HANDRAILS

[TC]

Gentlemen/Ladies:

Can anyone quote me chapter and verse the requirements for installing a exterior handrail? I have a split-entry with 3 steps that measure over 24 inches from drive-way level to top step. The LO and seller are fighting me on this one.

Appreciate the help.

TC

 

[Ben Vukicevich SRA]

TC

Go here:

http://www.HUD.gov/offices/reac/pdf/sfa_faqappr.pdf

See Item 26 on Page 8

Ben

 

[Ray Christ]

THE COMMENTS SUGGECT WE HAVE TO TRY A NEW WAY OF COUNTING> COUNT RISERS NOT STEPS. BECAUSE MANY TIME THE TOP PLATFORM IS A STEP AND THAT OPENS THE QUESTION THAT SHOULD BE CLOSED WITH A RISER COUNT.

 

[TC]

Just for general information--the sellers, buyers, agents, and mortgage company flatly refused to install handrails. They called HUD and got written instructions that if there are no local laws governing handrails the condition can be waived. I have a copy of that in my file, just in case.

TC

 

[Dave Doering]

With respect to FHA and VA noncompliance items, it has always been my position that I am only there to observe and report items of noncompliance. I cannot waive any condition, no matter how unreasonable it may seem. However, it has been my experience that depending who the borrower or lender talks to at HUD, anything can be waived. I suppose since it is their rules to make it is theirs to break.

 

[Farm Gal]

TC:

Just for clarification I am going to state that "As the appraiser, you note observed defects and items not in compliance with the 4150 and the FAQ's and you best judgement of health and safety items..."

The UNDERWRITER can waive any or most of those requirements as they see fit, but the appraiser does NOT.

The XYZ#*%$@!!! lawyers are going to do thier best to find a guilty party anyway: make sure it is not you!

 

[TC]

The property in question is a 20 year old split entry dwelling in a cookie cutter plan. Not one other home in the sub-division has a handrail. Personally, I don't think its a hazard at all, no one is that clumsy. But like most appraisers I try to follow the rules. It just saves me having to drive back out there.

TC