Verify plans and specifications. You can use our proposed construction exhibit list for this. Specifications must include both the builder's and the purchaser's (if any) signature. No NOV should be issued unless complete plans and specifications, including the builder's certification, have been received. The file copy of the plans and specifications will be submitted to VA along with the NOV and an original of the appraisal.
1. Under federal law, new construction located in a special flood hazard area is precluded from any government financing unless the lowest habitable level is elevated above the level of the flood zone. (see VA Lender's Handbook, sections 10.06 and 11.12)
2. Under federal law, new construction cannot be located in an airport crash zone. (see VA Lender's Handbook, section 11.12)
3. If the property is located in a new subdivision, the reviewer must verify that any offsite improvements affecting the property have been completed, dedicated and accepted or have been covered by an acceptable city bond or escrow. The main concern it to assure that the roads connecting the subject property to a public road are completed, dedicated and accepted at no cost to the homeowner. If the property is located in a planned unit development, this is part of the PUD certification process. If this is not evident at the time of review, the SAR checks off item 16 on the NOV form.
4. The reviewer must make sure that the builder has completed all required approval requirements. Builder approval can be checked using the CondoPudBuilder website.
5. When the appraisal is completed using plans and specifications the appraisal must include a certification, signed by the appraiser, stating:
I hereby certify that the information contained in ___(identify plans and specs)___ was used to arrive at the estimate of reasonable value noted in this report.
(VA Lender's Handbook, section 11.11)
