Crawl Space Scuttle

[Jen Quinn]

Quick question for all you FHA/VA/USDA appraisers: If a crawl space access panel is screwed shut, do you unscrew it yourself, or condition the report to have it opened for inspection? The same goes for the panels that cover water heaters in manufactured homes. I have a Realtor freaking out at me because both crawl space access panels were screwed shut and I made it a condition of the report that it be opened. She thinks I should have just done it myself. I don't carry a drill with me. Does anyone else? Aside from that, there was a missing switch plate that I had to condition for, so the re-inspection trip is inevitable. But I was just wondering if anyone else has come across this.

 

[CANative]

Reschedule the inspection for a time when there is access.

These are the types of questions that are contained in the 4000.1. And if I remember correctly, you asked an attic/crawlspace question the other day. The answer is in the same section of the handbook.

 

[bnmappraisal]

Personally I usually carry a phillips and flat head hand screwdriver (no drill/battery) with me on inspects along with a ladder/3 step ladder

I don't run into many screwed shut scuttles and/or crawl spaces, but when I do, the screwdrivers come in handy.

Personally, if I cannot access them that way, then I would condition it to be made accessible at time of (re)inspection

Thankfully that has not happened in a long time, but that's how I would handle it ... business decision IMO

 

[andrew81]

i take a photo of the sealed access and discuss it. complete the appraisal as is and let the underwriter decide if they require it. sometimes they do sometimes they dont.

 

[Yellow Fin]

About a week ago, I had the similar situation. I took the photo (there were several blue screws mounted around the access) and disclosed it in the report (with few other conditions) why I wasn't able to access the crawl space.

 

[CANative]

Pardon me. The 4000.1 doesn't use that exact protocol any longer. That was the old handbook.

The attic requirement still contains the requirement to reschedule.

k. Attic Observation Requirements
The Appraiser must observe the interiors of attic spaces.
The Appraiser is not required to disturb insulation, move personal items, furniture, equipment or debris that obstructs access or visibility. If unable to view the area safely in their entirety, the Appraiser must contact the Mortgagee and reschedule a time when a complete visual observation can be performed, or complete the appraisal subject to inspection by a qualified third party. In cases where access through a scuttle is limited and the Appraiser cannot fully enter

 

[Jen Quinn]

Reschedule the inspection for a time when there is access.

These are the types of questions that are contained in the 4000.1. And if I remember correctly, you asked an attic/crawlspace question the other day. The answer is in the same section of the handbook.

I was really asking this one more as a "how are my peers dealing with this situation" kind of question, not as a 4000.1 kind of question. While I am perfectly capable of unscrewing 4 screws, should I? What if they are bolts instead of screws, should I carry a socket set with me as well as screwdrivers? What if the screws are painted over? What if they are flat-head, and I strip one while I am unscrewing it? Should I carry spares with me?
It really wasn't a letter of the law kind of question. I know that this is subjective, I was just looking for input as to how other appraisers do things. You guys are 99% of my peer contact and I appreciate the knowledge and advice that you are willing to share.

 

[Jen Quinn]

About a week ago, I had the similar situation. I took the photo (there were several blue screws mounted around the access) and disclosed it in the report (with few other conditions) why I wasn't able to access the crawl space.

That's what I did as well. Thanks.

 

[Renee Healion]

I am always happy in summer to see the access painted shut. I have screwdrivers too but I don't use them on other people's property. I would like to complain about paying for liability coverage, not about using it.

Suggestion--When you set the appointment, stress that the attic or whatever needs to be made available in time for your appointment. Say if it is not accessible for you that you will have to reschedule and charge for your time. Tell them you are trying to avoid inconvenience and added charges.

 

[Jen Quinn]

I am always happy in summer to see the access painted shut. I have screwdrivers too but I don't use them on other people's property. I would like to complain about paying for liability coverage, not about using it.

Suggestion--When you set the appointment, stress that the attic or whatever needs to be made available in time for your appointment. Say if it is not accessible for you that you will have to reschedule and charge for your time. Tell them you are trying to avoid inconvenience and added charges.

That's a good idea. I did tell the Realtor that I would need access to the attic and crawl space. She assumed that just meant the area around it needed to be clear. I carry a ladder and a pry bar with me. Technically I have screw drivers on my leatherman tool, but I don't use them on other people's houses either.