Space heaters or non-conventional heat sources must comply with local codes. If does not comply, conventional heating system must be installed.
The property needs to be free of known hazards that affect health and safety, the home's use, or may affect the structural soundness of the house and its marketability. These include, but are not limited to: Toxic chemicals. Radioactive materials.
Either the seller will have to tend to these repairs or the buyer must pursue alternative funding options, such as an FHA 203(k) Loan. Common issues that may result in a failed inspection include: Heating, plumbing, or electrical issues. Leaking, damaged, or inadequate roofing.
Space heaters can count as long as it keeps the temperature above 68. (Exception being if you have access to the thermostat then the landlord doesn't have to keep it at 68) so as long as the space heaters can maintain 68 then there isn't much you can do.
- A permanently installed heating source may: - include forced air heating, radiant heat, baseboard units heated by electric, or installed wall units. - have an electric, gas, or oil energy source. - fireplaces or wood stoves.
CHEAP AND EFFICIENT HEATING
Natural gas is usually the cheapest way. Even with higher gas prices, a heating system fueled by natural gas is typically less than electricity, propane, or heating oil.
Heaters must be kept at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including papers, clothing and rugs. Locate space heaters out of high traffic areas and doorways where they may pose a tripping hazard. Plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet.
Non-Conventional Heating Systems: All non-conventional heating systems, such as space heaters and others, must comply with local jurisdictional guidelines. Often these are not acceptable as the primary source of heat. Propane tanks must be a safe distance from the dwelling.
The overall structure of the property must be in good enough condition to keep its occupants safe. This means severe structural damage, leakage, dampness, decay or termite damage can cause the property to fail inspection. In such a case, repairs must be made in order for the FHA loan to move forward.
Health and safety issues that can halt FHA approval
They look for hazardous building materials and finishes that are known to cause health problems in humans. This can include lead paint and asbestos in older homes. Appraisers also look for signs of mold.
Reasons for an FHA Rejection
There are three popular reasons – bad credit, high debt-to-income ratio, and overall insufficient money to cover the down payment and closing costs of a home.
FHA loans are not permitted for condo hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, or other “occasional occupancy” rental situations. Your dream home may not be perfect; it may require repairs or corrections to be approved for an FHA mortgage.
Homes that may not pass an FHA inspection
Health and safety concerns: Properties with potential health and safety hazards, such as lead-based paint, asbestos, or mold, may not qualify for an FHA loan.
Regardless of the motivation, space heaters simply aren't a long-term solution for home heating needs. Space heaters are extremely dangerous. The National Fire Protection Association estimates that between 2009 and 2013, heating equipment caused more than 56,000 home fires in the United States.
Must ALSO have a conventional heat source in all living areas. Must also have a heat source to maintain 50 degrees F in rooms where plumbing is located. (Example: electric baseboard heat in bathroom, kitchen and basement/crawl space where plumbing pipes are located.)
Most properties have guidelines that restrict the use of open-flame appliances due to their high risks. The restrictions are meant to protect other tenants and the property.
Each year, many serious fires result from the improper use of these heaters. Because of their mobility, these stoves pose a hazard when placed near combustible materials or where they can block a means of egress. Portable Electric Heaters (Section 11.5. 3).
“No, it's absolutely not safe to use a space heater at night,” states Glenn Gault, CEO at Gault Heating & Cooling. “It's not even safe to leave your space heater running when you leave a room for just a few minutes.
But in general, since central heating powered by natural gas is cheaper than heat from electricity, heating a large space will cost less with an HVAC system that runs on gas.
If someone is at home in the daytime, 72° F (22° C) is a good start, but aim for 68° F (20° C). If everyone is away from home in the daytime or you're asleep at night, we feel 66° F (19° C) to 62° F (17° C) is best.