1. Peeling Paint on Older Homes

Peeling or chipping paint often triggers a repair condition, especially in homes built before 1978.

Why? Because older paint may contain lead. The VA requires any peeling paint to be scraped and properly repainted before closing.

Fortunately, this issue rarely kills a deal. Most sellers can fix it quickly. However, ignoring it can push your timeline back.

2. Roof Problems or Active Leaks

The VA does not require a brand-new roof. However, the roof must have reasonable remaining life and show no signs of active leaks.

Appraisers often flag:

• Visible sagging
• Missing or damaged shingles
• Water stains on ceilings
• Soft spots in the attic

If the roof shows obvious deterioration, the appraiser may require repair or replacement. Address roof concerns early, especially in Florida where storms accelerate wear and tear.

3. No Working Heating System

Even in most Florida counties, the VA requires a permanent and functioning heating system.

Portable heaters do not qualify. The system must heat the home adequately and operate safely.

If the heating system does not function during inspection, repairs must occur before funding. This requirement surprises many sellers, but it protects the veteran’s long-term livability.

4. Missing Handrails or Safety Hazards

Safety plays a major role in VA minimum property standards.

Appraisers frequently call out:

• Missing handrails on staircases
• Loose or unstable railings
• Exposed wiring
• Trip hazards or broken steps

These items usually cost very little to fix. However, they still require correction before closing.

When agents prepare sellers in advance, these issues rarely become problems.

5. Water Damage or Moisture Issues

Water intrusion creates some of the most serious VA appraisal delays.

Appraisers look for signs such as:

• Active plumbing leaks
• Mold or mildew
• Structural damage from moisture
• Poor drainage around the foundation

Water damage suggests potential structural or health risks. Therefore, the VA treats it seriously.

Fixing leaks before listing dramatically improves your chances of a smooth appraisal.

Are VA Appraisals Harder Than Conventional?

Not necessarily.

Conventional appraisals focus primarily on value. VA appraisals evaluate both value and property condition. FHA loans often apply similar or even stricter property standards.

The difference is not difficulty. The difference is purpose.

VA appraisals protect veterans from buying unsafe or structurally compromised homes. Additionally, VA loans often allow re-inspections or repair escrows, which makes solutions more manageable than many people assume.

Why Sellers Should Not Fear VA Buyers

Some sellers hesitate when they hear “VA loan.” In reality, VA buyers often arrive highly qualified and fully underwritten.

Most delays happen because of misinformation, not because of impossible standards.

When everyone understands what fails a VA appraisal upfront, the transaction stays on track. Preparation removes fear.

Final Thoughts

So, what fails a VA appraisal?

Usually, it is not major structural collapse. Instead, small safety or maintenance issues cause temporary delays. Peeling paint, roof concerns, heating problems, missing handrails, and moisture damage account for most VA appraisal conditions.

When you address these early, closings move smoothly.

Working with a local VA expert makes a difference. At Morgan Financial, we prepare buyers and agents for these standards before the appraiser ever steps inside the home. That preparation keeps deals from falling apart.

If you have questions about a VA appraisal or want to structure your offer correctly, reach out to the team at Morgan Financial. A quick conversation today can prevent a delay tomorrow.