home being purchased under a VA loan.

Why Are Gutters Helpful to Have?

Over the life of a loan, there are two water-related issues that homeowners never want to see: an underwater mortgage and water damage. Structurally speaking, water damage can start from a small leak that escalates, leading to pricey and mandatory repairs. One of the best defenses against water damage is having a proper gutter system. 

An appraiser will look to ensure that gutters are present and in good condition, and directing water away from the foundation of the house. If the gutter system is not up to par, the VA appraiser may note the gutters portion of the appraisal as “subject to” repair. Also, keep in mind that an appraiser analyzes a property to determine the overall value of the house. Having an inefficient or damaged gutter system detracts from the overall value of the house. 

Gutters are the exterior arteries (or intestines) of the house. Gutter damage can be a silent killer for foundations, and a damaged foundation can severely impact a home’s value. Gutters also drain water away from the roof. A residential roof can last between 15 and 30 years. However, when gutters are clogged, the roof will sustain continuous damage every time it rains. Furthermore, all of the maintenance that you put into your grass, gardens, or backyard entertainment area will be for naught if you allow your gutters to clog. Clogged gutters will cause water to spill out and wash away your plants. Puddles that pool in the middle of your lawn may also require you to replant grass that is too damaged to continuously grow. 

What Gutter Requirements Are Set by the VA?

If you’re applying for a VA loan, you may be wondering, “Are gutters required?” Gutter requirements set by the VA are used to determine if a property meets the criteria set by the three s’s. The gutters and downspouts must be properly attached to drain water away from the foundation. An appraiser will do an inspection of the siding on the home and note if it is in good shape. 

If a home is found to have pooling water that results in damage to the home’s structure or siding, a loan denial could ensue. That’s why gutters for a VA loan home purchase are so important. 

How Can Hero Loan Help You?

Our veterans and active-duty service members have provided us with invaluable services that better our lives. At Hero Loan, we recognize that they deserve specialized attention. Our mission to help military borrowers purchase the home of their dreams efficiently and transparently is the cornerstone of our family-style business model. Our team of friendly lending experts use a face-to-face approach to help our veterans qualify for a loan in less than five minutes. And with closing periods in as little as 14 days, we make the path to homeownership a fast one. There’s no need to worry about the hassle of paperwork, as we have streamlined our services from start to finish. 

Minimum Property Requirements, including guttering requirements, are a real part of the VA loan application process. You shouldn’t have to take on the stress of it alone. Allow us to assist you. Call us today at 800-991-6494 to speak with a VA loan representative, or reach out to one of our lending experts, who will be glad to address any inquiries you may have, through our online application.