Smoke And Co Detectors

[NJ Valuator]

AMC states that appraiser is required to test for FHA since it is a health and safety issue.

 

[GA Benny]

So test it. What's the problem?

The FHA handbook does not specifically require smoke or CO detectors, but it is left up to the opinions of the appraiser, and ultimately the mortgagee, to determine if the property meets MPRs, including health and safety. There is certainly nothing that prohibits testing the smoke and CO detectors, whether technically required or not.

 

[Mr Rex]

The Appraiser must observe the physical condition of the plumbing, heating and electrical systems. The Appraiser must operate the applicable systems and observe their performance. If the systems appear to be damaged or do not appear to function properly, the Appraiser must condition the appraisal for repair or further inspection.

 

[Tru Red]

Please explain how "testing the functionality of a smoke or carbon monoxide alarm" contributes to the appraiser's opinion of value (for which he/she is trained and was hired to perform)? Oh wait....a $20 non-functioning carbon monoxide alarm could be adjusted for in the grids. (sarcasm). An appraiser should not be doing the job description of a home inspector and vice-versa.

 

[Tom D]

how do you test a carbon monoxide detector? they always work when i was there on a refi, except when there aren't the required amount. most of the time on sales, one of them is missing, nice $150 fee for a $30 multi detector required by city 'health department'. realtors used to give the buyer the new detectors at settlement. always find it funny when the agent tells me they didn't know where their placements should be.

 

[Tru Red]

how do you test a carbon monoxide detector? they always work when i was there on a refi, except when there aren't the required amount. most of the time on sales, one of them is missing, nice $150 fee for a $30 multi detector required by city 'health department'. realtors used to give the buyer the new detectors at settlement. always find it funny when the agent tells me they didn't know where their placements should be.

And if an appraiser does test the carbon and/or smoke alarms and the house burns down or the occupants die from carbon monoxide poisoning.....guess who gets a lawsuit against them? Appraisers should not be required to test these devices.

 

[glenn walker]

This is such a old conversation on the forum -- Depending on State ( CALIFORNIA ) push the test button and if it-beeps you have a good batteries... That is all you can do !

 

[Howard Klahr]

guess who gets a lawsuit against them?

Please identify a single lawsuit against an appraiser over this issue. If not, then stop with the chicken little imitation.

 

[Tim The Enchanter]

Yes, the sky fell years ago.

 

[Tru Red]

Please identify a single lawsuit against an appraiser over this issue. If not, then stop with the chicken little imitation.

Read this. (Assuming you can read.) Then keep on doing whatever you are doing. http://appraisersblogs.com/smoke-detectors-appraiser-liability