Last updated on March 15th, 2023 at 03:55 am
Title 24 – Housing and Urban Development–Volume 2
Subtitle B – Regulations Relating to Housing and Urban Development (Continued)
CHAPTER II – OFFICE OF ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR HOUSING – FEDERAL HOUSING COMMISSIONER, DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT
SUBCHAPTER A – GENERAL
PART 200 – INTRODUCTION TO FHA PROGRAMS
§ 200.1 Purpose.
This part sets forth requirements that are applicable to several of the programs of the Federal Housing Administration, an organizational unit within the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Program requirements applicable to FHA programs and other HUD programs also can be found in 24 CFR part 5. The specific program regulations should be consulted to determine which requirements in this part 200 or 24 CFR part 5 are applicable.
Subpart A – Requirements for Application, Commitment, and Endorsement Generally Applicable to Multifamily and Health Care Facility Mortgage Insurance Programs; and Continuing Eligibility Requirements for Existing Projects
§ 200.3 Definitions.
(a) The definitions “department”, “elderly person”, “family”, “HUD”, and “Secretary”, as used in this subpart A, shall have the meanings given these terms in 24 CFR part 5.
(b) The terms “first mortgage”, “hospital”, “maturity date”, “mortgage”, “mortgagee”, and “state”, as used in this subpart A shall have the meaning given in the section of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1701), as amended, under which the project mortgage is insured.
(c) As used in this subpart A:
Act means the National Housing Act, (12 U.S.C. 1701) as amended.
Commissioner means the Federal Housing Commissioner.
FHA means the Federal Housing Administration.
Insured mortgage means a mortgage which has been insured by the endorsement of the credit instrument by the Commissioner, or the Commissioner’s duly authorized representative.
Project means a property consisting of site, improvements and, where permitted, equipment meeting the provisions of the applicable section of the Act, other applicable statutes and regulations, and terms, conditions and standards established by the Commissioner.
Eligible Mortgagor
§ 200.5 Eligible mortgagor.
(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, the mortgagor:
(1) Shall be a single asset mortgagor entity acceptable to the Commissioner, as limited by the applicable section of the Act, and shall possess the powers necessary and incidental to operating the project, except that the Commissioner may approve a non-single asset mortgagor entity under such circumstances, terms and conditions determined and specified as acceptable to the Commissioner; and
(2) Shall not be a natural person or tenant in common.
(b)(1) For multifamily project mortgages for which HUD issued a firm commitment for mortgage insurance before September 1, 2011, and for multifamily project mortgages insured under section 232 of the Act (12 U.S.C. 1715w), the mortgagor shall be a natural person or entity acceptable to the Commissioner, as limited by the applicable section of the Act, and shall possess the powers necessary and incidental to operating the project.
(2) For multifamily project mortgages for which HUD issued a firm commitment for mortgage insurance on or after September 1, 2011, the regulations of paragraph (a) of this section shall apply, unless the mortgagor demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Commissioner that financial hardship to the mortgagor would result from application of the regulations in paragraph (a) of this section due to the reasonable expectations of the mortgagor that the transaction would close under the regulations in effect prior to September 1, 2011, in which case, the regulations of paragraph (b)(1) shall apply.
The requirements set forth in 24 CFR part 5, regarding the disclosure and verification of social security numbers and employer identification numbers by applicants and participants in assisted mortgage and loan insurance and related programs, apply to these programs.
Eligible Mortgagee
§ 200.10 Lender requirements.
The requirements set forth in part 202 of this chapter regarding approval, recertification, withdrawal of approval, approval for servicing, report requirements and conditions for supervised mortgagees, nonsupervised mortgagees, investing mortgagees, and governmental and similar institutions, apply to these programs.
§ 200.11 Audit requirements for State and local governments as mortgagees.
Requirements set forth in 2 CFR part 200, subpart F, apply to State and local governments (as defined at 2 CFR 200.90 and 200.64, respectively) that receive mortgage insurance as mortgagees.
Eligible Mortgage
§ 200.15 Maximum mortgage.
Mortgages must not exceed either the statutory dollar amount or loan ratio limitations established by the section of the Act under which the mortgage is insured, except that the Commissioner may increase the dollar amount limitations:
(a) By not to exceed 170 percent, in any geographical area, in which the Commissioner finds that cost levels so require; and
(b) By not to exceed 170 percent, or 215 percent in high-cost areas, where the Commissioner determines it necessary on a project-by-project basis.
§ 200.16 Project mortgage adjustments and reductions.
The principal amount computed in accordance with the applicable section of the Act for the insured mortgage shall be subject to additional adjustments and reductions in accordance with terms and conditions established by the Commissioner.
§ 200.17 Mortgage coverage.
The mortgage shall cover the entire property included in the project.
§ 200.18 Minimum loan prohibition.
A mortgagee may not require that the mortgage exceed a minimum amount established by the mortgagee, as a condition of providing a loan secured by a mortgage insured under this part.
Miscellaneous Project Mortgage Insurance
§ 200.20 Refinancing insured mortgages.
An existing mortgage insured under the Act, or an existing mortgage held by the Secretary that is subject to a mortgage restructuring and rental assistance sufficiency plan under the Multifamily Assisted Housing Reform and Affordability Act, 42 U.S.C. 1437f note (MAHRA), may be refinanced pursuant to section 223(a)(7) of the Act and such terms and conditions as may be established by the Commissioner. The term of such refinancing in connection with the implementation of an approved restructuring plan under section 401, subpart C of this title, may be up to, but not more than, 30 years.
§ 200.21 Reinsurance of Commissioner held mortgages.
Any mortgage assigned to the Commissioner in connection with payment under a contract of mortgage insurance, or executed in connection with a sale by the Commissioner of any property acquired under any section or title of the Act, may be insured pursuant to provisions of section 223(c) of the Act and such terms and conditions established by the Commissioner.
§ 200.22 Operating loss loans.
An insured loan to cover the operating losses of a project with an existing Commissioner insured mortgage may be made in accordance with provisions of section 223(d) of the Act and such terms and conditions established by the Commissioner.
§ 200.23 Projects in declining neighborhoods.
A Mortgage financing the repair, rehabilitation or construction of a project located in an older declining urban area shall be eligible for insurance pursuant to provisions of section 223(e) of the Act and such terms and conditions established by the Commissioner.
§ 200.24 Existing projects.
A mortgage financing the purchase or refinance of an existing rental housing project or refinance of the existing debt of an existing cooperative project under section 207 of the Act, or for refinancing the existing debt of an existing nursing home, intermediate care facility, assisted living facility, or board and care home, or any combination thereof, under section 232 of the Act, may be insured pursuant to provisions of section 223(f) of the Act and such terms and conditions established by HUD.
§ 200.25 Supplemental loans.
A loan, advance of credit or purchase of an obligation representing a loan or advance of credit made for the purpose of financing improvements or additions to a project covered by a mortgage insured under any section of the Act or Commissioner-held mortgage, or equipment for a nursing home, intermediate care facility, board and care home, assisted living facility, or group practices facility, may be insured pursuant to the provisions of section 241 of the Act and such terms and conditions established by HUD.
Miscellaneous Cross Cutting Regulations
§ 200.30 Nondiscrimination and equal opportunity.
The requirements set forth in 24 CFR part 5, and subparts I, J, and M of this part pertaining to nondiscrimination and equal opportunity, apply to these programs.
§ 200.31 Debarment and suspension.
The requirements set forth in 2 CFR part 2424 apply to these programs.
§ 200.32 Participation and compliance requirements.
The requirements set forth in 24 CFR part 200, subpart H, apply to these programs.
§ 200.33 Labor standards.
(a) The requirements set forth in 29 CFR parts 1, 3 and 5 for compliance with labor standards laws apply to projects under these programs to the extent that labor standards apply as provided in section 212 of the Act, provided that:
(1) The labor standards provisions do not apply to projects insured under sections 207 or 232 pursuant to section 223(f) of the Act; and
(2) Supplemental loans under section 241 of the Act are subject to the provisions of section 212 applicable to the section or title pursuant to which the mortgage covering the project is insured or pursuant to which the original mortgage was insured.
(b) The requirements set forth in 24 CFR part 70 apply to those programs with respect to which there is a statutory provision allowing HUD waiver of Davis-Bacon prevailing wage rates for volunteers.
(c) Project commitments, contracts and agreements, as determined by the Commissioner, and construction contracts and subcontracts, shall include terms, conditions and standards for compliance with applicable requirements set forth in 29 CFR parts 1, 3 and 5 and section 212 of the Act.
(d) No advance under a loan or mortgage that is subject to the requirements of section 212 shall be eligible for insurance unless there is filed with the application for the advance a certificate as required by the Commissioner certifying that the laborers and mechanics employed in construction of the project have been paid not less than the wage rates required under section 212.
§ 200.34 Property and mortgage assessment.
The requirements set forth in 24 CFR part 200, subpart E, regarding the mortgagor’s responsibility for making those investigations, analysis and inspections it deems necessary for protecting its interests in the property apply to these programs.
§ 200.35 Appraisal standards – nondiscrimination requirements.
(a) Nondiscrimination in the selection of appraiser. In the selection of an appraiser, there shall be no discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, or disability.
(b) Nondiscrimination in appraisal determination. The certification required by the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice must include a statement that the racial/ethnic composition of the neighborhood surrounding the property in no way affected the appraisal determination.
§ 200.36 Financial reporting requirements.
The mortgagor must comply with the financial reporting requirements in 24 CFR part 5, subpart H.
§ 200.37 Preventing crime in federally assisted housing.
See part 5, subparts I and J of this title, for provisions concerning preventing crime in federally assisted housing, including programs administered under section 236 and under sections 221(d)(3) and 221(d)(5) of the National Housing Act.
§ 200.38 Protections for victims of domestic violence.
(a) The requirements for protection for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking in 24 CFR part 5, subpart L (Protection for Victims of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, or Stalking) apply to programs administered under section 236 and under sections 221(d)(3) and (d)(5) of the National Housing Act, as follows:
(1) Multifamily rental housing under section 221(d)(3) of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 17151(d)) with a below-market interest rate (BMIR) pursuant to section 221(d)(5), with implementing regulations at 24 CFR part 221. The Section 221(d)(3) BMIR program insured and subsidized mortgage loans to facilitate new construction or substantial rehabilitation of multifamily rental cooperative housing for low- and moderate-income families. The program is no longer active, but Section 221(d)(3) BMIR properties that remain in existence are covered by VAWA. Coverage of section 221(d)(3) and (d)(5) BMIR housing does not include section 221(d)(3) and (d)(5) BMIR projects that refinance under section 223(a)(7) or 223(f) of the National Housing Act where the interest rate is no longer determined under section 221(d)(5).
(2) Multifamily rental housing under section 236 of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1715z-1), with implementing regulations at 24 CFR part 236. Coverage of the section 236 program includes not only those projects with FHA-insured project mortgages under section 236(j), but also non-FHA-insured projects that receive interest reduction payments (“IRP”) under section 236(b) and formerly insured section 236 projects that continue to receive interest reduction payments through a “decoupled” IRP contract under section 236(e)(2). Coverage also includes projects that receive rental assistance payments authorized under section 236(f)(2).
(b) For the programs administered under paragraph (a) of this section, “covered housing provider” as such term is used in 24 CFR part 5, subpart L, refers to the mortgagor, or owner, as applicable.
Fees and Charges
§ 200.40 HUD fees.
The following fees apply to mortgages to be insured under this part.
(a) Application fee – SAMA letter (for new construction). An application fee of $1 per thousand dollars of the requested mortgage shall accompany the application for a SAMA letter. An additional fee of $1 per thousand dollars of the requested mortgage amount shall be charged for the review of plans and specifications.
(b) Application fee – feasibility letter (for substantial rehabilitation). An application fee of $3 per thousand dollars of the requested mortgage amount shall accompany the application for a feasibility letter.
(c) Application fee – conditional commitment. For a mortgage being insured under section 223(f) of the Act (12 U.S.C. 1715n), an application-commitment fee of $3 per thousand dollars of the requested mortgage amount shall accompany an application for conditional commitment.
(d)(1) Application fee – firm commitment: General. An application for firm commitment shall be accompanied by an application-commitment fee in an amount determined by the Secretary, which when added to any prior fees received in connection with the same application, shall not exceed $5.00 per thousand dollars of the requested mortgage amount to be insured. The payment of an application-commitment fee shall not be required in connection with an insured mortgage involving the sale by the government of housing or property acquired, held, or contracted pursuant to the Atomic Energy Community Act of 1955 (42 U.S.C. 2301 et seq.).
(2) Application fee – Section 232 Programs. For purposes of mortgages insured under HUD’s regulations in 24 CFR part 232, subpart C, an application for firm commitment shall be accompanied by an application fee in an amount determined by the Secretary, which shall not exceed $5.00 per thousand dollars of the requested mortgage amount to be insured.
(e) Inspection fee – (1) In general. The firm commitment may provide for the payment of an inspection fee in an amount not to exceed $5 per thousand dollars of the commitment. If an inspection fee is required, it shall be paid as follows:
(i) If the case involves insurance of advances, at the time of initial endorsement; or
(ii) If the case involves insurance upon completion, before the date construction is begun.
(2) Existing projects. For a mortgage being insured under section 223(f) of the Act, if the application provides for the completion of repairs, replacements and/or improvements (repairs), the Commissioner will charge an inspection fee equal to one percent (1%) of the cost of the repairs. However, where the Commissioner determines the cost of repairs is minimal, the Commissioner may establish a minimum inspection fee that exceeds one percent of the cost of repairs and can periodically increase or decrease this minimum fee.
(f) Fees on increases – in general. This section applies to all applications except applications involving hospitals, which are covered in 24 CFR part 242.
(1) Increase in firm commitment before endorsement. An application, filed before initial endorsement (or before endorsement in a case involving insurance upon completion), for an increase in the amount of an outstanding firm commitment, shall be accompanied by a combined additional application and commitment fee. This combined additional fee shall be in an amount that will aggregate $5 per thousand dollars of the amount of the requested increase. If an inspection fee was required in the original commitment, an additional inspection fee shall be paid in an amount computed at the same dollar rate per thousand dollars of the amount of increase in commitment as was used for the inspection fee required in the original commitment. When insurance of advances is involved, the additional inspection fee shall be paid at the time of initial endorsement. When insurance upon completion is involved, the additional inspection fee shall be paid before the date construction is begun; or, if construction has begun, it shall be paid with the application for increase.
(2) Increase in mortgage between initial and final endorsement. Upon the filing of an application between initial and final endorsement, for an increase in the amount of the mortgage, either by amendment or by substitution of a new mortgage, a combined additional application and commitment fee shall accompany the application. This combined additional fee shall be in an amount that will aggregate $5 per thousand dollars of the amount of the increase requested. If an inspection fee was required in the original commitment, an additional inspection fee shall accompany the application in an amount not to exceed the $5 per thousand dollars of the amount of the increase requested.
(3) Loan to cover operating losses. In connection with a loan to cover operating losses (see Sec. 200.22), a combined application and commitment fee of $5 per thousand dollars of the amount of the loan applied for shall be submitted with the application for a firm commitment. No inspection fee shall be required.
(g) Reopening of expired commitments. An expired commitment may be reopened if a request for reopening is received by the Commissioner within 90 days of the expiration of the commitment. The reopening request shall be accompanied by a fee of 50 cents per thousand dollars of the amount of the expired commitment. If the reopening request is not received by the Commissioner within the required 90-day period, a new application, accompanied by the required application and commitment fee, must be submitted.
(h) Transfer fee. Upon application for the approval of a transfer of physical assets or the substitution of mortgagors, a transfer fee of 50 cents per thousand dollars shall be paid on the original face amount of the mortgage in all cases, except that a transfer fee shall not be paid where both parties to the transfer transaction are nonprofit purchasers, or when the transfer of physical assets or the substitution of mortgagors occurs contemporaneously with the restructuring of a mortgage pursuant to a restructuring plan under part 401, subpart C of this title.
(i) Refund of fees. If the amount of the commitment issued or increase in mortgage granted is less than the amount applied for, the Commissioner shall refund the excess amount of the application and commitment fees submitted by the applicant. If an application is rejected before it is assigned for processing, or in such other instances as the Commissioner may determine, the entire application and commitment fee or any portion thereof may be returned to the applicant. Commitment, inspection and reopening fees may be refunded, in whole or in part, if it is determined by the Commissioner that there is a lack of need for the housing or that the construction or financing of the project has been prevented because of condemnation proceedings or other legal action taken by a governmental body or public agency, or in such other instances as the Commissioner may determine. A transfer fee may be refunded only in such instances as the Commissioner may determine.
(j) Fees not required. (1) The payment of an application, commitment, inspection, or reopening fee shall not be required in connection with the insurance of a mortgage involving the sale by the Secretary of any property acquired under any section or title of the Act.
(2) The payment of an application or commitment fee shall not be required in connection with the insurance of a mortgage used to facilitate a restructuring plan under part 401, subpart C of this title.
§ 200.41 Maximum mortgagee fees and charges.
(a) Mortgagee fees and charges included in the mortgage must be for actual required services provided to the mortgagor by the mortgagee, and shall not exceed common market rates for such services as determined by the Commissioner.
(b) Mortgagee charges for prepayment of the mortgage and late mortgage payments shall not exceed that determined appropriate by the Commissioner.
Commitment Applications
§ 200.45 Processing of applications.
(a) Preapplication conference. Except for mortgages insured under section 241(f) or 242 of the Act, the local HUD Office will determine whether participation in such a conference is required as a condition to submission of an initial application for either a site appraisal and market analysis (SAMA) letter (for new construction), a feasibility letter (for substantial rehabilitation), or for a firm commitment. The project sponsor may elect (after the preapplication conference if required) to submit an application for a SAMA or a feasibility letter (as appropriate), or for a firm commitment for insurance depending upon the completeness of the drawings, specifications and other required exhibits. An application for a SAMA or feasibility letter may be submitted by the project sponsor. An application for a firm commitment for insurance must be submitted by both the project sponsor and an approved mortgagee. Applications shall be submitted to the local HUD Office on HUD-approved forms. No application will be considered unless accompanied by all exhibits required by the form and program handbooks. At the option of the local HUD Office, the SAMA/Feasibility letter stage of processing can be combined with the firm commitment stage of processing.
(b) Firm commitment requirement. An application for a firm commitment must be made by an approved mortgagee for any project for which a mortgagor seeks mortgage insurance under the Act.
(c) Staged applications. Staged applications leading to an application for firm commitment shall be made as determined appropriate by the Commissioner, and in accordance with such terms and conditions established by the Commissioner. The intermediate stages to firm commitment may include a site appraisal and market analysis (SAMA) letter stage or a feasibility letter stage and a conditional commitment. The conditional commitment stage applies only to mortgages to be insured pursuant to section 223(f) of the Act.
(d) Effect of SAMA letter, feasibility letter, and firm commitment – (1) SAMA letter. (i) The issuance of a SAMA letter indicates completion of the site appraisal and market analysis stage to determine initial acceptability of the site and recognition of a specific market need. The SAMA letter is not a commitment to insure a mortgage for the proposed project and does not bind the Commissioner to issue a firm commitment to insure. The SAMA letter precedes the later submission of acceptable plans and specifications for the proposed project and is limited to advising the applicant as to the following determinations of the Commissioner, which shall not be changed to the detriment of an applicant, if the application for a firm commitment is received before expiration of the SAMA letter:
(A) The land value fully improved (with off-site improvements installed);
(B) The acceptability of the proposed project site, the proposed composition, number and size of the units and the market for the number of proposed units. Where the application is not acceptable as submitted, but can be made acceptable by a change in the number, size, or composition of the units, the SAMA letter may establish the specific lesser number of units which would be acceptable and any acceptable alternative plan for the composition and size of units; and
(C) The acceptability of the unit rents proposed. Where rent levels are unacceptable, the SAMA letter may establish specific rents which are acceptable.
(ii) After receiving a SAMA letter, the sponsor shall submit design drawings and specifications in a timeframe prescribed by the Commissioner. The Commissioner will review and comment on design development and the drawings and specifications. The comments will be provided to the sponsor for use in preparing a firm commitment application.
(2) Feasibility letter. The issuance of a feasibility letter indicates approval of the preliminary work write-up and outline specifications and completion of technical processing involving the estimated rehabilitation cost of the project, the “as is” value of the site, the detailed estimates of operating expenses and taxes, the specific unit rents, the vacancy allowance, and the estimated mortgage amount. The issuance of a feasibility letter is not a commitment to insure a mortgage for the proposed project and does not bind the Commissioner to issue a firm commitment to insure. Determinations found in a feasibility letter are not to be binding upon the Department and may be changed in whole or in part at any later point in time. The letter may even be unilaterally terminated by the Commissioner if found necessary.
(3) Conditional commitment. The issuance of a Section 223(f) conditional commitment indicates completion of technical processing involving the estimated value of the property, the detailed estimates of rents, operating expenses and taxes and an estimated mortgage amount.
(e) Term of SAMA letter, feasibility letter, and conditional commitment. A SAMA letter, a feasibility letter, and a conditional commitment shall be effective for whatever term is specified in the respective letter or commitment.
(f) Rejection of an application. A significant deviation in an application from the Commissioner’s terms or conditions in an earlier stage application commitment or agreement shall be grounds for rejection. The fees paid to such date shall be considered as having been earned notwithstanding such rejection.
§ 200.46 Commitment issuance.
Upon approval of an application for insurance, a commitment shall be issued by the Commissioner setting forth the terms and conditions upon which the mortgage will be insured. The commitment term and any extension or reopening of an expired commitment shall be in accordance with standards established by the Commissioner.
§ 200.47 Firm commitments.
A valid firm commitment must be in effect at the time the mortgage instrument is endorsed.
(a) Insurance upon completion. The commitment shall provide the terms and conditions for the insurance of the mortgage:
(1) After completion of construction or substantial rehabilitation of the project; or
(2) Upon completion of required work, except as deferred by the Commissioner in accordance with terms, conditions and standards established by the Commissioner, for an existing project without substantial rehabilitation.
(b) Insured advances. The commitment shall provide for insurance of the mortgage as provided in paragraph (a) of this section, and for the insurance of mortgage money advanced in accordance with terms and conditions established by the Commissioner during: construction; substantial rehabilitation; or other work acceptable to the Commissioner.
Requirements Incident to Insured Advances
§ 200.50 Building loan agreement.
The mortgagor and mortgagee must execute a building loan agreement approved by the Commissioner, that sets forth the terms and conditions under which progress payments may be advanced during construction, before initial endorsement of the mortgage for insurance.
§ 200.51 Mortgagee certificate.
The mortgagee shall certify to the Commissioner that it will conform with terms and conditions established by the Commissioner for the mortgagee’s control of project funds, and other incidental requirements established by the Commissioner.
§ 200.52 Construction contract.
The form of contract between the mortgagor and builder shall be as prescribed by the Commissioner in accordance with terms and conditions established by the Commissioner.
§ 200.53 Initial operating funds.
The mortgagor shall deposit cash with the mortgagee, or in a depository satisfactory to the mortgagee and under control of the mortgagee, in accordance with terms, conditions and standards established by the Commissioner for:
(a) Accruals for taxes, ground rates, mortgage insurance premiums, and property insurance premiums, during the course of construction;
(b) Meeting the cost of equipping and renting the project subsequent to its completion in whole or part; and
(c) Allocation by the mortgagee for assessments required by the terms of the mortgage in an amount acceptable to the Commissioner.
§ 200.54 Project completion funding.
(a) Except as provided in paragraph (d) of this section, the mortgagor shall deposit with the mortgagee cash deemed by the Commissioner to be sufficient, when added to the proceeds of the insured mortgage, to assure completion of the project and to pay the initial service charge, carrying charges, and legal and organizational expenses incident to the construction of the project. The Commissioner may accept a lesser cash deposit or an alternative to a cash deposit in accordance with terms and conditions established by the Commissioner, where the required funding is to be provided by a grant or loan from a Federal, State, or local government agency or instrumentality.
(b) An agreement acceptable to the Commissioner shall require that funds provided by the mortgagor under requirements of this section must be disbursed in full for project work, material, and incidental charges and expenses before disbursement of any mortgage proceeds, except:
(c) Low-income housing tax credit syndication proceeds, historic tax-credit syndication proceeds, New Markets Tax Credits proceeds, or funds provided by a grant or loan from a Federal, State, or local governmental agency or instrumentality under requirements of this section need not be fully disbursed before the disbursement of mortgage proceeds, where approved by the Commissioner in accordance with terms, conditions, and standards established by the Commissioner;
(d) In the case of a mortgage insured under any provision of this title executed in connection with the purchase, construction, rehabilitation, or refinancing of a multifamily tax credit project, the Commissioner may not require:
(1) The escrowing of equity provided by Low-Income Housing Tax Credits for the project pursuant to Title 26, section 42 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986;
(2) The escrowing of equity provided by historic rehabilitation tax credits, New Markets Tax Credits, or any other form of security, such as a letter of credit.
§ 200.55 Financing fees and charges.
Fees and charges approved by the Commissioner in excess of the initial service charge shall be deposited with the mortgagee in cash before initial endorsement, except as otherwise preapproved by the Commissioner.
§ 200.56 Assurance of completion for on-site improvements.
The mortgagor shall furnish assurance of completion of the project in the form and amount provided by terms, conditions and standards established by the Commissioner.
General Requirements
§ 200.60 Assurance of completion for offsite facilities.
An assurance of completion for offsite utilities, streets, and other facilities required for a buildable site shall be provided in an amount and form acceptable to the Commissioner, except where a municipality or other public body has, in a manner acceptable to the Commissioner, agreed to install such improvements without cost to the mortgagor.
§ 200.61 Title.
(a) Marketable title to the project must be vested in the mortgagor as of the date the mortgage is filed for record.
(b) Title evidence for the Commissioner’s examination shall include a lender’s title insurance policy, which title policy provides survey coverage based on a survey acceptable to the title company and the Commissioner; or as the Commissioner may otherwise require, in accordance with terms, conditions and standards established by the Commissioner.
(c) Endorsement of the credit instrument for insurance shall evidence the acceptability of title evidence.
§ 200.62 Certifications.
Any agreement, undertaking, statement or certification required by the Commissioner shall specifically state that it has been made, presented, and delivered for the purpose of influencing an official action of the FHA, and of the Commissioner, and may be relied upon by the Commissioner as a true statement of the facts contained therein.
§ 200.63 Required deposits and letters of credit.
(a) Deposits. Where the Commissioner requires the mortgagor to make a deposit of cash or securities, such deposit shall be with the mortgagee or a depository acceptable to the mortgagee. The deposit shall be held by the mortgagee in a special account or by the depository under an appropriate agreement approved by the Commissioner.
(b) Letter of credit. Where the use of a letter of credit is acceptable to the Commissioner in lieu of a deposit of cash or securities, the letter of credit shall be issued to the mortgagee by a banking institution and shall be unconditional and irrevocable:
(1) The mortgagee of record may not be the issuer of any letter of credit without the prior written consent of the Commissioner.
(2) The mortgagee shall be responsible to the Commissioner for collection under the letter of credit. In the event a demand for payment thereunder is not immediately met, the mortgagee shall immediately provide a cash deposit equivalent to the undrawn balance of the letter of credit.
Property Requirements
§ 200.70 Location and fee interest.
The property must be held by an eligible mortgagor, and must conform with requirements pertaining to property location and fee or lease interests of the section of the Act under which the mortgage is insured.
§ 200.71 Liens.
The project must be free and clear of all liens other than the insured mortgage, except that the property may be subject to an inferior lien as provided by terms and conditions established by the Commissioner for an inferior lien:
(a) Made or held by a Federal, State or local government instrumentality;
(b) Required in connection with: an operating loss loan insured pursuant to a section 223(d) of the Act; a supplemental loan insured pursuant to section 241 of the Act; or a mortgage to purchase or refinance an existing project pursuant to section 223(f) of the Act; or
(c) As otherwise provided by the Commissioner.
§ 200.72 Zoning, deed and building restrictions.
The project when completed shall not violate any material zoning or deed restrictions applicable to the project site, and shall comply with all applicable building and other governmental codes, ordinances, regulations and requirements.
§ 200.73 Property development.
(a) The property shall be suitable and principally designed for the intended use, as provided by the applicable section of the Act under which the mortgage is insured, and have long-term marketability. Design, construction, substantial rehabilitation and repairs shall be in accordance with standards established by the Commissioner.
(b) A project may include such commercial and community facilities as the Commissioner deems acceptable.
(c) The improvements shall constitute a single project. Not less than five rental dwelling units or personal care units, 20 medical care beds, or 50 manufactured home pads, shall be on one site, except that such limitations do not apply to group practice facilities.
§ 200.74 Minimum property standards.
The requirements set forth in subpart S of this part apply to these programs, except for hospitals insured under section 242 of the Act and group practice facilities insured under title XI of the Act.
§ 200.75 Environmental quality determinations and standards.
Requirements set forth in 24 CFR part 50, Protection and Enhancement of Environmental Quality, 24 CFR part 51, Environmental Criteria and Standards, 24 CFR part 55, Implementation of Executive Order 11988, Flood Plain Management, and as otherwise required by the Commissioner apply to these programs.
§ 200.76 Smoke detectors.
Smoke detectors and alarm devices must be installed in accordance with standards and criteria acceptable to the Commissioner for the protection of occupants in any dwelling or facility bedroom or other primary sleeping area.
§ 200.77 Lead-based paint poisoning prevention.
Requirements set forth in 24 CFR part 35 apply to these programs.
§ 200.78 Energy conservation.
Construction, mechanical equipment, and energy and metering selections shall provide cost effective energy conservation in accordance with standards established by the Commissioner.
Mortgage Provisions
§ 200.80 Mortgage form.
The mortgage shall be:
(a) Executed on a form approved by the Commissioner for use in the jurisdiction in which the property securing the mortgage is situated, which form shall not be changed without the prior written approval of the Commissioner.
(b) Executed by an eligible mortgagor.
(c) A first lien on the property securing the mortgage, which property conforms with the property standards prescribed by the Commissioner.
§ 200.81 Disbursement of mortgage proceeds.
The mortgagee shall be obligated, as a part of the mortgage transaction, to disburse the principal amount of the mortgage to the:
(a) Mortgagor or mortgagor’s account;
(b) Mortgagor’s creditors for the mortgagor’s account, subject to the mortgagor’s consent.
§ 200.82 Maturity.
The mortgage shall have a maturity satisfactory to the Commissioner, and shall contain complete amortization or sinking-fund provisions satisfactory to the Commissioner.
(a) The maximum mortgage term may not exceed the lesser of:
(1) Any limits included under the applicable section of the Act.
(2) Thirty-five years for existing projects, except that the mortgage term may be up to 40 years under terms and conditions established by the Commissioner, and 40 years for proposed construction and substantial rehabilitation projects.
(3) Seventy-five percent of the estimated remaining economic life of the physical improvements.
(b) The minimum mortgage term shall not be less than 10 years.
§ 200.83 Interest rate.
(a) The mortgage shall bear interest at the rate agreed upon by the mortgagee and the mortgagor.
(b) Interest shall be payable in monthly installments on the principal amount of the mortgage outstanding on the due date of each installment.
(c) The amount of any increase approved by the Commissioner in the mortgage amount between initial and final endorsement in excess of the amount that the Commissioner had committed to insure at initial endorsement shall bear interest at the rate agreed upon by the mortgagee and the mortgagor.
§ 200.84 Payment requirements.
The mortgage shall provide for:
(a) A single aggregate payment each month for all payments to be made by the mortgagor to the mortgagee.
(b) The mortgagor to pay to the mortgagee:
(1) Interest and principal on the first day of each month in accordance with an amortization plan agreed upon by the mortgagor, the mortgagee and the Commissioner.
(i) Date of first payment to interest shall be the endorsement date or, where there are insured advances, the initial endorsement date.
(ii) Date of first payment to principal. The Commissioner shall estimate the time necessary to complete the project and shall establish the date of the first payment to principal so that the lapse of time between completion of the project and commencement of amortization will not be longer than necessary to obtain sustaining occupancy.
(2) An amount on each interest payment date sufficient to accumulate in the hands of the mortgagee one payment period prior to its due date, the next annual mortgage insurance premium payable by the mortgagee to the Commissioner. Such payments shall continue only so long as the contract of insurance shall remain in effect.
(3) Equal monthly payments as will amortize the ground rents, if any, and the estimated amount of all taxes, water charges, special assessments, and fire and other hazard insurance premiums, within a period ending one month prior to the dates on which the same become delinquent.
(4) The mortgage shall further provide:
(i) That such payments shall be held by the mortgagee, for the purpose of paying such items before they become delinquent.
(ii) For adjustments in case such estimated amounts shall prove to be more, or less, than the actual amounts so paid therefor by the mortgagor.
(c) The mortgagee to apply each mortgagor payment received to the following items in the order set forth:
(1) Premium charges under the contract of mortgage insurance.
(2) Ground rents, taxes, special assessments, and fire and other hazard insurance premiums.
(3) Interest on the mortgage.
(4) Amortization of the principal of the mortgage.
§ 200.85 Covenant against liens.
(a) The mortgage shall contain a covenant against the creation by the mortgagor of liens against the property superior or inferior to the lien of the mortgage except for such inferior lien as may be approved by the Commissioner in accordance with provisions of § 200.71; and
(b) A covenant against repayment of a Commissioner approved inferior lien from mortgage proceeds other than surplus cash or residual receipts, except in the case of an inferior lien created by an operating loss loan insured pursuant to section 223(d) of the Act, or a supplemental loan insured pursuant to section 241 of the Act.
§ 200.86 Covenant for fire and other hazard insurance.
The mortgage shall contain a covenant binding the mortgagor to maintain fire and extended coverage insurance on the property in accordance with terms and conditions established by the Commissioner.
§ 200.87 Mortgage prepayment.
(a) Prepayment privilege. Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section or otherwise established by the Commissioner, the mortgage shall contain a provision permitting the mortgagor to prepay the mortgage in whole or in part upon any interest payment date, after giving the mortgagee 30 days’ notice in writing in advance of its intention to so prepay.
(b) Prepayment charge. The mortgage may contain a provision for such charge, in the event of prepayment of principal, as may be agreed upon between the mortgagor and the mortgagee, subject to the following:
(1) The mortgagor shall be permitted to prepay up to 15 percent of the original principal amount of the mortgage in any one calendar year without any such charge.
(2) Any reduction in the original principal amount of the mortgage resulting from the certification of cost which the Commissioner may require shall not be construed as a prepayment of the mortgage.
(c) Prepayment of bond-financed or GNMA securitized mortgages. Where the mortgage is given to secure GNMA mortgage-backed securities or a loan made by a lender that has obtained the funds for the loan by the issuance and sale of bonds or bond anticipation notes, or both, the mortgage may contain a prepayment restriction and prepayment penalty charge acceptable to the Commissioner as to term, amount, and conditions.
(d) HUD override of prepayment restrictions. In the event of a default, the Commissioner may override any lockout, prepayment penalty or combination thereof in order to facilitate a partial or full refinancing of the mortgaged property and avoid a claim.
§ 200.88 Late charge.
(a) The mortgage may provide for the collection by the mortgagee of a late charge in accordance with terms, conditions, and standards of the Commissioner for each dollar of each payment to interest or principal:
(1) More than 10 days in arrears to cover the expense involved in handling delinquent payments;
(2) For multifamily project mortgages for which HUD issued a firm commitment for mortgage insurance before September 1, 2011, and for multifamily project mortgages insured under section 232 of the Act (12 U.S.C. 1715w), more than 15 days in arrears to cover the expense involved in handling delinquent payments.
(b) Late charges shall be separately charged to and collected from the mortgagor and shall not be deducted from any aggregate monthly payment.
Cost Certification
§ 200.95 Certification of cost requirements.
(a) Before initial endorsement of the mortgage for insurance, the mortgagor, the mortgagee, and the Commissioner shall enter into an agreement in form and content satisfactory to the Commissioner for the purpose of precluding any excess of mortgage proceeds over statutory limitations. Under this agreement, the mortgagor shall disclose its relationship with the builder, including any collateral agreement, and shall agree:
(1) To enter into a construction contract, the terms of which shall depend on whether or not there exists an identity of interest between the mortgagor and the builder.
(2) To execute a Certificate of Actual Costs, upon completion of all physical improvements on the mortgaged property.
(3) To apply in reduction of the outstanding balance of the principal of the mortgage any excess of mortgage proceeds over statutory limitations based on actual cost.
(b) The provisions of paragraph (a) of this section relating to disclosure and the requirement for a construction contract shall not apply where the mortgagor is the general contractor.
§ 200.96 Certificates of actual cost.
(a) The mortgagor’s certificate of actual cost, in a form prescribed by the Commissioner, shall be submitted upon completion of the physical improvements to the satisfaction of the Commissioner and before final endorsement, except that in the case of an existing project that does not require substantial rehabilitation and where the commitment provides for completion of specified repairs after endorsement, a supplemental certificate of actual cost will be submitted covering the completed costs of any such repairs. The certificate shall show the actual cost to the mortgagor, after deduction of any kickbacks, rebates, trade discounts, or other similar payments to the mortgagor, or to any of its officers, directors, stockholders, partners or other entity member ownership, of construction and other costs, as prescribed by the Commissioner.
(b) The Certificate of Actual Cost shall be verified by an independent Certified Public Accountant or independent public accountant in a manner acceptable to the Commissioner.
(c) Upon the Commissioner’s approval of the mortgagor’s certification of actual cost such certification shall be final and incontestable except for fraud or material misrepresentation on the part of the mortgagor.
§ 200.97 Adjustments resulting from cost certification.
(a) Fee simple site. Upon receipt of the mortgagor’s certification of actual cost there shall be added to the total amount thereof the Commissioner’s estimate of the fair market value of any land included in the mortgage security and owned by the mortgagor in fee, such value being prior to the construction of the improvements.
(b) Leasehold site. In the event the land is held under a leasehold or other interest less than a fee, the cost, if any, of acquiring the leasehold or other interest is considered an allowable expense which may be added to actual cost provided that in no event shall such amount be in excess of the fair market value of such leasehold or other interest exclusive of proposed improvements.
(c) Adjustment. If the amount calculated in accordance with paragraphs (a) or (b) of this section exceeds the statutory dollar amount limits or loan ratio limits permitted by the section of Act under which the mortgage is to be insured, or program loan ratio limits established by the Commissioner in the absence of statutory limits, the amount must be reduced to the applicable limits before final endorsement.
Endorsement
§ 200.100 Insurance endorsement.
The credit instrument shall be initially and finally endorsed simultaneously for insurance pursuant to a commitment to insure upon completion. Where the advances of construction funds are to be insured pursuant to a commitment for insured advances, initial endorsement of the credit instrument shall occur before any mortgage proceeds are insured and the time of final endorsement shall be as set forth in paragraph (b) of this section.
(a) Initial endorsement. The Commissioner shall indicate the insurance of the mortgage by endorsing the original credit instrument and identifying the section of the Act and the regulations under which the mortgage is insured and the date of insurance.
(b) Final endorsement. When all advances of mortgage proceeds have been made and all the terms and conditions of the commitment have been met to the Commissioner’s satisfaction the Commissioner shall indicate on the original credit instrument the total of all advances approved for insurance and again endorse such instrument.
(c) Contract rights and obligations. The Commissioner and the mortgagee or lender shall be bound from the date of initial endorsement, whether the initial and final endorsement occur simultaneously or are split, by the provisions of the Contract Rights and Obligations set forth in the respective regulations for each section of the Act, as follows: Section 207 of the Act (24 CFR part 207); Section 213 of the Act (24 CFR part 213); Section 220 of the Act (24 CFR part 220); Section 221 of the Act (24 CFR part 221); Section 231 of the Act (24 CFR part 231); Section 232 of the Act (24 CFR part 232); Section 234 of the Act (24 CFR part 234); Section 241 of the Act (24 CFR part 241); Section 242 of the Act (24 CFR part 242); title XI of the Act (24 CFR part 244).
§ 200.101 Mortgagor lien certificate.
The mortgagor shall certify at the final endorsement of the mortgage for insurance as to each of the following:
(a) That the mortgage is the first lien upon and covers the entire project, including any equipment financed with mortgage proceeds.
(b) That the property upon which the improvements have been made or constructed and the equipment financed with mortgage proceeds are free and clear of all liens other than the insured mortgage and such other liens as may be approved by the Commissioner.
(c) That the certificate sets forth all unpaid obligations in connection with the mortgage transaction, the purchase of the mortgaged property, the construction or rehabilitation of the project or the purchase of the equipment financed with mortgage proceeds.
Regulation of Mortgagors
§ 200.105 Mortgagor supervision.
(a) As long as the Commissioner is the insurer or holder of the mortgage, the Commissioner shall regulate the mortgagor by means of a regulatory agreement providing terms, conditions and standards established by the Commissioner, or by such other means as the Commissioner may prescribe.
(b) The Commissioner may delegate to the mortgagee or other party the Commissioner’s authority, in whole or in part, in accordance with the terms, conditions and standards established by the Commissioner in any executed Regulatory Agreement or other instrument granting the Commissioner supervision of the mortgagor.
§ 200.106 Projects with limited distribution mortgagors and program assistance.
(a) Regulation as limited distribution mortgagors. In addition to regulation under § 200.105, limited distribution mortgagors for projects receiving “assistance within the jurisdiction of the Department” (as defined in § 4.3 of this title) may be regulated by the Commissioner as to additional matters, by regulation or otherwise, including as to the amount of the permissible distribution to the mortgagor.
(b) Increased distributions. The Commissioner may permit increased distributions of surplus cash, in excess of the amounts the Commissioner otherwise permits for limited distribution mortgagors, to a limited distribution mortgagor who participates in a HUD-approved initiative or program to preserve housing stock with below-market rents as affordable housing. The increased distribution will be limited to a maximum amount based on market rents and calculated according to HUD instructions. Funds that the mortgagor is authorized to retain under section 236(g)(2) of the National Housing Act are not considered distributions to the mortgagor.
(c) Pre-emption. Any State or local law or regulation that restricts distributions to an amount lower than permitted by the Commissioner under authority of this section is preempted to the extent provided in section 524(f) of the Multifamily Assisted Housing Reform and Affordability Act of 1997.
Subpart B – Electronic Submission of Required Data for Mortgage Defaults and Mortgage Insurance Claims for Insured Multifamily Mortgages
§ 200.120 Purpose and applicability.
(a) Purpose. The purpose of this subpart B is to require mortgagees of all multifamily projects whose mortgages are insured or coinsured by HUD to submit electronically information regarding mortgage delinquencies, defaults, reinstatements, elections to assign, and withdrawals of assignment elections, and related information, as that information is required by 24 CFR part 207 and Form HUD-92426 (which is available at the Department of Housing and Urban Development, HUD Customer Service Center, 451 7th Street, SW, Room B-100, Washington, DC 20410; telephone (800) 767-7468).
(b) Applicability. This subpart applies to all HUD multifamily mortgage insurance and coinsurance programs.
§ 200.121 Requirements and effectiveness.
(a) Multifamily mortgagees, which are required by 24 CFR part 207 to report mortgage delinquencies, defaults, reinstatements, assignment elections, withdrawals of assignment elections, and related information, must submit this information electronically, over the Internet, in accordance with the following schedule of effectiveness:
(1) Mortgagees having 70 or more insured mortgage loans must comply with this section by no later than March 1, 1999;
(2) Mortgagees having from 26 to 69 insured mortgage loans must comply with this section by no later than January 1, 2000;
(3) Mortgagees having from 11 to 25 insured mortgage loans must comply with this section by no later than January 1, 2001;
(4) Mortgagees having 10 or fewer insured mortgage loans must comply with this section by no later than January 1, 2002.
(b) Exception. On or after January 1, 2002, mortgagees that hold or service fewer than 10 multifamily mortgages may continue to report mortgage delinquencies, defaults, reinstatements, assignment elections, withdrawals of assignment elections, and related information in writing on Form HUD-92426 only with specific HUD approval. HUD will grant such approval, upon application by the mortgagee, for reasons of hardship due to insufficient financial resources to purchase the required hardware and Internet access.
(c) HUD will not accept reports of information regarding defaults, reinstatements, assignment elections, and related information in a manner that is not in accordance with this section. Failure on the part of mortgagees to report this information as required by 24 CFR part 207 and this section may result in HUD’s application of the sanctions and surcharges specified in 24 CFR part 207.
Subparts C-D [Reserved]
Subpart E – Mortgage Insurance Procedures and Processing
Application for Insurance
§ 200.145 Property and mortgage assessment.
(a) The mortgagor is responsible for making those investigations, analyses and inspections it deems necessary for protecting its interests in the property.
(b) Any appraisals, inspections, environmental assessments, and technical or financial evaluations conducted by or for the Commissioner are performed to determine the maximum insurable mortgage, and to protect the Commissioner and the FHA insurance funds. Such appraisals, inspections, assessments and evaluations neither create nor imply a duty or obligation from HUD to the mortgagor, or to any other party, and are not to be regarded as a warranty by HUD to the mortgagor, or any other party, of the value or condition of the property.
(c) For all new construction as well as structural repairs and/or renovations of existing properties, to the extent that an inspection is required to determine if construction quality of a one- to four-unit property is acceptable as security for an FHA-insured loan, the following requirements apply:
(1)(i) In areas where local jurisdictions provide building code enforcement and the requisite documentation, the lender shall provide a copy of:
(A) The building permit, or its equivalent, and a copy of the certificate of occupancy, or its equivalent; or
(B) A satisfactory inspection notice for work completed, or its equivalent.
(ii) The documentation provided under paragraph (c)(1)(i) of this section shall be considered satisfactory evidence of completion of the work.
(2) In jurisdictions that do not provide building code enforcement and requisite documentation, three inspections are required for new construction. For existing construction, only one inspection and certification of work completed for structural repairs and renovations is required. For both new and existing construction, the lender shall, in order to ensure compliance with FHA requirements:
(i) Select a Residential Combination Inspector (or its successor designation) or a Combination Inspector (or its successor designation) certified by the International Code Council (or its successor organization) who is licensed or certified as a home inspector in accordance with the applicable State and local requirements governing the licensing or certification of those jurisdictions that license or certify such inspectors in the respective jurisdiction. The lender shall provide a certification from such inspector that the new construction and/or structural repair or renovation work is completed satisfactorily and in compliance with any applicable building code.
(ii) In the absence of such Residential Combination Inspector and Combination Inspector, the lender shall obtain an inspection performed by a third party, who is a registered architect, a professional engineer, or a trades person or contractor, and who has met the licensing and bonding requirements of the State in which the property is located. The lender shall provide a certification from such inspector that the inspector is licensed and bonded under applicable State law, and that the new construction and/or structural repair or renovation work is completed satisfactorily and in compliance with any applicable building code.
Claims for Losses
§ 200.153 Presentation of claim.
In the event the insured lender is entitled under the contract of mortgage insurance to receive a claim settlement, the mortgagee presents a claim for insurance benefits in accordance with the Secretary’s instructions.
§ 200.156 Settlement of claims.
Upon the Secretary’s approval of a claim, the claim will be settled by issuance of cash, debentures or both, and, in certain cases, by issuance of a certificate of claim. However, in the event a final claim is in a negative amount, the claim will be settled by the mortgagee’s payment of cash or surrender of debentures at par plus accrued interest to the Secretary.
§ 200.157 Provisions and characteristics of debentures.
(a) Series and fund. Debentures are issued in appropriate series and are the obligation of and issued in the name of the particular mortgage insurance fund under which the mortgage is insured.
(b) Registration and denominations. Debentures in certificated form are issued in denominations of $50, $100, $500, $1,000 and $10,000 with the name of the owner inscribed on the face of the certificate. Debentures in book entry form are issued in a minimum amount of one dollar and in increments of one cent with the name of the owner recorded in an account master record on the books of the Treasury.
(c) Rate of interest and interchangeability. Debentures carry a rate of interest prescribed by the Commissioner but not in excess of an annual rate determined by the Secretary of the Treasury in accordance with prescribed statutory formula involving yields or prices of outstanding marketable obligations of the United States. Debentures in certificated form of the same series bearing the same interest rate and having the same maturity date shall be freely interchangeable between the various authorized denominations and may be exchanged for similar debentures in book entry form. Debentures in book entry form cannot be exchanged for debentures in certificated form.
(d) Negotiability and Redemption. Debentures in certificated form are negotiable and, if in book entry form, are transferable in the manner described in applicable Treasury regulations. Debentures are fully guaranteed as to principal and interest by the United States. Debentures are redeemable on call issued by the Commissioner.
(e) Payment of principal and interest. Principal and interest on debentures shall be payable when due at the Department of the Treasury, Washington, DC, or any Government agency or agencies in the United States which the Secretary of the Treasury may from time to time designate for that purpose. The principal and interest shall be payable to the owner whose name shall be inscribed on the debenture in certificated form, to the owner designated as assignee as shown by executed assignments for maturing or called certificated debentures, or to the owner whose name shall be recorded in the account master record of the book entry debentures.
(f) Transfer and use – (1) In general. Debentures in certificated form are negotiable and, if in book entry form, are transferable in the manner described in applicable Treasury regulations. They may be used by approved mortgagees in lieu of cash for payment of FHA mortgage insurance premiums.
(2) Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund debentures. Debentures of the Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund may be used to pay mortgage insurance premiums on mortgages insured under sections 203(b), 203(h), and 203(i), of the National Housing Act.
(3) Cooperative Management Housing Insurance Fund debentures. Debentures which are the obligation of the Cooperative Management Housing Insurance Fund may be used to pay premiums on mortgages and loans which are insured under that Fund. Where the insurance of a mortgage or loan is transferred from the General Insurance Fund to the Cooperative Management Housing Insurance Fund, or where a mortgage or loan is endorsed for insurance pursuant to a commitment transferred to the Cooperative Management Housing Insurance Fund, debentures issued in connection with such mortgage or loan may be used to pay insurance premiums of either the Cooperative Management Housing Insurance Fund or the General Insurance Fund.
(4) General Insurance Fund and debentures of other funds. Debentures of the General Insurance Fund and those debentures issued as obligations of mortgage insurance funds and accounts in existence prior to the enactment of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1965 (other than the Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund) which are transferred by the 1965 Act to the General Insurance Fund may be used to pay mortgage insurance premiums only on the following mortgages and loans:
(i) Those which are the obligation of the General Insurance Fund.
(ii) Those transferred from the General Insurance Fund to the Cooperative Management Housing Insurance Fund.
(iii) Those endorsed for insurance pursuant to commitments transferred to the Cooperative Management Housing Insurance Fund.
§ 200.158 Applicability of Treasury regulations to debenture transactions.
The Department of the Treasury acts as fiscal agent for the Commissioner in connection with transactions and operations relating to debentures. Treasury’s General Regulations Governing U.S. Securities (31 CFR part 306) and its Supplemental Regulations Governing Federal Housing Administration Debentures (31 CFR part 337) have been and are adopted as revised and amended, to the extent applicable, as the regulations of the Commissioner governing the issuance of, transactions in and redemption of debentures, including the payment of interest thereon with the following exceptions:
(a) Payment of final interest on maturing or called debentures. If the notice of maturity or call for redemption shall so provide, the final installment of interest payable on any debentures at maturity or earlier redemption date may be paid with the principal in accordance with the assignments on the debentures instead of by separate check drawn to the order of the registered payee and forwarded to him at his address of record.
(b) Closing of transfer books. If the call for redemption shall so provide, the books maintained by the Treasury Department may be closed against transfers and denominational exchanges in debentures for three full months preceding any interest payment date with respect to any debentures called for redemption on such interest payment date.
§ 200.159 Relief on account of lost, stolen, destroyed, mutilated or defaced debentures.
The statutes of the United States and the regulations of the Treasury Department governing relief on account of the loss, theft, destruction, mutilation or defacement of United States securities, so far as applicable and as necessarily modified to relate to debentures, are adopted as the regulations of the Commissioner for the issuance of substitute debentures or the payment of lost, stolen, destroyed, mutilated or defaced debentures.
§ 200.160 Redemption of debentures prior to maturity.
Debentures shall, at the option of the Commissioner and with the approval of the Secretary of the Treasury, be redeemable at par plus accrued interest on any semiannual interest payment date on 3 months’ notice of redemption given in such manner as the Commissioner shall prescribe. The debenture interest on the debentures called for redemption shall cease on the semiannual interest payment date designated in the call notice. The Commissioner may include with the notice of redemption an offer to purchase the debentures at par plus accrued interest at any time during the period between the notice of redemption and the redemption date. If the debentures are purchased by the Commissioner after such call and prior to the named redemption date, the debenture interest shall cease on the date of purchase.
§ 200.161 Administration of debenture transactions.
The Secretary of the Treasury or the Acting Secretary of the Treasury is authorized and empowered, on behalf of the Commissioner, to administer the regulations governing any transactions and operations in debentures, to do all things necessary to conduct such transactions and operations, and to delegate such authority at his discretion to other officers, employees, and agents of the U.S. Treasury Department. At his discretion the Secretary, the Under Secretary, or any Assistant Secretary of the Treasury acting by direction of the Secretary, is authorized to waive any such regulation on behalf of the Commissioner in any particular case where a similar regulation of the Treasury Department with respect to United States bonds or interest thereon would be waived.
§ 200.162 Certificates of claim.
The certificate of claim issued to the mortgagee at the time debentures are issued constitutes an agreement by the FHA that after the FHA has recovered its investment in a particular property any excess over and above such investment is available for payment on the certificate of claim. Certificates of claim bear interest at the rate of 3 percent per annum.
Subpart F – Placement and Removal Procedures for Participation in FHA Programs
Section 203(k ) Rehabilitation Loan Consultants
§ 200.190 HUD list of qualified 203(k) consultants.
(a) Qualified consultant list. HUD maintains a list of qualified consultants for use in the rehabilitation loan insurance program authorized by section 203(k) of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1709(k)) (referred to as the “203(k) Program”).
(b) Consultant functions. Only a consultant included on the list may be selected by the lender to conduct any consultant function under the 203(k) Program (see § 203.50(l) of this title).
(c) Disclaimer. The inclusion of a consultant on the list means only that the consultant has met the qualifications and conditions prescribed by the Secretary for placement on the list of consultants qualified for the 203(k) Program. The inclusion of a consultant on the list does not create or imply a warranty or endorsement by HUD of the consultant, nor does it represent a warranty of any work performed by the consultant.
§ 200.191 Placement of 203(k) consultant.
(a) Application. To be considered for placement on the list, a consultant must apply to HUD using an application (or materials) in a form prescribed by HUD.
(b) Eligibility. To be eligible for placement on the list:
(1) The consultant must demonstrate to HUD that it either:
(i) Has at least three years’ experience as a remodeling contractor, general contractor or home inspector; or
(ii) Is a state-licensed architect or state-licensed engineer;
(2) If located in a state that requires the licensing of home inspectors, the consultant must submit proof of such licensing;
(3) The consultant must submit a narrative description of the consultant’s ability to perform home inspections, prepare architectural drawings, use proper methods of cost estimating and complete draw inspections.
(4) The consultant must certify that it has read and fully understands the requirements of the HUD handbook on the 203(k) Program (4240.4) and all HUD Mortgagee Letters and other instructions relating to the 203(k) Program.
(5) The consultant must not be listed on:
(i) The General Services Administration’s Suspension and Debarment List;
(ii) HUD’s Limited Denial of Participation List; or
(iii) HUD’s Credit Alert Interactive Voice Response System.
(6) The consultant must have passed a comprehensive examination on the 203(k) Program, if HUD has developed such an exam.
(c) Delayed effective date of examination requirement for consultants currently on the list. Consultants who are included on the list on the date when the requirement for the examination described in paragraph (b)(6) of this section becomes effective have until 6 months following this date to pass the comprehensive exam. Failure to pass the examination by the deadline date constitutes cause for removal under § 200.192.
§ 200.192 Removal of 203(k) consultant.
(a) Cause for removal. HUD may remove a consultant from the list for any cause that HUD determines to be detrimental to HUD or its programs. Cause for removal includes, but is not limited to:
(1) Poor performance on a HUD quality control field review;
(2) Failure to comply with applicable regulations or other written instructions or standards issued by HUD;
(3) Failure to comply with applicable Civil Rights requirements;
(4) Being debarred or suspended, or subject to a limited denial of participation;
(5) Misrepresentation or fraudulent statements;
(6) Failure to retain standing as a state licensed architect or state-licensed engineer (unless the consultant can demonstrate the required three years experience as a home inspector or remodeling contractor);
(7) Failure to retain standing as a state licensed home inspector, if the consultant is located in a state that requires such licensing; or
(8) Failure to respond within a reasonable time to HUD inquiries or requests for documentation.
(b) Procedure for removal. A consultant that is debarred or suspended, or subject to a limited denial of participation will be automatically removed from the list. In all other cases, the following procedure for removal will be followed:
(1) HUD will give the consultant written notice of the proposed removal. The notice will state the reasons for, and the duration of, the proposed removal.
(2) The consultant will have 20 days from the date of the notice (or longer, if provided in the notice) to submit a written response appealing the proposed removal and to request a conference. A request for a conference must be in writing and must be submitted along with the written response.
(3) A HUD official will review the appeal and send a response either affirming, modifying, or canceling the removal. The HUD official will not be someone who was involved in HUD’s initial removal decision. HUD will respond with a decision within 30 days of receiving the appeal or, if the consultant has requested a conference, within 30 days after the completion of the conference. HUD may extend the 30-day period by providing written notice to the consultant.
(4) If the consultant does not submit a timely written response, the removal will be effective 20 days after the date of HUD’s initial removal notice (or after a longer period provided in the notice). If a written response is submitted, and the removal decision is affirmed or modified, the removal will be effective on the date of HUD’s notice affirming or modifying the initial removal decision.
(c) Placement on the list after removal. A consultant that has been removed from the list may apply for placement on the list (in accordance with § 200.191) after the period of the consultant’s removal from the list has expired. An application will be rejected if the period for the consultant’s removal from the list has not expired.
(d) Other action. Nothing in this section prohibits HUD from taking such other action against a consultant, as provided in 2 CFR part 2424, or from seeking any other remedy against a consultant, available to HUD by statute or otherwise.
§ 200.193 Responsibilities of 203(k) consultants on the list.
All consultants included on the list are responsible for:
(a) Obtaining and reading the HUD handbook on the 203(k) Program (4240.4) and any updates to the handbook.
(b) Complying with the HUD handbook on the 203(k) Program (4240.4), and any updates to the handbook, when performing any consultant function under the 203(k) Program.
(c) Obtaining and reading all Mortgagee Letters and other instructions issued by HUD relating to the 203(k) Program.
(d) Complying with all Mortgagee Letters and other instructions issued by HUD relating to the 203(k) Program, when undertaking any consultant function under the 203(k) Program.
(e) Complying with HUD’s request for documentation relating to any 203(k) project on which the consultant has worked.
(f) Complying with HUD’s monitoring requirements relating to the 203(k) Program.
Nonprofit Organization
§ 200.194 Placement of nonprofit organization on Nonprofit Organization Roster.
(a) Nonprofit Organization Roster. HUD maintains a roster of nonprofit organizations that are qualified to participate in certain specified FHA activities. In order to be recognized as a nonprofit organization for purposes of single family regulations in this chapter, an organization must:
(1) Be included in the Roster; and
(2) Comply with any requirements stated in a specific applicable provision of the single family regulations in this chapter.
(b) Application. To be included in the Roster, a nonprofit organization must apply to HUD using an application (or materials) in a form prescribed by HUD (which may require an affordable housing program narrative for the activities the nonprofit organization proposes to carry out). The nonprofit organization must specify in its application the FHA activities it proposes to carry out.
(c) HUD response to application. HUD’s review of the application will result in one of the following:
(1) Approval of the nonprofit organization to participate in all, or some, of the FHA activities specified in its application and the addition of the nonprofit organization to the Roster.
(2) Rejection due to deficiencies in the application. HUD will provide the nonprofit organization with a period to correct these deficiencies.
(3) Rejection due to the nonprofit organization’s failure to submit a program that complies with applicable single family regulations in this chapter, Mortgagee Letters, or other standards or instructions issued by HUD.
(d) Reapplication after two years. The placement of a nonprofit organization on the Roster expires after two years. The nonprofit organization must reapply for placement on the Roster, in accordance with paragraph (b) of this section, before expiration of the two-year period.
§ 200.195 Removal of nonprofit organization from Nonprofit Organization Roster.
(a) Cause for removal. HUD may remove a nonprofit organization from the FHA Nonprofit Organization Roster established under § 200.194. Removal may be for any cause that HUD determines to be detrimental to FHA or any of its programs, including but not limited to:
(1) Failure to comply with applicable single family regulations in this chapter, Mortgagee Letters or other written instructions or standards issued by HUD;
(2) Failure to comply with applicable Civil Rights requirements;
(3) Holding a significant number of FHA-insured mortgages that are in default, foreclosure, or claim status (in determining the number considered “significant,” HUD may compare the number of insured mortgages held by the nonprofit organization against the similar holdings of other nonprofit organizations);
(4) Being debarred or suspended, subject to a limited denial of participation, or otherwise sanctioned by HUD;
(5) Failure to further all objectives described in the affordable housing program narrative;
(6) Misrepresentation or fraudulent statements; or
(7) Failure to respond within a reasonable time to HUD inquiries, including recertification requests or other requests for further documentation.
(b) Procedure for removal. A nonprofit organization that is debarred or suspended or subject to a limited denial of participation will be automatically removed from the FHA Nonprofit Organization Roster. In all other cases, the following procedure for removal applies:
(1) HUD will give the nonprofit organization written notice of the proposed removal. The notice will include the reasons for the proposed removal and the duration of the proposed removal.
(2) The nonprofit organization will have 20 days from the date of the notice (or longer, if provided in the notice) to submit a written response appealing the proposed removal and to request a conference. A request for a conference must be in writing and must be submitted along with the written response.
(3) A HUD official will review the appeal and provide an informal conference if requested. The HUD official will send a response either affirming, modifying, or canceling the removal. The HUD official will not be someone who was involved in HUD’s initial removal decision. HUD will respond with a decision within 30 days of receiving the response, or, if the nonprofit organization has requested a conference, within 30 days after the completion of the conference. HUD may extend the 30-day period by providing written notice to the nonprofit organization.
(4) If the nonprofit organization does not submit a timely written response, the removal will be effective 20 days after the date of HUD’s initial removal notice (or after a longer period provided in the notice). If a written response is submitted, and the initial removal decision is affirmed or modified, the removal will be effective on the date of HUD’s notice affirming or modifying the initial removal decision.
(c) Placement on the Roster after removal. A nonprofit organization that has been removed from the FHA Nonprofit Organization Roster may apply for placement on the Roster (in accordance with § 200.194) after the nonprofit organization’s removal from the Roster has expired. An application will be rejected if the period for the nonprofit organization’s removal from the Roster has not expired.
(d) Other action. Nothing in this section prohibits HUD from taking such other action against a nonprofit organization, as provided in 2 CFR part 2424, or from seeking any other remedy against a nonprofit organization, available to HUD by statute or otherwise.
Subpart G – Appraiser Roster
§ 200.200 What is the Appraiser Roster?
(a) Appraiser Roster. HUD maintains a list of appraisers. A mortgagee must select only an appraiser from this list for the appraisal of a property that is to be the security for an FHA-insured single family mortgage.
(b) Disclaimer. Since an appraisal is performed to determine the maximum insurable mortgage and to also protect the FHA insurance funds, the inclusion of an appraiser on the Appraiser Roster does not create or imply a warranty or endorsement to a prospective homebuyer or to any other organization or individual by HUD of the listed appraiser nor does it represent a warranty of any appraisal performed by the listed appraiser. The inclusion of an appraiser on the Appraiser Roster means only that a listed appraiser has met the qualifications and conditions, prescribed by the Secretary, for inclusion on the Appraiser Roster.
§ 200.202 How do I apply for placement on the Appraiser Roster?
(a) Application. To apply for placement on the Appraiser Roster, you must submit an application to HUD.
(b) Eligibility. To be eligible for placement on the Appraiser Roster:
(1) You must be a state-certified appraiser with credentials that complied with the applicable certification criteria established by the Appraiser Qualification Board (AQB) of the Appraisal Foundation and in effect at the time the certification was awarded by the issuing jurisdiction; and
(2) You must not be listed on:
(i) The General Services Administration’s Suspension and Debarment List;
(ii) HUD’s Limited Denial of Participation List; or
(iii) HUD’s Credit Alert Verification Reporting System.
§ 200.204 What actions may HUD take against unsatisfactory appraisers on the Appraiser Roster?
An unsatisfactory appraiser may be subject to removal, education requirements, or other actions, as follows:
(a) Removal from the Appraiser Roster. HUD officials, as designated by the Secretary, may at any time remove a listed appraiser from the Appraiser Roster for cause, in accordance with paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)(3) of this section. The provisions of paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)(3) of this section do not apply to removal actions taken under any section in 2 CFR part 2424 or to any other remedy against an appraiser, available to HUD by statute or otherwise.
(1) Cause for removal. Cause for removal includes, but is not limited to:
(i) Significant deficiencies in appraisals, including non-compliance with Civil Rights requirements regarding appraisals;
(ii) Losing standing as a state-certified appraiser due to disciplinary action in any state in which the appraiser is certified;
(iii) Prosecution for committing, attempting to commit, or conspiring to commit fraud, misrepresentation, or any other offense that may reflect on the appraiser’s character or integrity;
(iv) Failure to perform appraisal functions in accordance with instructions and standards issued by HUD;
(v) Failure to comply with any agreement made between the appraiser and HUD or with any certification made by the appraiser;
(vi) Being issued a final debarment, suspension, or limited denial of participation;
(vii) Failure to maintain eligibility requirements for placement on the Appraiser Roster as set forth under this subpart or any other instructions or standards issued by HUD; or,
(viii) Failure to comply with HUD-imposed education requirements under paragraph (d) of this section within the specified period for complying with such education requirements.
(2) Procedure for removal. If you are a listed appraiser and HUD decides to remove you for cause from the Appraiser Roster, the following procedure applies to you unless you have been issued a final debarment, suspension, or limited denial of participation, in which case you are subject to paragraph (a)(3) of this section:
(i) You will be given written notice of your proposed removal. The notice will include the reasons for your proposed removal and the duration of your proposed removal.
(ii) You will have 20 days from the date of your notice of proposed removal to submit a written response appealing the proposed removal and to request a conference. A request for a conference must be in writing and must be submitted along with a written response.
(iii) Within 30 days of receiving your written response, or if you have requested a conference, within 30 days after the completion of your conference, a HUD official, designated by the Secretary, will review your appeal and will send you a final decision either affirming, modifying, or canceling your removal from the Appraiser Roster. HUD may extend this time upon giving you notice. The HUD official designated by the Secretary to review your appeal will not be someone involved in HUD’s initial removal decision nor will it be someone who reports to a person involved in that initial decision.
(iv) If you do not submit a written response, your removal will be effective 20 days after the date of HUD’s initial removal notice. If you submit a written response, and the removal decision is affirmed or modified, your removal or modification will be effective on the date of HUD’s notice affirming or modifying the initial removal decision.
(3) Automatic removal for issuance of final debarment, suspension, or limited denial of participation. If you are a listed appraiser and you have been issued a final debarment, a suspension, or a limited denial of participation, the provisions of paragraph (a)(2) of this section do not apply to you, and you will be automatically removed from the Appraiser Roster.
(b) Reinstatement. If an appraiser who has been removed from the Roster wants to be reinstated on the Roster, the appraiser must follow the procedures and requirements contained in this subpart for placement on the Roster. Before an appraiser is eligible to reapply for placement on the Roster, the appraiser shall comply with the terms of any applicable remedial training education requirements, and the time period for the appraiser’s removal from the Roster shall have expired.
(c) Automatic suspension from Appraiser Roster – (1) Appraisers subject to state disciplinary action. An appraiser whose state certification in any state has been revoked, suspended, or surrendered as a result of a state disciplinary action is automatically suspended from the Appraiser Roster and prohibited from conducting FHA appraisals in any state until HUD receives evidence demonstrating that the state-imposed sanction has been lifted.
(2) Expirations not due to state disciplinary action. An appraiser whose certification in a state has expired is automatically suspended from the Appraiser Roster in that state and may not conduct FHA appraisals in that state until HUD receives evidence that demonstrates renewal, but may continue to perform FHA appraisals in other states in which the appraiser is certified.
(d) Education requirements. Where there is evidence that an appraiser is deficient in FHA appraisal requirements, HUD may require an appraiser to undergo professional training.
(e) Other action. Nothing in this section prohibits HUD from taking any other action against an appraiser, as provided under 2 CFR part 2424, or from seeking any other remedy against an appraiser, available to HUD by statute or otherwise.
§ 200.206 What are my responsibilities as an appraiser listed on the Appraiser Roster?
All appraisers listed on the Appraiser Roster are responsible for:
(a) Obtaining and reading the HUD Appraiser Handbook (4150.2) and any updates to the Handbook;
(b) Complying with the HUD Appraiser Handbook (4150.2), and any updates to the Handbook, when performing all appraisals of properties for HUD single family mortgage insurance purposes; and
(c) Complying with all other instructions and standards issued by HUD when performing all appraisals of properties for HUD single family mortgage insurance purposes.
Subpart H – Participation and Compliance Requirements
§ 200.210 Policy.
(a) Regulations. It is HUD’s policy that, in accordance with the intent of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.), and with other applicable federal statutes, participants in HUD’s housing and healthcare programs be responsible individuals and organizations who will honor their legal, financial and contractual obligations. Accordingly, as provided in this subpart, HUD will review the prior participation of Controlling Participants, as defined in § 200.212 and § 200.216, as a prerequisite to participation in HUD’s multifamily housing and healthcare programs listed in § 200.214.
(b) Processing Guide. The regulations in this subpart are supplemented by the Processing Guide for Previous Participation Reviews of Prospective Multifamily Housing and Healthcare Programs’ Participants (Guide), which is found on HUD’s Web site at www.hud.gov. This Guide elaborates on the basic procedures involved in the previous participation review process. For any significant changes made to this Guide, HUD will provide advance notice and the opportunity to comment, providing a comment period of no less than 30 days.
§ 200.212 Definitions.
As used in this subpart:
Commissioner means the Assistant Secretary for Housing-Federal Housing Commissioner, or the Commissioner’s delegates and designees.
Controlling Participant means an individual or entity serving in a capacity for a Covered Project that makes the individual or entity subject to Previous Participation review under this subpart, as further described in § 200.216.
Covered Project means a project in which the participation of a Controlling Participant is conditioned on Previous Participation review under this subpart, as further described in § 200.214.
Previous Participation means a Controlling Participant’s previous participation in Covered Projects, and, if applicable, other federal, state and local housing programs, in accordance with the definition of Risk.
Risk. In order to determine whether a Controlling Participant’s participation in a project would constitute an unacceptable risk, the Commissioner must determine whether the Controlling Participant could be expected to participate in the Covered Project in a manner consistent with furthering the Department’s purposes. The Commissioner’s review of Previous Participation shall consider compliance with applicable statutes, regulations and program requirements. The Commissioner must consider the Controlling Participant’s previous financial and operational performance in Covered Projects that may indicate a financial or operating risk in approving the Controlling Participant’s participation in the subject Triggering Event. At the Commissioner’s discretion, as necessary to determine financial or operating risk and to the extent the Commissioner determines such information to be reliably available, the Commissioner may consider the Controlling Participant’s participation and performance in any federal, state or local government program. The Commissioner may exclude any Previous Participation the Commissioner determines to be of limited value, unreliable or irrelevant in evaluating risk and/or any Previous Participation in which the Controlling Participant did not exercise, actually or constructively, control. Any information collection in connection with review of Previous Participation must follow all applicable requirements for information collection.
Triggering Event means an occurrence in connection with a Covered Project that subjects a Controlling Participant to Previous Participation review under this subpart, as further described in § 200.218.
§ 200.214 Covered Projects.
The following types of multifamily and healthcare projects are Covered Projects subject to the requirements of this subpart, provided however that single family projects are excluded from the definition of Covered Projects:
(a) FHA insured projects. A project financed or which is proposed to be financed with a mortgage insured under the National Housing Act, a project subject to a mortgage held by the Secretary under the National Housing Act, or a project acquired by the Secretary under the National Housing Act.
(b) Housing for the elderly or persons with disabilities. Housing for the elderly financed or to be financed with direct loans or capital advances under section 202 of the Housing Act of 1959, as amended; and housing for persons with disabilities under section 811 of the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act.
(c) Risk Share projects. A project that is insured under section 542(b) or 542(c) of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1992(12 U.S.C. 17107 note).
(d) Projects subject to continuing HUD requirements. A project that is subject to a use agreement or any other affordability restrictions pursuant to a program administered by HUD’s Office of Housing.
(e) Subsidized Projects. Any project in which 20 percent or more of the units now receive or will receive a subsidy in the form of:
(1) Interest reduction payments under section 236 of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1715z-1);
(2) Rental Assistance Payments under section 236 of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1715z-1);
(3) Rent Supplement payments under section 101 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1965 (12 U.S.C. 1701s); or
(4) Project-based housing assistance payment contracts under section 8 of the United States Housing Act of 1937 (42 U.S.C. 1437f) administered by HUD’s Office of Housing.
§ 200.216 Controlling Participants.
(a) Definition. Controlling Participants are those entities and individuals (i) serving as a Specified Capacity with respect to a Covered Project and (ii) the entities and individuals in control of the Specified Capacities. Each of the following capacities for a Covered Project is a “Specified Capacity:”
(1) An owner of a Covered Project;
(2) A borrower of a loan financing a Covered Project;
(3) A management agent;
(4) An operator (in connection with healthcare projects insured under the following section of the National Housing Act: Section 232 (12 U.S.C. 1715w) and section 242 (12 U.S.C. 1715z-7));
(5) A master tenant (in connection with any multifamily housing project insured under the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) and in connection with certain healthcare projects insured under sections 232 or section 242 of the National Housing Act);
(6) A general contractor; and
(7) In connection with a hospital project insured under section 242 of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1715z-7), a construction manager;
(b) Control of entities. To the extent any Specified Capacity listed in paragraph (a) of this section is an entity, any individual(s) or entities determined by HUD to control the financial or operational decisions of such Specified Capacity shall also be considered Controlling Participants. Without limiting the foregoing and unless otherwise determined by HUD, the following individuals or entities shall be considered Controlling Participants:
(1) Individuals or entities with the ability to direct the day-to-day operations of a Specified Capacity or a Covered Project;
(2) Individuals or entities that own at least 25 percent of an entity that is a Specified Capacity;
(3) Individuals or entities with the ability to direct the entity to enter into agreements relating to the Triggering Event that necessitates review of Previous Participation, including without limitation individuals or entities that own at least 25 percent of entities determined to control an entity that is a Specified Capacity; and
(4) In connection with a hospital project insured under section 242 of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1715z-7), members of a hospital Board of Directors (or similar body) and executive management (such as the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer) that HUD determines to have control over the finances or operation of a Covered Project.
(c) Exclusions from definition. The following individuals or entities are not Controlling Participants for purposes of this subpart:
(1) Passive investors and investor entities with limited liability in Covered Projects benefiting from tax credits, including but not limited to low-income housing tax credits pursuant to section 42 of title 26 of the United States Code, whether such investors are syndicators, direct investors or investors in such syndicators and/or investors;
(2) Individuals or entities that do not exercise financial or operational control over the Covered Project, a Specified Capacity or another Controlling Participant;
(3) Unless determined by HUD to exercise day-to-day control over the operations or finances of a Specified Capacity or Covered Project, board members of a non-profit corporation who are not officers or otherwise part of the executive management teams of the non-profit;
(4) Mortgagees acting in their capacity as such; and
(5) Public housing agencies (PHAs).
§ 200.218 Triggering Events.
(a) Each of the following is a Triggering Event that may subject a Controlling Participant to Previous Participation review under § 200.220:
(1) An application for FHA mortgage insurance;
(2) An application for funds provided by HUD pursuant to a program administered by HUD’s Office of Housing, such as but not limited to supplemental loans;
(3) A request to change any Controlling Participant for which HUD consent is required with respect to a Covered Project; or
(4) A request for consent to an assignment of a housing assistance payment contract under section 8 of the United States Housing Act of 1937 or of another contract pursuant to which a Controlling Participant will receive funds in connection with a Covered Project.
(b) The Commissioner may also require a review of a potential owner’s Previous Participation in connection with a loan sale or other form of property disposition, including foreclosure sale. Notwithstanding anything contained in the regulations in this subpart to the contrary, any such review shall be in accordance with the terms, conditions, provisions and other requirements set forth by the Commissioner in connection with such loan sale or property disposition which may differ, in whole or in part, from the regulations in this subpart.
§ 200.220 Previous Participation review.
(a) Scope of review. (1) Upon the occurrence of a Triggering Event, as provided in § 200.218, the Commissioner shall review the Previous Participation of the relevant Controlling Participants in considering whether to approve the participation of the Controlling Participants in connection with the Triggering Event in accordance with the definition of Risk in § 200.212.
(2) The Commissioner will not review Previous Participation for interests acquired by inheritance or by court decree.
(3) In connection with the submittal of an application for any Triggering Event, applicants shall identify the Controlling Participants and, to the extent requested by HUD, make available to HUD the Controlling Participant’s Previous Participation in Covered Projects.
(b) Results of review. (1) Based upon the review under paragraph (a) of this section, the Commissioner will approve, disapprove, limit, or otherwise condition the continued participation of the Controlling Participant in the Triggering Event, in accordance with paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section.
(2) The Commissioner shall provide notice of the determination to the Controlling Participant including the reasons for disapproval or limitation. The Commissioner may provide notice of the determination to other parties as well, such the FHA-approved lender in the transaction.
(c) Basis for disapproval. (1) The Commissioner must disapprove a Controlling Participant if the Commissioner determines that the Controlling Participant is suspended, debarred or subject to other restriction pursuant to 2 CFR part 180 or 2 CFR part 2424;
(2) The Commissioner may disapprove a Controlling Participant if the Commissioner determines:
(i) The Controlling Participant is materially restricted, including voluntarily, from doing business with HUD (other than the restrictions listed in paragraph (c)(1) of this section) or any other governmental department or agency if the Commissioner determines that such restriction demonstrates a significant risk to proceeding with the Triggering Event; or
(ii) The Controlling Participant’s record of Previous Participation reveals significant risk to proceeding with the Triggering Event.
(d) Alternatives to disapproval. In lieu of disapproval, the Commissioner may:
(1) Condition or limit the Controlling Participant’s participation;
(2) Temporarily withhold issuing a determination in order to gather more necessary information; or
(3) Require the Controlling Participant to remedy or mitigate outstanding violations of HUD requirements to the Commissioner’s satisfaction in order to participate in the Triggering Event.
§ 200.222 Request for reconsideration.
(a) Where participation in a Triggering Event has been disapproved, otherwise limited or conditioned because of Previous Participation review, the Controlling Participant may request reconsideration of such determination by a review committee or reviewing officer as established by the Commissioner. Reconsideration decisions shall not be rendered by the same individual who rendered the initial review.
(b) The Controlling Participant shall submit requests for such reconsideration in writing within 30 days of receipt of the Commissioner’s notice of the determination under § 200.220.
(c) The review committee or reviewing officer shall schedule a review of such requests for reconsideration. The Controlling Participant shall be provided written notification of such a review; such notice shall provide at least 7 business days advanced notice of the reconsideration. The Controlling Participant shall be provided the opportunity to submit such supporting materials as the Controlling Participant desires or as the review committee or reviewing officer requests.
(d) Before making its decision, the review committee or reviewing officer will analyze the reasons for the decision(s) for which reconsideration is being requested, as well as the documents and arguments presented by the Controlling Participant. The review committee or reviewing officer may affirm, modify, or reverse the initial decision. Upon making its decision, the review committee or reviewing officer will provide written notice of its determination to the Controlling Participant setting forth the reasons for the determination(s).
Subpart I – Nondiscrimination and Fair Housing
§ 200.300 Nondiscrimination and fair housing policy.
Federal Housing Administration programs shall be administered in accordance with:
(a) The nondiscrimination and fair housing requirements set forth in 24 CFR part 5, including the prohibition on inquiries regarding sexual orientation or gender identity set forth in 24 CFR 5.105(a)(2); and
(b) The affirmative fair housing marketing requirements in 24 CFR part 200, subpart M and 24 CFR part 108.
Subpart J – Equal Employment Opportunity
§ 200.400 Purpose.
The purpose of this subpart is to assist in achieving the aims of part III of Executive Order 11246 and the relevant regulations of the Secretary of Labor and the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development.
§ 200.405 Notice to public.
Participants in insurance programs under the National Housing Act shall be informed, as early as possible upon indicating their interest in any such program, of the established policy of nondiscrimination in employment in construction, repair or rehabilitation work financed with assistance under the Act.
§ 200.410 Definition of term “applicant”.
(a) In any mortgage or loan insurance transaction under this chapter where the Commissioner will control the mortgagor either through the ownership of corporate stock or under the provisions of a regulatory agreement, the term applicant as used in § 200.415 shall mean the mortgagor.
(b) In any transaction other than one specified in paragraph (a) of this section, the term applicant as used in § 200.415 shall mean the developer, or the builder, dealer or contractor performing the construction, repair or rehabilitation work for the property owner.
§ 200.415 Agreement of applicant.
An applicant, prior to the Commissioner’s issuance of any commitment or other loan approval, shall agree (in a form prescribed by the Commissioner) that there shall be no discrimination against anyone who is employed in carrying out work receiving assistance pursuant to this chapter, or against an applicant for such employment, because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, age, or national origin.
§ 200.420 Equal opportunity clause to be included in contracts and subcontracts.
(a) The equal opportunity clause prescribed by the Commissioner pursuant to the regulations of the Secretary of Labor (41 CFR chapter 60) shall be included in each nonexempt contract and subcontract for work receiving FHA assistance.
(b) Subcontracts less than $50,000 may incorporate by reference the equal opportunity clause.
(c) The equal opportunity clause shall be deemed to be a part of each nonexempt contract or subcontract whether or not it is physically incorporated in such contract.
§ 200.425 Exemptions.
(a) Transactions of $10,000 or under. Contracts and subcontracts not exceeding $10,000 are exempt from the requirements of the equal opportunity clause. No contractor or subcontractor shall procure supplies or services in less than usual quantities to avoid applicability of the equal opportunity clause.
(b) Contracts and subcontracts for indefinite quantities. Contracts and subcontracts for indefinite quantities are exempt from the requirements of the equal opportunity clause if the amount to be ordered in a single year under any such contract will not exceed $10,000.
(c) Work outside the United States. Contracts and subcontracts with regard to work performed outside the United States by employees who were not recruited within the United States are exempt from the requirements of the equal opportunity clause.
(d) Others. Other exemptions set forth in the regulations of the Secretary of Labor at 41 CFR 60-1.5 apply to transactions under this subpart.
§ 200.430 Sanctions.
Failure or refusal to comply and give satisfactory assurances of future compliance with the requirements of this subpart shall be proper basis for applying sanctions. The sanctions shall be applied in accordance with the provisions of Executive Order 11246 and the relevant regulations of the Secretary of Labor.
Subparts K-L [Reserved]
Subpart M – Affirmative Fair Housing Marketing Regulations
§ 200.600 Purpose.
The purpose of this subpart is to set forth the Department’s equal opportunity regulations for affirmative fair housing marketing under FHA subsidized and unsubsidized housing programs.
§ 200.605 Authority.
The regulations in this subpart are issued pursuant to the authority to issue regulations granted to the Secretary by section 7(d) of the Department of Housing and Urban Development Act of 1965, 42 U.S.C. 3535(d), and implement the functions, powers, and duties imposed on the Secretary by Executive Order 11063, 27 FR 11527, and title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 3608.
§ 200.610 Policy.
It is the policy of the Department to administer its FHA housing programs affirmatively, as to achieve a condition in which individuals of similar income levels in the same housing market area have a like range of housing choices available to them regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin. Each applicant for participation in FHA subsidized and unsubsidized housing programs shall pursue affirmative fair housing marketing policies in soliciting buyers and tenants, in determining their eligibility, and in concluding sales and rental transactions.
§ 200.615 Applicability.
The affirmative fair housing marketing requirements, as set forth in paragraphs (a) through (f) of § 200.620, shall apply to all applicants for participation in FHA subsidized and unsubsidized housing programs whose application is hereafter approved for development or rehabilitation of:
(a) Multifamily projects and manufactured home parks of five or more lots, units or spaces, and initial submissions by a lender for an application for mortgage insurance on a single family property, where the property is located in a subdivision and the builder or developer intends to sell five or more properties in the subdivision; or
(b) Dwelling units, when the applicant’s participation in FHA housing programs had exceeded or would thereby exceed development of five or more such dwelling units during the year preceding the application, except that there shall not be included in a determination of the number of dwelling units developed by an applicant those in which a single family dwelling is constructed or rehabilitated for occupancy by a mortgagor on property owned by the mortgagor and in which the applicant had no interest prior to entering into the contract for construction or rehabilitation.
§ 200.620 Requirements.
With respect to all FHA subsidized or unsubsidized programs in which the applicant hereafter participates (except for housing for which a conditional commitment has been issued prior to the effective date of these regulations), the applicant shall meet the following requirements or, if he contracts marketing responsibility to another party, be responsible for that party’s carrying out the requirements:
(a) Carry out an affirmative program to attract buyers or tenants, regardless of sex, handicap or familial status, of all minority and majority groups to the housing for initial sale or rental. An affirmative marketing program shall be in effect for each multifamily project throughout the life of the mortgage. Such a program shall typically involve publicizing to minority persons the availability of housing opportunities regardless of race, color, religion, sex, handicap or familial status or national origin, through the type of media customarily utilized by the applicant, including minority publications or other minority outlets which are available in the housing market area. All advertising shall include either the Department-approved Equal Housing Opportunity logo or slogan or statement and all advertising depicting persons shall depict persons of majority and minority groups, including both sexes.
(b) Maintain a nondiscriminatory hiring policy in recruiting from both minority and majority groups, including both sexes and the handicapped, for staff engaged in the sale or rental of properties.
(c) Instruct all employees and agents in writing and orally in the policy of nondiscrimination and fair housing.
(d) Specifically solicit eligible buyers or tenants reported to the applicant by the Area or Insuring Office.
(e) Prominently display in all offices in which sale or rental activity pertaining to the project or subdivision takes place the Department-approved Fair Housing Poster and include in any printed material used in connection with sales or rentals, the Department-approved Equal Housing Opportunity logo or slogan or statement.
(f) Post in a conspicuous position on all FHA project sites a sign displaying prominently either the Department-approved Equal Housing Opportunity logo or slogan or statement.
§ 200.625 Affirmative fair housing marketing plan.
Each applicant for participation in FHA housing programs to which these regulations apply shall provide on a form to be supplied by the Department information indicating his affirmative fair housing marketing plan to comply with the requirements set forth in § 200.620. This form, once approved by HUD, will be available for public inspection at the sales or rental offices of the applicant.
§ 200.630 Notice of housing opportunities.
The Director of each Field Office shall prepare monthly a list of all projects covered by this subpart, and of all initial submissions by lenders for single family mortgage insurance where the property is located in a subdivision and the builder or developer intends to sell five or more properties in the subdivision, on which commitments have been issued during the preceding 30 days. The Director shall maintain a roster of interested organizations and individuals (including public agencies responsible for providing relocation assistance and local housing authorities) who have expressed a wish to receive the monthly list, and shall provide the list to these organizations and individuals.
§ 200.635 Compliance.
Applicants failing to comply with the requirements of this subpart will make themselves liable to sanctions authorized by regulations, rules or policies governing the program pursuant to which the application was made, including but not limited to denial of further participation in departmental programs and referral to the Department of Justice for suit by the United States for injunctive or other appropriate relief. The Department will enforce compliance through the procedures outlined in 24 CFR part 108.
§ 200.640 Effect on other requirements.
The requirement for compliance with this part is in addition to, and not in substitution for, any other requirements imposed by or under Executive Order 11063 or the Fair Housing Act.
Appendix to Subpart M of Part 200 – Equal Housing Opportunity Insignia
The Equal Housing Opportunity insignia are as follows:
Equal Housing Opportunity logo:
Equal Housing Opportunity statement: “We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. We encourage and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.”
Equal Housing Opportunity slogan: “Equal Housing Opportunity.”
Subpart N [Reserved]
Subpart O – Lead-Based Paint Poisoning Prevention
§ 200.800 Lead-based paint.
The Lead-Based Paint Poisoning Prevention Act (42 U.S.C. 4821-4846), the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992 (42 U.S.C. 4851-4856), and implementing regulations at part 35, subparts A, B, F, G, I, and R of this title, apply to activities under these programs, except for single family mortgage insurance and guarantee programs. Sections 200.805 and 200.810 apply to single family mortgage insurance and guarantee programs administered by HUD.
§ 200.805 Definitions.
Applicable surface. All intact and nonintact interior and exterior painted surfaces of a residential structure.
Defective paint surface. Paint on applicable surfaces that is cracking, scaling, chipping, peeling or loose.
Lead-based paint surface. A paint surface, whether or not defective, identified as having a lead content greater than or equal to 1 mg/cm
§ 200.810 Single family insurance and coinsurance.
(a) General. (1) The requirements of this section apply to any one-to four-family dwelling which was constructed before 1978 and is the subject of an application for mortgage insurance under section 203(b) or other sections of the National Housing Act relating to the insurance or coinsurance of mortgages on one-to-four-family dwellings. Such other sections include:
(i) Section 244 (coinsurance);
(ii) Section 213 (cooperative housing insurance);
(iii) Section 220 (rehabilitation and neighborhood conservation housing insurance);
(iv) Section 221 (housing for moderate income and displaced families);
(v) Section 222 (mortgagor insurance for servicemen);
(vi) Section 809 (armed services housing for civilian employees);
(vii) Section 810 (armed services housing in impacted areas);
(viii) Section 234 (mortgage insurance for condominiums);
(ix) Section 235 (mortgage assistance payments for home ownership and project rehabilitation);
(x) Section 237 (special mortgage insurance for low and moderate income families); and
(xi) Section 240 (mortgage insurance on loans for purchase of fee simple title from lessors).
(2) [Reserved]
(3) Applications for insurance in connection with a refinancing transaction where an appraisal is not required under the applicable procedures established by the Commissioner are excluded from the coverage of this section. Any housing assisted under the programs set out in this section for which no new activity is applied for or required is not covered by this section.
(b) Appraisal. The appraiser shall, when appraising a dwelling constructed prior to 1978, inspect the dwelling for defective paint surfaces.
(c) Treatment of defective paint surfaces. For defective paint surfaces, treatment shall be provided to defective areas. Treatment of hazards shall consist of covering or removing defective paint surfaces. Covering may be accomplished by such means as adding a layer of wallboard to the wall surface. Depending on the wall condition, wallcoverings which are permanently attached may be used. Covering or replacing trim surfaces is also permitted. Paint removal may be accomplished by such methods as scraping, heat treatment (infra-red or coil type heat guns) or chemicals. Machine sanding and use of propane or gasoline torches (open-flame methods) are not permitted. Washing and repainting without thorough removal or covering does not constitute adequate treatment. In the case of defective paint spots, scraping and repainting the defective area is considered adequate treatment. Treatment of a defective paint surface is not required if such a surface is found to not be a lead-based paint surface by a lead-based paint inspector certified pursuant to procedures of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency at 40 CFR part 745.
(d) Home equity conversion mortgage insurance. The requirements of this section, as modified by the following sentence, apply to a dwelling which is the subject of an application for mortgage insurance under section 255 of the National Housing Act (home equity conversion insurance) unless the mortgagor provides the certification described in § 206.45(d) of this title. The defective paint surface may be treated after the mortgage is endorsed for insurance, provided that the defective paint surface is treated as expeditiously as possible in accordance with the repair work provisions contained in § 206.47 of this title.
Subpart P – Physical Condition of Multifamily Properties
§ 200.850 Purpose.
The purpose of this subpart is to establish the physical conditions standards and physical inspection requirements that are applicable to certain multifamily housing properties.
§ 200.853 Applicability.
This subpart applies to:
(a) Housing assisted by HUD under the following programs:
(1) All Section 8 project-based assistance. “Project-based assistance” means Section 8 assistance that is attached to the structure (see 24 CFR 982.1(b)(1) regarding the distinction between “project-based” and “tenant-based” assistance);
(2) Section 202 Program of Supportive Housing for the Elderly (Capital Advances);
(3) Section 811 Program of Supportive Housing for Persons with Disabilities (Capital Advances); and
(4) Section 202 loan program for projects for the elderly and handicapped (including 202/8 projects and 202/162 projects).
(b) Housing with mortgages insured or held by HUD, or housing that is receiving insurance from HUD, under the following authorities:
(1) Section 207 of the National Housing Act (NHA) (12 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) (Rental Housing Insurance);
(2) Section 213 of the NHA (Cooperative Housing Insurance);
(3) Section 220 of the NHA (Rehabilitation and Neighborhood Conservation Housing Insurance);
(4) Section 221(d)(3) of the NHA (Market Interest Rate (MIR) Program);
(5) Section 221(d)(3) and (5) of the NHA (Below Market Interest Rate (BMIR) Program);
(6) Section 221(d)(4) of the NHA (Housing for Moderate Income and Displaced Families);
(7) Section 231 of the NHA (Housing for Elderly Persons);
(8) Section 232 of the NHA (Mortgage Insurance for Nursing Homes, Intermediate Care Facilities, Assisted Living Facilities, Board and Care Homes);
(9) Section 234(d) of the NHA (Rental) (Mortgage Insurance for Condominiums);
(10) Section 236 of the NHA (Rental and Cooperative Housing for Lower Income Families);
(11) Section 241 of the NHA (Supplemental Loans for Multifamily Projects). (Where, however, the primary mortgage of a Section 241 property is insured or assisted by HUD under a program covered in this part, the coverage by two HUD programs does not trigger two inspections); and
(12) Section 542(c) of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1992 (12 U.S.C. 1707 note) (Housing Finance Agency Risk Sharing Program).
§ 200.855 Physical condition standards and physical inspection requirements.
(a) Applicable standards and requirements. The physical condition standards and physical inspection requirements in 24 CFR part 5, subpart G, are applicable to the properties assisted or insured that are listed in § 200.853.
(b) Entity responsible for inspection of property. The regulations that govern the programs listed in § 200.853, or regulatory agreements or contracts, identify the entity responsible for conducting the physical inspection of the property which is HUD, the lender or the owner. For properties with more than one HUD insured loan, only the first mortgage lender is required to conduct the physical inspection. The second mortgage lender will be provided a copy of the physical inspection report by the first mortgage lender.
(c) Timing of inspections. (1) For a property subject to an annual inspection under this subpart, the inspection shall be conducted no earlier than 9 months and no later than 15 months from the date of the last required inspection. In no event, however, shall the physical inspection be conducted after the end of the calendar year following the one year anniversary date of the last required inspection.
(2) For a property subject to an inspection every two years under this subpart, the inspection shall be conducted no earlier than 21 months and no later than 27 months from the date of the last required inspection. In no event, however, shall the physical inspection be conducted after the end of the calendar year following the two year anniversary date of the last required inspection.
(3) For a property subject to an inspection every three years under this subpart, the inspection shall be conducted no earlier than 33 months and no later than 39 months from the date of the last required inspection. In no event, however, shall the physical inspection be conducted after the end of the calendar year following the three year anniversary date of the last required inspection.
(4) For a newly endorsed multifamily property, the first inspection required under this subpart will be conducted no earlier than 21 months but not later than 27 months from the date of final endorsement. In no event, however, shall the inspection be conducted after the end of the calendar year following the two year anniversary date of final endorsement.
(5)(i) For assisted-living facilities, board and care facilities, and intermediate care facilities, the initial inspection required under this subpart will be conducted within the same time restrictions set forth in paragraph (c)(4) of this section, and any further inspections will be conducted at a frequency determined consistent with § 200.857, except that HUD may exempt such facilities from physical inspections under this part if HUD determines that the State or local government has a reliable and adequate inspection system in place, with the results of the inspection being readily and timely available to HUD; and
(ii) For any other Section 232 facilities, the inspection will be conducted only when and if HUD determines, on the basis of information received, such as through a complaint, site inspection, or referral by a State agency, on a case-by-case basis, that inspection of a particular facility is needed to assure protection of the residents or the adequate preservation of the project.
§ 200.857 Administrative process for scoring and ranking the physical condition of multifamily housing properties.
(a) Scoring and ranking of the physical condition of multifamily housing properties. (1) HUD’s Real Estate Assessment Center (REAC) will score and rank the physical condition of certain multifamily housing insured properties listed in § 200.853 in accordance with the procedures described in this section. The physical condition inspection of the property, upon which REAC bases its score and ranking, is conducted by the responsible entity in accordance with § 200.855.
(2) Depending upon the results of its physical condition inspection, a multifamily housing property will be assigned one of three designations – standard 1 performing, standard 2 performing and standard 3 performing – in accordance with the ranking process described in paragraph (b) of this section.
(b) Methodology for Ranking. (1) Multifamily housing properties will be ranked in accordance with the methodology provided in this paragraph (b). Multifamily housing properties are scored on the basis of a 100 point scale. Because scores may include fractions, a score that includes a fraction below one half point will be rounded to the next lower full point and a score that includes a fraction of one half point or higher will be rounded to the next higher full point (e.g., 89.4 will be rounded to 89, 89.5 will be rounded to 90).
(i) Standard 1 Performing Property. If a property receives a score of 90 points or higher on its physical condition inspection, the property will be designated a standard 1 performing property. Properties designated as standard 1 performing properties will be required to undergo a physical inspection once every three (3) years.
(ii) Standard 2 Performing Property. If a property receives a score of 80 points or higher but less than 90 on its physical condition inspection, the property will be designated a standard 2 performing property. Properties designated as standard 2 performing properties will be required to undergo a physical inspection once every two (2) years.
(iii) Standard 3 Performing Property. If a property receives a score of less than 80 points, the property will be designated a standard 3 performing property. Properties designated as standard 3 performing properties will continue to undergo an annual physical inspection as currently required under covered HUD programs.
(2) Owners of multifamily housing properties scoring in a standard 1 or standard 2 range which have been cited by the REAC as having a Exigent Health and Safety (EHS) deficiency(s) must resolve the deficiency(s), as required by paragraph (c)(2) of this section, to be classified as standard 1 and standard 2 properties.
(3) Regardless of the performance designation assigned to an owner’s property, an owner is obligated to maintain its property in accordance with HUD’s uniform physical condition standards as required by 24 CFR part 5, subpart G, the Regulatory Agreement and/or the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) Contract. Good management principles require an owner to conduct routine inspections of its projects, develop improvement plans, and again, maintain its property to meet the standard of decent, safe, sanitary and in good repair.
(c) Owner’s review of physical inspection report and identification of objectively verifiable and material error. (1) Upon completion of a physical inspection of a multifamily housing property, the REAC will provide the owner or owner’s representative, on the date of the physical inspection, notice of any items classified as EHS deficiencies. REAC also will provide the owner with the entire physical inspection report (electronically through the internet or by mail approximately 10 working days from the date of the report), which provides the physical inspection results and other information relevant to the inspection, including any items classified as EHS deficiencies and already provided to the owner, on the date of the inspection (EHS deficiencies are relayed by the inspector on the date of the inspection).
(2) The owner must carefully review the physical inspection report, particularly those items classified as EHS. The owner is also responsible for conducting its own survey of the total project based on the REAC’s physical inspection findings. The owner must mitigate all EHS items immediately, and the owner must file a written report with the applicable Multifamily Hub Director within 3 business days of the date of the inspection, which is the date the owner was provided with the EHS notice. The report filed by the owner must provide a certification and reasonable evidence that the EHS items have been resolved.
(3) If, following review of the physical inspection results and score, the owner reasonably believes that an objectively verifiable and material error (or errors) occurred in the inspection, which, if corrected, will result in a significant improvement in the property’s overall score (“significant improvement” is defined in paragraph (d)(4) of this section), the owner may submit a written request for a technical review. The technical review request must be received in writing no later than 30 calendar days (as established by the postmark, if applicable) from the date the physical inspection results are transmitted to the owner by REAC, whether the results and score are transmitted to the owner via the Internet or by hard copy via certified mail.
(d) Technical review of physical inspection results. A request for a technical review of physical inspection results must be submitted in writing to REAC and must be received by REAC no later than the 30th calendar day, as applicable under paragraph (c)(3) of this section, following submission of the physical inspection report to the owner, as provided in paragraph (c)(1) of this section.
(1) Request for technical review. The request must be accompanied by the owner’s reasonable evidence that an objectively verifiable and material error (or errors) occurred which if corrected will result in a significant improvement in the overall score of the owner’s property. A technical review of physical inspection results will not be conducted based on conditions that were corrected subsequent to the inspection. Upon receipt of this request from the owner, the REAC will review the physical inspection and the owner’s evidence. If the REAC’s review determines that an objectively verifiable and material error (or errors) has been documented and that it is likely to result in a significant improvement in the property’s overall score, the REAC will take one or a combination of the following actions: undertake a new inspection; correct the original inspection; or issue a new physical condition score.
(2) Burden of proof that error occurred rests with owner. The burden of proof rests with the owner to demonstrate that an objectively verifiable and material error (or errors) occurred in the REAC’s inspection through submission of evidence, which if corrected will result in a significant improvement in the property’s overall score. To support its request for a technical review of the physical inspection results, the owner may submit photographic evidence, written material from an objective source such as a local fire marshal or building code official, or other similar evidence.
(3) Material errors. An objectively verifiable material error must be present to allow for a technical review of physical inspection results. Material errors are those that exhibit specific characteristics and meet specific thresholds. The three types of material errors are as follows.
(i) Building data error. A building data error occurs if the inspection includes the wrong building or a building that was not owned by the property, including common or site areas that were not a part of the property. Incorrect building data that does not affect the score, such as the address, building name, year built, etc., would not be considered material, but is of great interest to HUD and will be corrected upon notice to the REAC.
(ii) Unit count error. A unit count error occurs if the total number of units considered in scoring is incorrect. Since scoring uses total units, the REAC will examine instances where the participant can provide evidence that the total units used is incorrect.
(iii) A non-existent deficiency error. A non-existent deficiency error occurs if the inspection cites a deficiency that does not exist.
(4) Significant improvement. Significant improvement refers to the correction of a material error, asserted by the owner, which causes the score for the owner’s property to cross an administratively significant threshold (for example, the property would be redesignated from standard 3 performing to standard 2 performing or from standard 2 performing to standard 1 performing), or to result in an increase of 10 points or more.
(5) Determining whether material error occurred and what action is warranted. Upon receipt of the owner’s request for technical review of a property’s physical inspection results, the REAC will evaluate the owner’s property file and the evidence provided by the owner that an objectively verifiable and material error occurred which, if corrected, would result in a significant improvement in the property’s overall score. If the REAC’s evaluation determines that an objectively verifiable and material error (or errors) has been reasonably documented by the owner and if corrected would result in a significant improvement in the property’s overall score, then the REAC shall take one or a combination of the following actions:
(i) Undertake a new inspection;
(ii) Correct the inspection report; or
(iii) Issue a new physical condition score.
(6) Responsibility for the cost of a new inspection. If a new inspection is undertaken by the REAC and the new inspection score results in a significant improvement in the property’s overall score, then HUD shall bear the expense of the new inspection. If no significant improvement occurs, then the owner must bear the expense of the new inspection. The inspection cost of a new inspection, if paid by the owner, is not a valid project operating expense. The new inspection score will be considered the final score.
(e) Adjustment of physical condition score based on considerations other than technical review and reinspection. (1) Under certain circumstances, HUD may find it appropriate to review the results of a physical inspection which are anomalous or have an incorrect result due to facts and circumstances affecting the inspected property which are not reflected in the inspection or reflected inappropriately in the inspection. These circumstances include, but are not necessarily limited to, inconsistencies between local code requirements and the HUD physical inspection protocol; conditions which are permitted by variance or license or which are preexisting physical features non-conformities and are inconsistent with the HUD physical condition protocol; or cases where the owner has been scored for elements (e.g., roads, sidewalks, mail boxes, resident owned appliances, etc.) that it does not own and is not responsible for maintaining.
(2) To seek a score adjustment on the basis of these circumstances as provided in paragraph (e) of this section, the owner must submit a request for an adjustment to REAC with appropriate proof of the circumstances that resulted in the incorrect physical conditions results. This process may result in a reinspection and/or rescoring of the inspection after review and approval of the owner’s submission of appropriate proof of the anomalous or inappropriate application.
(3) An owner may submit the request for this adjustment to REAC either prior to or after the physical inspection has been concluded. If the owner submits a request for adjustment after the physical inspection has been concluded, the owner must submit its request to REAC within 45 days following the submission of the physical inspection report, as provided in paragraph (c)(1) of this section. HUD may, but is not required to review a request made after this period has expired.
(4) This adjustment process, provided in this paragraph (g), may result in a reinspection and/or rescoring of the inspection after review and approval of the owner’s submission of appropriate proof of the anomalous or inappropriate application.
(f) Issuance of final score and publication of score. (1) The physical condition score of the property is the final score if the owner files no request for technical review, as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, or for other adjustment of the physical condition score, as provided in paragraph (e) of this section. If the owner files a request for technical review or score adjustments in accordance with paragraphs (c) and (e) of this section, the final physical condition score is the score issued by HUD after any adjustments are determined necessary and made by HUD at the conclusion of these processes.
(2) HUD will make public the final scores of the owners through posting on HUD’s internet site, or through
(g) Owner’s responsibility to notify residents of inspection; and availability of documents to residents – (1) Notification to residents. An owner must notify its residents of any planned physical inspections of their units or the housing development generally.
(2) Availability of documents for review. Once the technical review and database adjustment periods have expired, as provided in paragraphs (d) and (e) of this section, respectively, the owner must make its physical inspection report and all related documents available to its residents during regular business hours upon reasonable request for review and copying. Related documents include the owner’s survey plan, plan of correction, certification and related correspondence.
(i) Once the owner’s final physical condition score is issued and published, the owner must make any additional information, such as the results of any reinspection, appeal requests, available for review and copying by its residents upon reasonable request during regular business hours.
(ii) The owner must maintain the documents related to the physical inspection of the property, as described in this paragraph (g)(2), available for review by residents for a period of 60 days from the date of submission to the owner of the physical condition score for the property in which the residents reside.
(3) The owner must post a notice to the residents in the owner’s management office and on any bulletin boards in all common areas that advises residents of the availability of the materials described in paragraphs (g)(2) of this section. The notice should include the name, address and telephone number of the HUD Project Manager.
(4) Residents are encouraged to comment on this information provided by the owners and submit any comments directly to the applicable Field Office. Should residents discover the owner provided HUD with a false certification during the review they are encouraged to notify the Hub or Program Center where appropriate inquiry and action will be taken.
(h) Administrative review of properties. The file of a multifamily property that receives a score of 30 points or less on its physical condition inspection will be referred to HUD’s Departmental Enforcement Center (DEC) for evaluation. The files of any of the multifamily housing properties may be submitted to the DEC or to the appropriate HUD Multifamily Hub Director (MFD) for evaluation, or both, at the discretion of the Office of Housing.
(1) Notification to owner of submission of property file to the MFD and DEC. The Department will provide for notification to the owner that the file on the owner’s property is being submitted to the MFD and/or the DEC for evaluation. The notification will be provided at the time the REAC issues the physical inspection report to the owner or at such other time as a referral occurs.
(2) 30-Day period for owner to provide the DEC with supporting and relevant information and documentation. The owner has 30 calendar days, from the date of the REAC notification to the owner, to provide comments, proposals, or any other information to the DEC which will assist the MFD and DEC in conducting a comprehensive evaluation of the property. A proposal provided by an owner may include the owner’s plan to correct deficiencies (corrective action plan). During the 30-day response time available to the owner, the DEC may encourage the owner to submit a corrective action plan. The corrective action plan, if timely submitted during the 30-day period (whether on the owner’s initiative or at the request of the DEC), may serve as additional information for the DEC to consider in determining appropriate action to take at the conclusion of the evaluation period. If not submitted during the 30-day response time, a corrective action plan may be required of the owner at the conclusion of the DEC’s evaluation of the property.
(3) Evaluation of the property. During the evaluation period, the DEC will perform an analysis of the multifamily housing property, which may include input from tenants, HUD multifamily officials, elected officials, and others as may be appropriate. Although the MFD will assist with the evaluation, for insured mortgages, the DEC will have primary responsibility for the conclusion of the evaluation of the property after taking into consideration the input of interested parties as described in this paragraph (h)(2). The DEC’s evaluation may include a site visit to the owner’s property.
(4) Continuing responsibilities of HUD Multifamily Program Offices and Mortgagee. During the period of DEC evaluation, HUD’s multifamily program offices continue to be responsible for routine asset management tasks on properties and all servicing actions (e.g., rent increase decisions, releases from reserve account approvals). In addition, during this period of evaluation, the mortgagee shall continue to carry out its duties and responsibilities with respect to the mortgage.
(i) Enforcement action. If, at the conclusion of the evaluation period, the DEC determines that enforcement action is appropriate, the DEC will provide notification to the owner of the DEC’s decision to formally accept the property for enforcement purposes.
(1) DEC Owner Compliance Plan. (i) After notification to the owner of the DEC’s decision, the DEC will produce a proposed action plan (DEC Compliance Plan), the purpose of which is to improve the physical condition of the owner’s property, and correct any other known violations by the owner of its legal obligations. The DEC Compliance Plan will describe:
(A) The actions that will be required of the owner to correct, mitigate or eliminate identified property deficiencies, problems, hazards, and/or correct any other known violations by the owner;
(B) The period of time within which these actions must be completed; and
(C) The compliance responsibilities of the owner.
(ii) The DEC Compliance Plan will be submitted to the MFD for review and concurrence. If the MFD does not concur, the DEC Compliance Plan will be submitted to the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Housing and the Deputy Director of the DEC for review and concurrence. If the DEC Compliance Plan remains unapproved, a final decision on the plan will be made by HUD’s Deputy Secretary in consultation with the General Counsel, the Assistant Secretary for Housing, and the Director of the DEC.
(iii) Following submission of the DEC Compliance Plan to the owner, the owner will be provided a period of 30 calendar days to review and accept the DEC Compliance Plan. If the owner agrees to comply with the DEC Compliance Plan, the plan will be forwarded to the appropriate Multifamily Office for implementation and monitoring of completion of the plan’s requirements.
(2) Counter compliance plan proposal by owner. The owner may submit an acceptable counter proposal to the DEC Compliance Plan. An owner’s counter proposal to a DEC Compliance Plan must be submitted no later than the 30th day following submission of the DEC Compliance Plan to the owner. The DEC, in coordination with the MFD, may enter into discussions with the owner to achieve agreement to a revised DEC Compliance Plan. If the owner and the DEC agree on a revised DEC Compliance Plan, the revised plan will be forwarded to the appropriate Multifamily Office for implementation and monitoring of completion of the plan’s requirements.
(3) Non-cooperation and Non-compliance by owner. If at the conclusion of the 30th calendar day following submission of the DEC Compliance Plan to the owner, the DEC receives no response from the owner, or the owner refuses to accept the DEC Compliance Plan, or to present a counter compliance plan proposal, or if the owner accepts the DEC Compliance Plan or revised DEC Compliance Plan, but refuses to take the actions required of the owner in the plan, the DEC may take appropriate enforcement action.
(4) No limitation on existing enforcement authority. The administrative process provided in this section does not prohibit the Office of Housing, the DEC, or HUD generally, to take whatever action may be necessary when necessary (notwithstanding the commencement of this process), as authorized under existing statutes, regulations, contracts or other documents, to protect HUD’s financial interests in multifamily properties and to protect the residents of these properties.
(j) Limitations on material alteration of physical inspection software. HUD will not materially alter the physical inspection requirements in a manner which would materially increase the cost of performing the inspection.
Subpart R [Reserved]
Subpart S – Minimum Property Standards
§ 200.925 Applicability of minimum property standards.
All housing constructed under HUD mortgage insurance and low-rent public housing programs shall meet or exceed HUD Minimum Property Standards, except that this requirement shall be applicable to manufactured homes eligible for insurance pursuant to § 203.43f of this chapter only to the extent provided therein. The Minimum Property Standards may be waived to the same extent as the other regulatory requirements for eligibility for insurance under the specific mortgage insurance program involved.
§ 200.925a Multifamily and care-type minimum property standards.
(a) Construction standards. Multifamily or care-type properties shall comply with the minimum property standards contained in the handbook identified in § 200.929(b)(2). In addition, each such property shall, for the Department’s purposes, comply with:
(1) The applicable State of local building code, if the property is located within a jurisdiction which has a building code accepted by the Secretary under § 200.925a(d); or
(2)(i) The applicable State or local building code, and
(ii) Those portions of the codes identified in § 200.295c which are designated by the HUD Field Office serving the jurisdiction in which the property is to be located, if the property is located in a jurisdiction which has a building code partially accepted by the Secretary; or
(3) The appropriate codes, as identified in § 200.925c(c), if the property is not located within a jurisdiction which has a building code accepted by the Secretary.
(b) Conflicting standards. The minimum property standards contained in the handbook identified in § 200.929(b)(2) do not preempt state or local standards, nor do they alter or affect a builder’s obligation to comply with any state or local requirements. However, a property shall be eligible for benefits only if it complies with all applicable minimum property standards, including referenced standards.
(c) Standard for evaluating local building codes. The Secretary shall compare the portions of a local or State building code applicable to residential or institutional occupancy, as appropriate, submitted under § 200.925a(d) to the list of construction related areas contained in § 200.925b.
(1) A State or local code will be accepted if it regulates each area on the list.
(2) A State or local building code will be partially accepted if it regulates most of the areas on the list. However, no code may be partially accepted if it fails to regulate the subarea for seismic design (see § 200.925b(c)(5)), or if it fails to regulate subareas in more than one of the following major areas listed in § 200.925b: fire safety, light and ventilation, structural loads and seismic design, foundation systems, materials standards, construction components, glass, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and elevators.
(3) For purposes of this paragraph, a state or local code regulates an area if it establishes a standard concerning that area. However, for earthquake loads (see § 200.925b(c)(5)), ASCE 7-88 is mandatory.
(d) Review process and acceptance – (1) Jurisdictions without previously accepted building codes. The following submission requirements apply to developers and other interested parties in jurisdictions without building codes, jurisdictions with building codes which have never been submitted for acceptance, and jurisdictions with building codes which have been submitted for acceptance and neither accepted nor partially accepted by the Secretary.
(i) Developers or other interested parties must comply with one of the following by the time of application for insurance or other benefits:
(A) The developer or other interested party may choose to comply with the appropriate codes as identified in § 200.925c. If the developer or other interested party so chooses, then the multifamily or care-type property shall be constructed in accordance with one of the model codes designated in paragraph (c)(1), (2) or (3) of § 200.925c and with any other code or codes identified in the same paragraph. In such instances, the developer or other interested party shall notify the Department of the code or group of codes with which it intends to comply by the time of application for insurance or other benefits; or
(B) The developer or other interested party may choose to comply with the State or local building code, if such code is acceptable to the Secretary. To obtain the Secretary’s acceptance, the developer or other interested party shall submit the material specified in paragraph (d)(1)(ii) of this section to the HUD Field Office serving the jurisdiction in which the property is to be constructed. Such material may be submitted at any time; provided, however, that it must be submitted no later than the time of application for mortgage insurance or other benefits.
(ii) If, under paragraph (d)(1)(i)(B) of this section, the developer or other interested party chooses to comply with the State or local building code as prescribed in paragraph (a)(1) of this section, it shall submit the following material to the HUD field Office serving the jurisdiction in which the property is to be constructed:
(A) A copy of the jurisdiction’s building code, including all applicable service codes, appendices and referenced standards; and
(B) A copy of the statute, ordinance, regulation, or order establishing the code, if such statute, ordinance, regulation or order is not contained in the building code itself.
(2) Jurisdictions with previously accepted or partially accepted building codes. The following submission requirements apply to developers and other interested parties in any jurisdiction with a building code which has been accepted or partially accepted by the Secretary:
(i) At the time of application for mortgage insurance or other benefits, the developer or other interested party shall submit to the HUD Field Office serving the jurisdiction in which the property is to be constructed.
(A) A certificate stating that, since its acceptance by the Secretary, the jurisdiction’s building code has not been changed; or
(B)(1) A copy of all changes to the jurisdiction’s building code, including all applicable service codes and appendices, which have been made since the date of the code’s acceptance by the Secretary. However, the developer or other interested party need not submit any part already in the possession of the Field Office; and
(2) A copy of the statute, ordinance regulation, or order making such changes in the code.
(3) Notification of decision. The Secretary shall review the material submitted under paragraphs (d) (1)(ii) and (2)(i). Following that review, the Secretary shall issue a written notice (except in the case of a previously accepted code which hasn’t been changed) to the submitting party stating whether the State or local building code has been accepted, partially accepted, or whether the Secretary’s previous acceptance or partial acceptance has been continued; the basis for the Secretary’s decision; and a notification of the submitting party’s right to present its views concerning the denial of acceptance if the code is neither accepted nor partially accepted. The Secretary may, in his discretion, permit either an oral or written presentation of views.
(i) If a developer or other interested party is notified that a State or local building code has not been accepted, then the multifamily or care-type properties eligible for HUD benefits in that jurisdiction shall be constructed in accordance with the appropriate codes indicated in § 200.925c(c). In such instances, the developer or other interested party shall notify the HUD Field Office of the code or codes with which it chooses to comply, in accordance with § 200.925a(d)(1)(i)(A).
(ii) If a developer or other interested party is notified that a State or local building code has been partially accepted, then the multifamily or care-type properties eligible for HUD benefits in that jurisdiction shall be constructed in accordance with the applicable State or local building code, plus those additional requirements identified in the written notice issued by the Secretary under § 200.925a(d)(3). The written notice shall identify, in accordance with appendix J of the Handbook identified in § 200.929(b)(2), those portions of the codes listed at § 200.925c(a) with which the property must comply.
(iii) Each Regional Office will maintain a current list of jurisdictions with accepted building codes and a current list of jurisdictions with partially accepted building codes. The lists will state the most recent date of each code’s acceptance or partial acceptance and will be available to any interested party upon request. In addition, the list of jurisdictions whose codes have been partially accepted shall identify those portions of the codes listed at § 200.925c(a) with which the property must comply.
§ 200.925b Residential and institutional building code comparison items.
HUD will review each local code submitted under this chapter to determine whether it regulates all of the following areas and subareas:
(a) Fire safety. (1) Construction types permitted;
(2) Allowable height and area;
(3) Fire separations;
(4) Fire resistance requirements;
(5) Means of egress (number and distance);
(6) Individual unit smoke detectors;
(7) Building alarm systems;
(8) Highrise criteria;
(b) Light and ventilation. (1) Habitable rooms;
(2) Bath and toilet rooms.
(c) Structural loads and seismic design. (1) Design live loads;
(2) Design dead loads;
(3) Snow loads;
(4) Wind loads.
(5) Earthquake loads (in localities identified by ASCE 7-88 (formerly ANSI A58.1-82) as being in seismic zones 1, 2, 3, or 4, and Guam).
(6) Special loads, i.e., soil pressure, railings, interior walls etc.
(d) Foundation systems. (1) Soil tests;
(2) Foundation depths;
(3) Footings;
(4) Foundation materials criteria;
(5) Piles, i.e., materials, allowable stresses, design;
(6) Excavation;
(e) Materials standards.
(f) Construction components. (1) Steel;
(2) Masonry;
(3) Concrete;
(4) Gypsum;
(5) Lumber;
(6) Roof construction and covering;
(7) Chimneys and fireplaces.
(g) Glass. (1) Thickness/area requirements;
(2) Safety glazing.
(h) Mechanical. (1) Heating, cooling and ventilation systems;
(2) Boilers and pressure vessels;
(3) Gas, liquid and solid fuel piping and equipment;
(4) Chimneys and vents;
(5) Ventilation (air changes).
(i) Plumbing. (1) Materials standards;
(2) Sizing and installing drainage systems;
(3) Vents and venting;
(4) Traps;
(5) Cleanouts;
(6) Plumbing fixtures;
(7) Water supply and distribution;
(8) Storm drain systems.
(j) Electrical. (1) Wiring design and protection;
(2) Wiring methods and materials;
(3) Equipment for general use;
(4) Special equipment;
(5) Special conditions;
(6) Communication systems.
(k) Elevators. (1) Reference ASME/ANSI Standard A 17.1-1987; and the ASME/ANSI A17.1b-1989 Addenda.
(2) Acceptance tests and periodic tests.
§ 200.925c Model codes.
(a) Incorporation by reference. The following publications are incorporated by reference under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. The incorporation by reference of these publications has been approved by the Director of the Federal Register. The locations where copies of these publications are available are set forth below.
(1) Model Building Codes – (i) The BOCA National Building Code, 1993 Edition, The BOCA National Plumbing Code, 1993 Edition, and the BOCA National Mechanical Code, 1993 Edition, excluding Chapter I, Administration, for the Building, Plumbing and Mechanical Codes and the references to fire retardant treated wood and a distance of 4 feet (1219 mm) from the wall in exception number 1 of paragraph 705.6 and 707.5.2 number 2 (Chapter 7) of the Building Code, but including the Appendices of the Code. Available from Building Officials and Code Administrators International, Inc., 4051 West Flossmoor Road, Country Club Hills, Illinois 60478.
(ii) Standard Building Code, 1991 Edition, including 1992/1993 revisions. Standard Plumbing Code, 1991 Edition, Standard Mechanical Code, 1991 Edition, including 1992 revisions, and Standard Gas Code, 1991 Edition, including the 1992 revisions, but excluding Chapter I – Administration from each standard code and the phrase “or fire retardant treated wood” in reference note (a) of table 600 (Chapter 6) of the Standard Building Code, but including Appendices A, C, E, J, K, M, and R. Available from the Southern Building Code Congress International, Inc., 900 Montclair Road, Birmingham, Alabama 35213.
(iii) Uniform Building Code, 1991 Edition, including the 1993 Accumulative Supplement, but excluding Part I – Administrative, and the reference to fire retardant treated plywood in section 2504(c)3 and to fire retardant treated wood in 1-HR type III and V construction referenced in paragraph 4203.2., but including the Appendix of the Code. Uniform Plumbing Code, 1991 Edition, including the 1992 Code Changes but excluding Part I – Administration, but including the Appendices of the Code. Uniform Mechanical Code, 1991 Edition, including the 1993 Accumulative Supplement but excluding Part I – Administrative, but including the Appendices of the Code. All available from the International Conference of Building Officials, 5360 South Workman Mill Road, Whittier, California 90601.
(2) National Electrical Code, NFPA 70, 1993 Edition, including appendices. Available from the National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, Massachusetts 02269.
(3) National Standard Plumbing Code, 1993 Edition. Available from the National Association of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors, P.O. Box 6808, Falls Church, Virginia 22046.
(b) Model Code Compliance Requirements. (1) When a multifamily or care-type property is to comply with one of the model building codes set forth in paragraph (a)(1) of this section, the following requirements of those model codes shall not apply to those properties:
(i) Those provisions of the model codes that do not pertain to residential or institutional buildings;
(ii) Those provisions of the model codes that establish energy requirements for multifamily or care-type structures; and
(iii) Those provisions of the model codes that require or allow the issuance of permits of any sort.
(2) Where the model codes set forth in paragraph (a)(1) of this section designate a building, fire, mechanical, plumbing or other official, the Secretary’s designee in the HUD Field Office serving the jurisdiction in which the property is to be constructed shall act as such official.
(c) Designation of Model Codes. When a multifamily or care-type property is to comply with a model code, it shall comply with one of the model codes designated in paragraphs (c)(1), (2), or (3) of this section, and with any other code or codes identified in the same paragraph. However, seismic design is a mandatory requirement. In addition, the property shall comply with all of the standards that are incorporated into the code or codes by reference. By the time of application for insurance or other benefits, the developer or other interested party shall notify the Department of the code or group of codes to which the developer intends to comply.
(1) The BOCA National Building Code, The BOCA National Plumbing and The BOCA National Mechanical Code, 1993 Editions.
(2) Standard Building Code, Standard Plumbing Code, Standard Mechanical Code and Standard Gas Code, 1991 Editions, including the revisions specified in paragraph (a)(1)(ii) of this section, and the National Electrical Code, 1993 Edition.
(3) Uniform Building Code, Uniform Plumbing Code and Uniform Mechanical Code, 1991 Editions, including the 1993 Accumulative Supplements to the Building and Mechanical Codes, and the 1992 Code Changes to the Uniform Plumbing Code, and the National Electrical Code, NFPA 70, 1993 Edition.
(4) The National Electrical Code, NFPA 70, 1993 Edition.
§ 200.926 Minimum property standards for one and two family dwellings.
(a) Construction standards – (1) Applicable structures. The standards identified or contained in this section, and in §§ 200.926a-200.926e, apply to single family detached homes, duplexes, three-unit homes, and to living units in a structure where the units are located side-by-side in town house fashion. Section 200.926d(c)(4) also applies to four-unit homes.
(2) Applicability of standards to new construction. The standards referenced in paragraph (a)(1) of this section are applicable to structures which are:
(i) Approved for insurance or other benefits prior to the start of construction, including approval under the Direct Endorsement process described in § 203.5 of this chapter, or under the Lender Insurance process described in § 203.6 of this chapter;
(ii) Approved for insurance or other benefits based upon participation in an insured warranty program; or
(iii) Insured as new construction based upon a Certificate of Reasonable Value issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
(b) Conflicting standards. The requirements contained in § 200.926d do not preempt local or State standards, nor do they alter or affect a builder’s obligation to comply with any local or State requirements. However, a property shall be eligible for benefits only if it complies with the requirements of this subpart, including any referenced standards. When any of the requirements identified in § 200.926c are in conflict with a partially accepted local or state code, the conflict will be resolved by the HUD Field Office servicing the jurisdiction in which the property is to be located.
(c) Standard for evaluating local or state building codes. The Secretary shall compare a local building code submitted under paragraph (d) of this section or a State code to the list of construction related areas contained in § 200.926a.
(1) A local or State code will be accepted if it regulates each area and subarea on the list.
(2) A State or local building code will be partially accepted if it regulates most of the areas on the list. However, no code may be partially accepted if it fails to regulate the subarea for seismic design (see § 200.926a(c)(5)), or if it fails to regulate subareas in more than one of the following major areas listed in § 200.926a: fire safety, light and ventilation, structural loads and seismic design, foundation systems, materials standards, construction components, glass, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical.
(3) For purposes of this paragraph, a local or State code regulates an area or subarea if it establishes a standard concerning that area or subarea. However, for earthquake loads (see § 200.926a(c)(5)), ASCE 7-88 is mandatory.
(d) Code selection. Any materials required to be submitted under this section must be submitted by the time the lender or other interested party applies for mortgage insurance or other benefits.
(1) Jurisdictions without previously accepted building codes. The following submission requirements apply to lenders and other interested parties in jurisdictions without building codes, jurisdictions with building codes which have never been submitted for acceptance, and jurisdictions with building codes which previously have been submitted for acceptance and have not been accepted or partially accepted by the Secretary.
(i) In jurisdictions without local building codes:
(A) If the State building code is acceptable, the lender or other interested party must comply with the State building code and the requirements of § 200.926d;
(B) If the State building code is partially acceptable, the lender or other interested party must comply with:
(1) The acceptable portions of the partially acceptable code; and
(2) Those portions of the CABO One and Two Family Dwelling Code designated by the HUD Field Office in accordance with § 200.926c; and
(3) The requirements of § 200.926d.
(C) If there is no State building code or if the State building code is unacceptable, the lender or other interested party must comply with:
(1) The CABO One and Two Family Dwelling Code as identified in § 200.926b(a); and
(2) The requirements of § 200.926d.
(ii) In jurisdictions with local building codes which have never been submitted for review, lenders or other interested parties must:
(A) Comply with the requirements of paragraph (d)(1)(i) (A), (B) or (C) of this section, as appropriate; or
(B) Request the Secretary’s acceptance of the local building code in accordance with paragraph (d)(1)(iv) of this section.
(1) If the Secretary determines that the local building code is unacceptable, then the lender or other interested party must comply with the requirements of paragraph (d)(1)(i) (A), (B) or (C) of this section as appropriate.
(2) If the Secretary determines that the local code is partially acceptable, then the lender or other interested party must comply with:
(i) The acceptable portions of the partially acceptable local code; and
(ii) Those portions of the CABO One and Two Family Dwelling Code designated by the HUD Field Office in accordance with § 200.926c; and
(iii) The requirements of § 200.926d.
(3) If the Secretary determines that the local code is acceptable, then the lender or other interested party must comply with the local building code and the requirements of § 200.926d.
(iii) In jurisdictions with local building codes which previously have been submitted for review and which have been found unacceptable by the Secretary:
(A) If the local code has not been changed since the date the code or changes thereto were submitted to the Secretary, the lender or other interested party must comply with the requirements of paragraph (d)(1)(i) (A), (B) or (C) of this section, as appropriate; or
(B) If the local code has been changed since the date when the code or changes thereto were submitted to the Secretary, the lender or other interested party must submit a copy of all changes to the local building code, including all applicable service codes and appendices and a copy of the statute, ordinance, regulation or order making such changes in the code, which have been made since the date when the code or other changes thereto were last submitted to the Secretary. However, the lender or other interested party need not submit any part already in the possession of the HUD Field Office. Based upon the Secretary’s determination concerning the acceptability of the local code as changed, the lender or other interested party must comply with the requirements of paragraph (d)(1)(ii)(B) (1), (2) or (3) of this section, as appropriate.
(iv) In order to obtain the Department’s approval of a local code, the lender or other interested party must submit the following material to the HUD Field Office serving the jurisdiction in which the property is to be constructed:
(A) A copy of the jurisdiction’s local building code, including all applicable service codes and appendices; and
(B) A copy of the statute, ordinance, regulation, or order establishing the code, if such statute, ordinance, regulation or order is not contained in the building code itself.
(2) Jurisdictions with previously accepted or partially accepted building codes. The following submission requirements apply to lenders or other interested parties in any jurisdiction with a building code which has been accepted or partially accepted by the Secretary:
(i) The lender or other interested party shall submit to the HUD Field Office serving the jurisdiction in which the property is to be constructed:
(A) A certificate stating that, since the date when the code or any changes thereto were last submitted to the Secretary, the jurisdiction’s local building code has not been changed; or
(B)(1) A copy of all changes to the jurisdiction’s building code, including all applicable service codes and appendices, which have been made since the date when the code or other changes thereto were last submitted to the Secretary. However, the lender or other interested party need not submit any part already in the possession of the HUD Field Office; and
(2) A copy of the statute, ordinance, regulation, or order making such changes in the code.
(ii) If, based upon changes to the local building code, the Secretary determines that it is unacceptable, the lender or other interested party must comply with the requirements of paragraph (d)(1) (i)(A), (B) or (C) of this section, as appropriate.
(iii) If the local building code was previously found by the Secretary to be partially acceptable and there have been no changes to it or if the local building code was previously found by the Secretary to be partially acceptable and if, based upon changes to it, the Secretary determines that it is still partially acceptable or if the local building code was previously found by the Secretary to be acceptable and if, based upon changes to it, the Secretary determines that it is partially acceptable, then the lender or other interested party must comply with paragraphs (d)(1)(ii)(B)(2) (i), (ii) and (iii) of this section.
(iv) If the local building code was previously found by the Secretary to be partially acceptable and if, based upon changes to it, the Secretary determines that it is acceptable, or if the local building code was previously found by the Secretary to be acceptable and there have been no changes to the code, or if the local building code was previously found by the Secretary to be acceptable and if, based upon changes to it, the Secretary determines that it is still acceptable, then the lender or other interested party must comply with the local building code and the requirements of § 200.926d.
(3) Notification of decision. (i) Fire retardant treated plywood, where approved by a State or local building code, shall not be permitted for use in roof construction unless a HUD technical suitability bulletin has been issued by the Department for that product.
(ii) The Secretary shall review the material submitted under § 200.926(d). Following that review, the Secretary shall issue a written notice (except where there is a previously accepted or partially accepted code which has not been changed) to the submitting party stating whether the local building code is acceptable, partially acceptable, or not acceptable. Where the local building code is not acceptable, the notice shall also state whether the State code is acceptable, partially acceptable or not acceptable. The notice shall also contain the basis for the Secretary’s decision and a notification of the submitting party’s right to present its views concerning the denial of acceptance if the code is neither accepted nor partially accepted. The Secretary may, in his or her discretion, permit either an oral or written presentation of views.
(4) Department’s responsibilities. (i) Each Regional and Field Office will maintain a current list of jurisdictions with accepted local or State building codes, a current list of jurisdictions with partially accepted local or State building codes and a current list of jurisdictions with local or State building codes which have not been accepted. For local codes, the lists will state the most recent date when the code or changes thereto were submitted to the Secretary. The lists, which shall be prepared by the Field Offices and submitted to the Regional Offices, will be available to any interested party upon request. In addition, the list of jurisdictions whose codes have been partially accepted shall identify in accordance with § 200.926c those portions of the codes listed at § 200.926b(a) with which the property must comply.
(ii) The Department is responsible for obtaining copies of the State codes and any changes thereto.
§ 200.926a Residential building code comparison items.
HUD will review each local and State code submitted under this subpart to determine whether it regulates all of the following areas and subareas:
(a) Fire Safety. (1) Allowable height;
(2) Fire separations;
(3) Fire resistance requirements;
(4) Egress doors and windows;
(5) Unit smoke detectors;
(6) Flame spread.
(b) Light and ventilation. (1) Habitable rooms;
(2) Bath and toilet rooms.
(c) Structural loads and seismic design. (1) Design live loads;
(2) Design dead loads;
(3) Snow loads (for jurisdictions with snow loading conditions identified in Section 7 of ASCE-7-88 (formerly ANSI A58.1-82);
(4) Wind loads;
(5) Earthquake loads (for jurisdictions in seismic zones 3 or 4, as identified in Section 9 of ASCE-7-88 (formerly ANSI A58.1-82)).
(d) Foundation systems. (1) Foundation depths;
(2) Footings;
(3) Foundation materials criteria.
(e) Materials standards. (1) Materials standards.
(f) Construction components. (1) Steel;
(2) Masonry;
(3) Concrete;
(4) Lumber;
(5) Roof construction and covering;
(6) Chimneys and fireplaces.
(g) Glass. (1) Thickness/area requirements;
(2) Safety glazing.
(h) Mechanical. (1) Heating, cooling and ventilation systems;
(2) Gas, liquid and solid fuel piping and equipment;
(3) Chimneys and vents;
(4) Ventilation (air changes).
(i) Plumbing. (1) Materials standards;
(2) Sizing and installing drainage systems;
(3) Vents and venting;
(4) Traps;
(5) Cleanouts;
(6) Plumbing fixtures;
(7) Water supply and distribution;
(8) Sewage disposal systems.
(j) Electrical. (1) Branch circuits;
(2) Services;
(3) Grounding;
(4) Wiring methods;
(5) Cable;
(6) Conduit;
(7) Outlets, switches and junction boxes;
(8) Panelboards.
§ 200.926b Model codes.
(a) Incorporation by reference. The following model code publications are incorporated by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. The incorporation by reference of these publications has been approved by the Director of the Federal Register. The locations where copies of these publications are available are set forth below.
(1) CABO One and Two Family Dwelling Code, 1992 Edition, including the 1993 amendments, but excluding Chapter I – Administrative, and the phrase “or approved fire retardant wood” contained in the exception of paragraph R-218.2.2(2), but including the Appendices A, B, D, and E of the Code. (Available from the Council of American Building Officials, Suite 708, 5203 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041.)
(2) Electrical Code for One and Two Family Dwellings, NFPA 70A, 1990 Edition, including Tables and Examples. Available from the National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269.
(b) Model code compliance requirements. (1) When a one or two family dwelling is to comply with the model codes set forth in § 200.926b(a), the following requirements of those model codes shall not apply to those properties:
(i) Those provisions of the model codes that establish energy requirements for one and two family dwellings; and
(ii) Those provisions of the model codes that require or allow the issuance of permits of any sort.
(2) Where the model codes set forth in paragraph (a) of this section designate a building, fire, mechanical, plumbing or other official, the Secretary’s designee in the HUD Field Office serving the jurisdiction in which the dwelling is to be constructed shall act as such official.
(c) Designation of Model Codes. When a one or two family dwelling or townhouse is to comply with portions of the model code or the entire model code, the dwelling shall comply with the CABO One and Two Family Dwelling Code 1992 Edition, including the 1993 amendments, or portion thereof as modified by § 200.926e of this part and designated by the HUD Field Office serving a jurisdiction in which a property is located. In addition, the property shall comply with all of the standards which are referenced for any designated portions of the model code, and with the Electrical Code for One and Two Family Dwellings, NFPA 70A/1990.
§ 200.926c Model code provisions for use in partially accepted code jurisdictions.
If a lender or other interested party is notified that a State or local building code has been partially accepted, then the properties eligible for HUD benefits in that jurisdiction shall be constructed in accordance with the applicable State or local building code, plus those additional requirements identified below. Depending upon the major area identified in § 200.926a which is not adequately regulated by the State or local code, the HUD Field Office will designate, in accordance with the schedule below, those portions of one of the model codes with which the property must comply.
Schedule for Model Code Supplements to Local or State Codes
| Deficient major items from § 200.926a as determined by field office review | Portions of the CABO One and Two Family Dwelling Code, 1992 Edition, including the 1993 amendments, with which a property must comply |
|---|---|
| (a) Fire safety | Chapters 2, 9; Section R-402. |
| (b) Light and ventilation | Chapter 2; Section R-309. |
| (c) Structural loads and seismic design | Chapter 2. |
| (d) Foundation systems | Chapter 3. |
| (e) Materials standards | Chapter 26. |
| (f) Construction components | Part III. |
| (g) Glass | Chapter 2. |
| (h) Mechanical | Part IV. |
| (i) Plumbing | Part V. |
| (j) Electrical | Electrical code for 1- and 2-family dwellings (NFPA 70A-1990). |
§ 200.926d Construction requirements.
(a) Application – (1) General. These standards cover the agency requirements for accessibility to physically handicapped people, variations to standards, real estate entity, trespass and utilities, site conditions, access, site design, streets, dedication of utilities, drainage and flood hazard exposure, special construction and product acceptance, thermal requirements, and water supply systems.
(2) Requirements for accessibility to physically handicapped people. The HUD Field Office will advise project sponsors as to the extent accessibility will be required for new construction of one- and two-family dwellings on a project-by-project basis.
(i) Technical standards. See HUD Handbook, 4910.1, Sections 100-1.3b and 100-1.3c.
(3) Variations to standards – (i) New materials and technologies. See paragraph (d) of this section. Alternatives, nonconventional or innovative methods and materials shall be equivalent to these standards in the areas of structural soundness, durability, economy of maintenance or operation and usability.
(ii) Variation procedures. Variations from the requirements of any standard with which the Department requires compliance shall be made in the following ways:
(A) For a particular design or construction method to be used on a single case or project, the decision is the responsibility of the Field Office. Headquarters concurrence is not required.
(B) Where a variation is intended to be on a repetitive basis, a recommendation for a Local Acceptable Standard, substantiating data, and background information shall be submitted by the Field Office to the Director, Office of Manufactured Housing and Regulatory Functions.
(iii) Variances which require individual analysis and decision in each instance are not considered as repetitive variances even though one particular standard is repeatedly the subject of variation. Such variances are covered by paragraph (a)(3)(ii)(A) of this section.
(b) General acceptability criteria – (1) Real estate entity. The property shall comprise a single plot except that a primary plot with a secondary plot for an appurtenant garage or for other use contributing to the marketability of the property will be acceptable provided the two plots are in such proximity as to comprise a readily marketable real estate entity.
(2) Service and facilities – (i) Trespass. Each living unit shall be one that can be used and maintained individually without trespass upon adjoining properties, except when the windowless wall of a detached dwelling is located on a side lot line. A detached dwelling may be located on a side lot line if:
(A) legal provision is made for permanent access for the maintenance of the exterior portion of the lot line wall, and
(B) the minimum distances from the dwelling to the dwellings on the abutting properties are not less than the sum of the side yard distances computed as appropriate for the type of opposing walls. (minimum distance 10 ft).
(ii) Utilities. Utility services shall be independent for each living unit, except that common services such as water, sewer, gas and electricity may be provided for living units under a single mortgage or ownership. Separate utility service shut-off for each unit shall be provided. For living units under separate ownership, common utility services may be provided from the main to the building line when protected by an easement or covenant and maintenance agreement acceptable to HUD, but shall not pass over, under or through any other living unit. Individual utilities serving a living unit may not pass over, under or through another living unit under the same mortgage unless provision is made for repair and maintenance of utilities without trespass or when protected by an easement or covenant providing permanent access for maintenance and repair of the utilities. Building drain cleanouts shall be accessible from the exterior where a single drain line within the building serves more than one unit.
(3) Site conditions. (i) The property shall be free of those foreseeable hazards and adverse conditions which may affect the health and safety of occupants or the structural soundness of the improvements, or which may impair the customary use and enjoyment of the property. The hazards include toxic chemicals, radioactive materials, other pollution, hazardous activities, potential damage from soil or other differential ground movements, ground water, inadequate surface drainage, flood, erosion, or other hazards located on or off site. The site must meet the standards set forth in 24 CFR part 51, and HUD Handbook 4910.1, section 606 for termite and decay protection.
(ii) When special conditions exist or arise during construction which were unforeseen and which necessitate precautionary or hazard mitigation measures, the HUD Field Office shall require corrective work to mitigate potential adverse effects from the special conditions as necessary. Special conditions include rock formations, unstable soils or slopes, high ground water levels, springs, or other conditions which may adversely affect a property. It shall be the builder’s responsibility to ensure proper design, construction and satisfactory performance where these conditions are present.
(4) Access. (i) Each property shall be provided with vehicular or pedestrian access by a public or private street. Private streets shall be protected by permanent easement.
(ii) Each living unit shall have a means of access such that it is unnecessary to pass through any other living unit.
(iii) The rear yard shall be accessible without passing through any other living unit.
(iv) For a townhouse type dwelling, access to the rear yard may be by means of alley, easement, passage through the dwelling, or other means acceptable to the HUD Field Office.
(c) Site design – (1) General. (i) A site design shall be provided which includes an arrangement of all site facilities necessary to create a safe, functional, healthful, durable and energy efficient living environment.
(ii) With the exception of paragraph (c)(4) of this section, these site design standards apply only in communities that have not adopted criteria for site development applicable to one and two family dwellings.
(iii) Single family detached houses situated on individual lots located on existing streets with utilities need not comply with the requirements of paragraphs (c)(2) and (c)(3) of this section.
(2) Streets. (i) Existing or proposed streets on the site shall connect to private or public streets and shall provide all-weather access to all buildings for essential and emergency use, including access needed for deliveries, service, maintenance and fire equipment.
(ii) Streets shall be designed for dedication for public use and maintenance or, when approved by the HUD Field Office, may be retained as private streets where protected by permanent easements.
(3) Dedication. Utilities shall be located to permit dedication to the local government or appropriate public body.
(4) Drainage and flood hazard exposure – (i) Residential structures with basements located in FEMA-designated areas of special flood hazard. The elevation of the lowest floor in structures with basements shall be at or above the base flood level (100-year flood level) required for new construction or substantial improvement of residential structures under regulations for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) (see 44 CFR 60.3 through 60.6), except where variances from this standard are granted by communities under the procedures of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at 44 CFR 60.6(a) or exceptions from this NFIP standard for basements are approved by FEMA in accordance with procedures at 44 CFR 60.6(c).
(ii) Residential structures without basements located in FEMA-designated areas of special flood hazard. The elevation of the lowest floor in structures without basements shall be at or above the FEMA-designated base flood elevation (100-year flood level).
(iii) Residential structures located in FEMA-designated “coastal high hazard areas”. (A) Basements or any permanent enclosure of space below the lowest floor of a structure are prohibited.
(B) Where FEMA has determined the base flood level without establishing stillwater elevations, the bottom of the lowest structural member of the lowest floor (excluding pilings and columns) and its horizontal supports shall be at or above the base flood level.
(iv)(A) In all cases in which a Direct Endorsement (DE) mortgagee or a Lender Insurance (LI) mortgagee seek to insure a mortgage on a newly constructed one-to four-family dwelling (including a newly erected manufactured home) that was processed by the DE or LI mortgagee, the DE or LI mortgagee must determine whether the property improvements (dwelling and related structures/equipment essential to the value of the property and subject to flood damage) are located in a 100-year floodplain, as designated on maps of the Federal Emergency Management Agency. If so, the DE mortgagee, before submitting the application for insurance to HUD, or the LI mortgagee, before submitting all the required data regarding the mortgage to HUD, must obtain:
(1) A final Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA);
(2) A final Letter of Map Revision (LOMR); or
(3) A signed Elevation Certificate documenting that the lowest floor (including basement) of the property improvements is built at or above the 100-year flood elevation in compliance with National Flood Insurance program criteria 44 CFR 60.3 through 60.6.
(B) Under the DE program, these mortgages are not eligible for insurance unless the DE mortgagee submits the LOMA, LOMR, or Elevation Certificate to HUD with the mortgagee’s request for endorsement.
(v) Streets. Streets must be usable during runoff equivalent to a 10-year return frequency. Where drainage outfall is inadequate to prevent runoff equivalent to a 10-year return frequency from ponding over 6 inches deep, streets must be made passable for commonly used emergency vehicles during runoff equivalent to a 25-year return frequency, except where an alternative access street not subject to such ponding is available.
(vi) Crawl spaces. Crawl spaces must not pond water or be subject to prolonged dampness.
(d) Special construction and product acceptance – (1) Structural features of factory produced (modular or panelized) housing or components.
(i) For factory fabricated systems or components, HUD Handbook 4950.1, “Technical Suitability of Products Program Technical and Processing Procedures” shall apply.
(ii) The requirements of this part shall apply to structural features, consisting of factory fabricated systems or components assembled either at the factory or at the construction site, if the total construction is covered by these standards and can be inspected on-site for determination of compliance.
(2) Non-structural or non-standard features. These features include methods of construction, systems, sub-systems, components, materials and processes which are not covered by these requirements. See HUD Handbook 4950.1 for procedures to be followed in order to obtain acceptance of non-structural components or materials. See HUD Handbook 4910.1, appendix F for a list of Use of Materials Bulletins. Products and methods shall conform to the appropriate Use of Materials Bulletin.
(3) Standard Features. These features include methods of construction, systems, sub-systems, components, materials and processes which are covered by national society or industry standards. For a list of standards and practices to which compliance is required, see HUD Handbook 4910.1, Appendix C and Appendices E and F, available from HUD, 451 Seventh Street, SW., Attention: Mailroom B-133, Washington, DC 20410.
(e) Energy efficiency. All detached one- and two-family dwellings and one-family townhouses not more than three stories in height shall comply with the CABO Model Energy Code, 1992 Edition, Residential Buildings, except for Sections 101.3.1, 101.3.2, 104, and 105, but Section 101.3.2.2, Historic Buildings, shall remain, and including the Appendix, and HUD intermediate MPS Supplement 4930.2 Solar Heating and Domestic Hot Water Systems, 1989 edition.
(f) Water supply systems – (1) General. (i) Each living unit shall be provided with a continuing and sufficient supply of safe water under adequate pressure and of appropriate quality for all household uses. Newly constructed residential property for which a building permit has been applied for on or after June 19, 1988 from the competent authority with jurisdiction in this matter shall have lead-free water piping. For purposes of these standards, water piping is “lead free” if it uses solders and flux containing not more than 0.2 percent lead and pipes and pipe fittings containing not more than 8.0 percent lead. This system shall not impair the function or durability of the plumbing system or attachments.
(ii) The chemical and bacteriological standards of the local health authority shall apply. In the absence of such standards, those of the appropriate State agency shall apply. A water analysis may be required by either the health authority or the HUD Field Office.
(iii) Whenever feasible, connection shall be made to a public water system. When a public system is not available, connection shall be made to a community system which complies with HUD Handbook 4940.2, if feasible.
(2) Individual water systems. (i) The system should be capable of delivering a flow of 5 gpm over at least a 4 hour period.
(ii) The chemical and bacteriological standards of the local health authority shall apply. In the absence of such standards, those of the appropriate State agency shall apply. A water analysis may be required by either the health authority or the HUD Field Office.
(iii) After installation, the system shall be disinfected in accordance with the recommendations or requirements of the local health authority. In the absence of a health authority, system cleaning and disinfection shall conform to the current EPA Manual of Individual Water Supply Systems.
(iv) Bacteriological or chemical examination of a water sample collected by a representative of the local or state health authority shall be made when required by that authority or the HUD Field Office.
(3) Location of wells. (i) A well located within the foundation walls of a dwelling is not acceptable except in arctic or subarctic regions.
(ii) Water which comes from any soil formation which may be polluted, contaminated, fissured, creviced or less than 20 ft. below the natural ground surface is not acceptable, unless acceptable to the local health authority.
(iii) Individual water supply systems are not acceptable for individual lots in areas where chemical soil poisoning has been or is practiced if the overburden of soil between the ground surface and the water bearing strata is coarse grained sand, gravel, or porous rock, or is creviced in a manner which will permit the recharge water to carry the toxicants into the zone of saturation.
(iv) The following table shall be used in establishing the minimum acceptable distances between wells and sources of pollution located on either the same or adjoining lots. These distances may be increased by either the health authority having jurisdiction or the HUD Field Office.
Distance From Source of Pollution
| Source of pollution | Minimum horizontal distance (feet) |
|---|---|
| Property Line | 10 |
| Septic Tank | 50 |
| Absorption Field | 1 100 |
| Seepage Pit | 1 100 |
| Absorption Bed | 1 100 |
| Sewer Lines w/Permanent Watertight Joints | 10 |
| Other Sewer Lines | 50 |
| Chemically Poisoned Soil | 3 25 |
| Dry Well | 50 |
| Other | ( 2) |
1 This clearance may be increased or decreased depending upon soil and rock penetrated by the well and aquifer conditions. The clearance may be increased in creviced limestone and permeable strata of gravel and sand. The clearance may be reduced to 50 ft. only where the ground surface is effectively separated from the water bearing formation by an extensive, continuous and impervious strata of clay, hardpan, or rock. The well shall be constructed so as to prevent the entrance of surface water and contaminants.
2 The recommendations or requirements of the local health authority shall apply.
3 This clearance may be reduced to 15 feet only where the ground surface is effectively separated from the water bearing formation by an extensive, continuous and impervious strata of clay, hardpan, or rock.
(4) Well construction. (i) The well shall be constructed so as to allow the pump to be easily placed and to function properly.
(ii)(A) All drilled wells shall be provided with a sound, durable and watertight casing capable of sustaining the loads imposed.
(B) The casing shall extend from a point several feet below the water level at drawdown or from an impervious strata above the water level to 12 in. above either the ground surface or the pump room floor. The casing shall be sealed at the upper opening to a depth of at least 15 feet.
(iii) Bored wells shall be lined with concrete, vitrified clay or equivalent materials.
(iv) The space between the casing or liner and the wall of the well hole shall be sealed with cement grout.
(v) The well casing shall not be used to convey water except under positive pressure. A separate drop pipe shall be used for the suction line.
(vi) When sand or silt is encountered in the water-bearing formation, the well shall either be compacted and gravel packed, or a removable strainer or screen shall be installed.
(vii) The surface of the ground above and around the well shall be compacted and graded to drain surface water away from the well.
(viii) Openings in the casing, cap, or concrete cover for the entrance of pipes, pumps or manholes shall be watertight.
(ix) If a breather is provided, it shall extend above the highest level to which surface water may rise. The breather shall be watertight, and the open end shall be screened and positioned to prevent entry of dust, insects and foreign objects.
(5) Pump and equipment. (i) Pumps shall be capable of delivering the volume of water required under normal operating pressure within the living unit. Pump capacity shall not exceed the output of the well.
(ii) Pumps and equipment shall be mounted to be free of objectionable noises, vibrations, flooding, pollution, and freezing.
(iii) Suction lines shall terminate below maximum drawdown of the water level in the well.
(iv) Horizontal segments of suction line shall be placed below the frost line in a sealed casing pipe or in at least 4 in. of concrete. The distance from suction line to sources of pollution shall be not less than shown in the table at paragraph (f)(3)(iv) of this section.
(6) Storage tanks. (i) A pressure tank having a minimum capacity of 42 gallons shall be provided. However, prepressured tanks and other pressurizing devices are acceptable provided that delivery between pump cycles equals or exceeds that of a 42 gallon tank.
(ii) Tanks shall be equipped with a clean-out plug at the lowest point, and a suitable pressure relief valve.
§ 200.926e Supplemental information for use with the CABO One and Two Family Dwelling Code.
The following shall be used in Table No. R-202, Climatic and Geographic Design Criteria of the CABO One and Two Family Dwelling Code.
(a) Roof live loads.
(b) Roof snow load. The roof snow load shall be in accordance with section 7 of ASCE 7-88.
(c) Wind pressures. The minimum Design Wind Pressures (net pressures) set forth below apply to areas designated as experiencing basic wind speeds up to and including 80 mph, as shown in ASCE 7-88, Figure 1, Basic Wind Speed Map. These pressures also apply to buildings not over 30 ft. in height above finish grade, assuming exposure C or defined in ASCE 7-88.
(1) Minimum design wind pressure criteria. (i) Buildings (for overturning racking or sliding); p = 20 psf.
(ii) Chimneys, p = 30 psf.
(iii) Exterior walls, p = 15 psf inward or outward. Local pressure at corners of walls shall be not less than p = 30 psf outward. These local pressures shall not be included with the design pressure when computing overall loads. The pressures shall be applied perpendicularly outward on strips of width equal to 10 percent of the least width of building.
(iv) Partitions, p = 10 psf.
(v) Windows, p = 20 psf inward or outward.
(vi) Roof, p = 20 psf inward or outward.
(2) Severe wind design pressures. If the construction is higher than 30 ft., or if it is located in an area experiencing wind speeds greater than 80 mph, higher design wind pressures than shown above are required. Use Section 6 of ASCE 7-88 for higher criteria and for determining where wind speeds greater than 80 mph occur. Pressures are assumed to act horizontally on the gross area of the vertical projection of the structure except as noted for roof design.
(d) Seismic conditions shall be in accordance with Section 9 of ASCE 7-88.
(e) Subject to damage from: weathering. A jurisdiction’s weathering region shall be as established by the map in ASTM C 62-83.
(f) Subject to damage from: frost line depth. Exterior wall footings or foundation walls including those of accessory buildings shall extend a minimum of 6 in. below the finished grade and, where applicable, the prevailing frost line.
(g) Subject to damage from: termites. “Yes” shall be used in locations designated as Regions I, II or III. “No” shall be used in locations designated as Region IV. The map for Termite Infestation Probability in appendix A of CABO, One and Two Family Dwelling Code shall be used to determine the jurisdiction’s region.
(h) Subject to damage from: decay. “Yes” shall be used in locations designated as moderate to severe and slight to moderate. “No” shall be used in locations designated as none to slight. The Decay Probability map in appendix A of CABO, One and Two Family Dwelling Code shall be used to determine the jurisdiction’s decay designation.
§ 200.927 Incorporation by reference of minimum property standards.
The Minimum Property Standards as contained in the handbooks identified in § 200.929(b) are incorporated by reference into this section as though set forth in full in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
§ 200.929 Description and identification of minimum property standards.
(a) Description. The Minimum Property Standards describe physical standards for housing. They are intended to provide a sound basis for determining the acceptability of housing built under the HUD mortgage insurance and low-rent public housing programs. The Minimum Property Standards refer to material standards developed by industry and accepted by HUD. In addition, under Section 521 of the National Housing Act, HUD adopts its own technical suitability standards for materials and products for which there are no industry standards acceptable to HUD. These standards are contained in Use of Materials Bulletins that apply to products and methods and Materials Releases that apply to specific materials. Use of Materials Bulletins and Materials Releases are addenda to the Minimum Property Standards. Unless otherwise stated, the current edition, issue, or version of each of these documents, as available from its source, is applicable to this subpart S. A list of the Use of Materials Bulletins, Materials Releases, and MPS Appendix listing the applicable referenced Standards may be obtained from the Construction Standards Division, Office of Manufactured Housing and Construction Standards, room 6170 Department of Housing and Urban Development, 451 7th Street, SW, Washington, DC 20410.
(b) Identification. The Minimum Property Standards have been published as described below:
(1) MPS for One and Two Family Dwellings. See §§ 200.926, 200.926 (a) through (e).
(2) MPS for Housing 4910.1, 1994 edition. This volume applies to buildings and sites designed and used for normal multifamily occupancy, including both unsubsidized and subsidized insured housing, and to care-type housing insured under the National Housing Act. It also includes, in Appendix K, a reprint of the MPS for One and Two Family Dwellings identified in paragraph (b)(1) of this section.
§ 200.929a Fair Housing Accessibility Guidelines.
Builders and developers may use the Department’s Fair Housing Accessibility Guideline when designing or constructing covered multifamily dwelling units in order to comply with the Fair Housing Act. The Guidelines may be found in the 24 CFR Chapter I, Subchapter A, Appendix II, titled Fair Housing Accessibility Guidelines – Design Guidelines for Accessible/Adaptable Dwellings.
§ 200.931 Statement of availability.
(a) Updated copies of the Minimum Property Standards and Use of Materials Bulletins are available for public examination in the Office of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, Department of Housing and Urban Development, room 9156, 451 Seventh St. SW., Washington, D.C. 20410-8000. In addition, copies of volumes 1, 2, and 3 of the Minimum Property Standards may be purchased from the U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
(b) Publications approved by the Director of the Federal Register for incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51 are available for inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
§ 200.933 Changes in minimum property standards.
Changes in the Minimum Property Standards will generally be made every three years. Changes will be made in accordance with HUD policy for the adoption of rules and regulations set forth in part 10 of this title. Notice of such changes will be published in the
§ 200.934 User fee system for the technical suitability of products program.
(a) General. This section establishes fee requirements for the issuance of Structural Engineering Bulletins (SEBs), Mechanical Engineering Bulletins (MEBs), Truss Connector Bulletins (TCBs), Area Letters of Acceptance (ALAs), Materials Releases (MRs), and review of program administrator applications submitted pursuant to § 200.935 of this title.
(b) Filing address – (1) Applications containing payment. When applications for or correspondence concerning SEBs, MEBs, TCBs, MRs, or program administrator approval contain payment, such applications or correspondence shall be sent to the following address:
(2) Other correspondence. All other correspondence concerning SEBs, MEBs, TCBs, MRs, and program administrator acceptance shall be sent to the following address:
(3) Application for ALAs. Applications for or correspondence concerning ALAs shall be submitted to the Housing Division of the field office having jurisdiction over the area in which the production facility of the system is located, except that applications containing payment shall be addressed to the attention of the Collection Officer for deposit to Account No. 86-09-0300.
(c) Fees. Applicants for renewal and applicants for acceptance as program administrators under § 200.935 of this title shall include the entire processing fee with the application. All other applicants shall submit one half of the required processing fee with each application. The applicant shall pay the balance when the draft issuance is returned to HUD with the applicant’s concurrence signature. The Department will not prepare a final document for printing and distribution until it has received the full processing fee. From time to time, as may be necessary, the Department will establish and amend the fee schedule by publication of a Notice in the
(d) Initial application and review – (1) Content of applications. Each application shall include only one item. All applications will be promptly processed on receipt by the Department.
(i) With respect to Mechanical Engineering Bulletins (MEBs), Structural Engineering Bulletins (SEBs), Truss Connector Bulletins (TCBs), and Area Letters of Acceptance (ALAs), each structural design shall constitute a different item.
(ii) With respect to Materials Releases (MRs), each product or system shall constitute a different item.
(2) Revisions. A recipient of a technical suitability document issued by the Department may apply for revision of that document at any time. The revision may be in the form of an amendment of or supplement to the document, for which the recipient will be charged the applicable revision fee. However, where the Department determines that a proposed revision constitutes a different item, the schedule of fees for initial applications shall apply.
(3) Renewals. Each issuance shall be valid for a period of three years from the date of initial issuance or most recent renewal, whichever is later. An applicant shall submit an application for renewal with the entire required fee three months before the expiration of the three-year period. Failure to submit a timely renewal application along with the required fee shall constitute a basis for cancellation of the issuance.
(4) Initial and revision applications requiring further study or additional data. In its discretion, the Department may request an applicant to submit additional data or to conduct further study to supplement or clarify an initial application or an application for revision of a previously issued technical suitability document. If the applicant fails to comply with the Department’s request within ninety days of the date of that request or within such longer time as may be specified by the Secretary, the Department will return the application to the applicant. The Department will not refund any fees paid toward an application returned under this paragraph. The application will be considered further only if it is resubmitted along with payment of the full fee as required by these regulations.
(5) Ineligible applications. If the Secretary determines that an application or request will not be considered because it is not eligible for issuance of a technical suitability document, the Department will promptly return the application or request, refund any fees paid, and explain why the application or request is ineligible.
(6) Cancellation of a technical suitability document. If the Department determines that (i) the conditions under which a technical suitability document was issued have so changed as to affect the production of, or to compromise the integrity of, the material, product, or system approved thereby, or (ii) that the producer has changed its organizational form without notifying HUD, or (iii) that the producer is not complying with the responsibilities it assumed as a condition of HUD’s acceptance of its material, product or system, the Department will notify the producer or manufacturer that the technical suitability document may be cancelled. However, before cancelling a technical suitability document, the Department will give the manufacturer reasonable notice in writing of the specific reasons therefore and an opportunity to present its views on why the technical suitability document should not be cancelled. No refund of fees will be made on a cancelled document.
(e) Identification. (1) Applications for issuance of a MEB, SEB, TCB, or MR submitted to HUD Headquarters will be identified with a case number. The applicant will be notified of the case number when receipt of the application is acknowledged. Thereafter, the case number will be used on all correspondence relating to the application. When a final draft of a new document is prepared for publication and distribution, a bulletin or release number will be assigned to the new issuance.
(2) In the case of an application for an ALA submitted to a field office, the application will be processed in accordance with the identification and processing procedures established by the responsible field office. The field office will notify the applicant of receipt of the application and inform the applicant of the procedures that will be followed with respect to the issuance of an ALA.
§ 200.935 Administrator qualifications and procedures for HUD building products certification programs.
(a) General. This section establishes administrator qualifications and procedures for the HUD Building Products Certification Programs under section 521 of the National Housing Act and the HUD Minimum Property Standards. Under these programs organizations acceptable to HUD validate manufacturers’ certifications that certain building products or materials meet applicable standards. HUD may decide to implement a certification program for a particular building product or material for a variety of reasons, such as when deemed necessary by HUD to facilitate the introduction of new and innovative products or materials; or in response to reports of fraud or misrepresentation by manufacturers in advertising that their product or materials comply with a standard.
(b) Definitions – (1) Certification program (“program”). The procedure under which accepted administrators validate manufacturers’ certifications that particular building products or materials meet applicable HUD standards. A separate program is used to validate certifications for each particular product or material for which HUD requires certifications.
(2) Program administrator (“administrator”). An organization which conducts the program validating the manufacturer’s certification that a particular building product or material meets applicable HUD standards.
(c) Administrator qualifications and application procedures – (1) Qualifications. Each program administrator shall be capable of conducting a certification program with respect to organization, staff and facilities, and have a reputation for adhering to high ethical standards. To be considered acceptable for conducting a certification program, each administrator shall:
(i) Be a technically qualified organization with past experience in the administration of certification programs. The certification program(s) shall be under the supervision of a qualified professional with six years of experience in interpreting testing standards, test methods, evaluating test reports and quality control programs. Each administrator is responsible for staffing the program with qualified professional personnel with experience in interpreting testing standards, test methods, evaluating test reports and quality control programs. The staff shall be adequate to service all aspects of the program.
(ii) Have field inspectors trained to make selections of materials for testing from manufacturer’s stock or from distributors’ establishments and to conduct product compliance inspections. Such inspectors must be trained and experienced in evaluating manufacturer’s quality control records to ascertain with a reasonable degree of assurance that continuing production remains in compliance with the applicable standard set forth in the Use of Materials (UM) Bulletin. When inspectors are used to evaluate laboratory operations, they shall be qualified and under the supervision of the administrator. They shall be knowledgeable in such areas as test methods, quality control, testing techniques, and instrument calibration.
(iii) Have facilities and capabilities for communications with manufacturers, laboratories, and HUD, including publication of a directory of certified products and a list of accredited laboratories, if required by the program.
(iv) Have adequate policies and practices for preserving information entrusted to its care. HUD reserves the right to review all technical records related to the program for the purpose of monitoring.
(v) Have a copy of all applicable standards, test methods and related information necessary to carry out the program.
(vi) Have a registered or pending certification mark at the United States Patent Office and be willing to license, on a uniform basis, the use of that mark by manufacturers as a validation of the manufacturer’s certification that the product complies with the applicable standard.
(2) Applications procedures. Any organization desiring HUD acceptance as a qualified administrator to conduct a certification program shall make application in writing to the Director, Office of Architecture and Engineering Standards. The application shall state the particular certification program for which acceptance is requested and include information indicating compliance with each of the qualification requirements by number and subsection. Attached to the application shall be:
(i) A list of certification programs in which the organization is participating or has participated and the types of participation (sponsor, administrator, testing laboratory, etc.).
(ii) A procedural guide used in one of these programs.
(iii) A directory or listing used in one of these programs.
(iv) A reproduction or facsimile of the organization’s registered or pending mark.
(v) A proposed procedural guide for the particular certification program. HUD certification program procedures described in paragraph (d) of this section shall be followed.
(3) Acceptance. HUD shall review each submission and notify the applicant whether or not they are accepted or rejected. HUD shall be notified immediately of any change(s) in the administrator’s submission regarding program procedures and/or major personnel associated with the program. HUD reserves the right to suspend or debar an administrator in accordance with 2 CFR part 2424.
(d) HUD building products certification procedures – (1) Certification program development. Certification program development by an administrator shall be based upon the procedures and standards for the specific building product described in a Use of Materials Bulletin or a Materials Release.
(2) License agreement. Each administrator shall have a written license agreement with each participating manufacturer binding each to the provisions of the specific program and authorizing the manufacturer to use the administrator’s mark, seal, or label on its products. The administrator shall have the right to terminate any agreement prior to an expiration date, for example, if there has been a breach of the requirement of the certification program by the manufacturer.
(3) Laboratory approval. The administrator shall review laboratories that apply for participation in this program on the basis of the procedures described in paragraph (e) of this section. A list of approved laboratories shall be maintained by the administrator. When the certification program allows the use of the administrator’s testing laboratories, the laboratories shall be reviewed by a qualified party acceptable to HUD. As accreditation procedures are made available through the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP) for specific products, HUD may require such accreditation.
(4) Initial testing and quality control review – (i) Initial testing. Each participating manufacturer shall submit to the appropriate administrator, the product(s) specification and statement(s) that the product complies with the applicable standard. The administrator shall select samples of the product(s), or when HUD specifies as acceptable, a prototype. The particular method of sample selection shall be determined by HUD for each specific product certification program. Other methods of initial sample selection may be used if deemed necessary. If a failure occurs on the initial tests, additional sampling and testing may be done at the manufacturer’s request. The administrator’s validation of the manufacturer’s declaration of certification shall be withheld until a finding of compliance is achieved.
(ii) Quality assurance system review. (A) Each administrator shall examine a participating manufacturer’s facilities and quality assurance system procedures to determine that they are adequate to assure continuing production of the product that complies with the applicable standard. These quality assurance system procedures shall be documented in the administrator’s and the manufacturer’s files. If a manufacturer’s quality assurance system is not satisfactory to the administrator, validation of the manufacturer’s declaration of certification shall be withheld. The following American Society for Quality Control (ASQC) standards, which are incorporated by reference, may be used as guidelines in any quality assurance review:
(1) ASQC Q9000-1-1994 Quality Management and Quality Assurance Standards Guidelines for Selection and Use;
(2) ASQC Q9001-1994 Quality Systems – Model for Quality Assurance in Design, Development, Production, Installation, and Servicing;
(3) ASQC Q9002-1994 Quality Systems – Model for Quality Assurance in Production, Installation, and Servicing;
(4) ASQC Q9003-1994 Quality Systems – Model for Quality Assurance in Final Inspection and Test;
(5) ASQC Q9004-1-1994 Quality Management and Quality System Elements-Guidelines.
(B) These standards have been approved by the Director of the Federal Register for incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. They are available from the American Society for Quality Control (ASQC), 611 East Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53202.
(5) Notice of validation. When initial testing, quality control review, and evaluation of other technical data are satisfactory to the administrator, a Notice of Validation or Certification shall be issued to the manufacturer. This allows the use of the administrator’s registered mark on the product label.
(6) Labeling. Each administrator shall issue to the manufacturer labels, tags, marks containing the administrator’s validation mark, and the manufacturer’s certification of compliance with the applicable standard. The registered administrator’s (validator’s) mark shall be on the label. A sponsor’s (association, testing agencies, society or others) mark may be used in addition to the administrator’s mark. The manufacturer’s certification of compliance to the standard may be coded. Additional information such as type, grade, class, etc., may also be coded. When coding is used, the code shall be described in the directory or listing.
(7) Directory or listing. When required by the program, the administrator shall publish a directory or listing for all certified products. The directory shall list the items described in paragraph (d)(6) of this section. The directly shall also carry a complete list of approved laboratories and shall be updated to reflect additions or deletions of certified products and laboratories. Directories or listings shall be published periodically as described in the specific program. Each administrator shall make a complimentary distribution of the directory or listing to the HUD Field Offices and other government agencies designated by HUD. A subscription fee may be charged to others requesting copies.
(8) Periodic tests and quality control inspections. Samples of the certified product or prototype shall be selected periodically from the plant, warehouse inventory or sales points. The samples shall be sent to an administrator-approved laboratory and tested in accordance with the applicable standard. The frequency of testing shall be described in the specific building product program. The administrator shall periodically visit the manufacturer’s facility to assure that the initially accepted quality control procedures are being followed.
(9) Product decertification. If a failure should occur in any test, the laboratory shall notify the administrator and the manufacturer. The manufacturer shall notify the administrator if a retest if requested. If a retest is not requested, validation shall be withdrawn. If the manufacturer requests a retest, the administrator shall select new samples and submit them to the same or another laboratory at the manufacturer’s expense, for retest of only the test requirement(s) in which the failure(s) occurred. If the specified number of specimens pass the retest, the product can continue to be validated and listed. If the designated number of specimens described in the UM Bulletin fail, the administrator shall decertify the product. The manufacturer may request that a new selection be made of the product after correction or modifications and be subjected to the initial acceptance testing procedure or to a program of retesting established by the administrator. The administrator may decertify the product on the basis of inadequate quality control by the manufacturer. The administrator shall notify the manufacturer, HUD headquarters and the HUD Field Offices of any decertification within 7 days. When the product is decertified the manufacturer shall remove labels, tags or marks from all production and inventory in his/her control determined to be in noncompliance.
(10) Challenge response. Any person or organization may submit a sample of a manufacturer’s certified product to the administrator in substantiation of a claim of noncompliance. Submission shall be made to the administrator that validated the manufacturer’s product. The administrator shall notify the manufacturer that its product has been challenged and shall make arrangements to obtain test samples of the challenged product. An estimate of the cost of the special sample selection and testing shall be made to the complainant. The complainant shall pay the estimated cost of the investigation in advance of any testing of the challenged product, unless HUD believes the complaint to be in the public’s interest. HUD may conduct its own investigation when deemed necessary based upon a complaint or a product failure. The administrator shall submit the sample of the challenged product to an approved laboratory of the administrator’s choice with the request to test compliance of only the challenged requirement(s). If the samples tested prove that the product failed to meet the standard, the product shall be decertified immediately. The manufacturer whose product is decertified shall reimburse the administrator for all costs of the investigation and the administrator shall refund the complainant’s advance payment. If the tests prove that the product does comply with the standard, the complainant shall be notified that the tests do not support the complaint and that the advance fee has been used for the cost of testing and investigating the claim.
(11) Maintenance of the program. Each administrator shall maintain the program in conformance with administrative letters issued by HUD for the purpose of clarifying procedures and interpreting the applicable standard. These letters may also be used to revise and amend the procedures used in specific programs. Significant changes in any program shall be published in the
(e) Laboratory qualifications. The following laboratory qualifications apply to all testing laboratories participating in the program including manufacturer’s laboratories and the administrator’s own laboratories when designated in the specific program.
(1) Organization and personnel. Laboratories wishing to participate in a certification program shall apply to the administrator and shall furnish the following information:
(i) Name of laboratory, address, telephone number, name and title of official to be contacted for this program.
(ii) Name and qualifications of person assigned by the laboratory to supervise testing under a specific certification program.
(iii) Name and qualifications of engineers and other key personnel who shall conduct the testing.
(iv) Brief review of training program for personnel associated with program to assure the operational efficiency and uniformity of the testing and quality control procedures.
(2) Equipment and facilities. Each laboratory shall:
(i) Describe the test instruments and testing facilities to be used in making the test(s) required by the applicable standard. Information shall include: Item of equipment, manufacturer, type or model, serial number, range, precision, frequency of calibration and dates of calibration.
(ii) Provide photographs of the listed equipment.
(iii) Provide a description of the applicable standards and calibration equipment being used and the calibration procedures followed, including National Bureau of Standards traceability, when applicable. List outside organizations providing calibration services, if used.
(iv) Demonstrate that measurements can be made with existing equipment and repeated precision within the limits established by the applicable standards. Administrator may periodically require laboratories to conduct collaborative testing on standard reference materials.
(v) Provide evidence, when regulated temperatures and humidity are required, that charts are maintained from a continuous recorder registering both wet and dry bulb temperature or relative humidity. The charts are to be properly dated, retained and available for inspection.
(vi) Provide a list of standards, test methods and other information necessary to carry out the program.
(3) Testing methodology. (i) Describe concisely the procedures for conducting the tests required and the specific equipment to be used.
(ii) Attach a sample test report showing representative test results and accompanied by test data forms for each test required. When approved for program participation, testing laboratories may be required by administrator to report test results on standard summary report forms.
(4) Subcontractors. If a testing laboratory plans to subcontract any of its testing to other laboratories, only approved laboratories acceptable to the administrator shall be used.
(5) Laboratory quality control. The laboratory shall develop operating quality control procedures acceptable to the administrator. The procedures of the American Council of Independent Laboratories
(6) Approval of laboratories. Administrators shall develop detailed laboratory approval requirements and conduct periodic inspections to assure each test laboratory’s capability. Laboratory approval may be granted for 2 years. Reapproval of the laboratory shall be necessary every 2 years. When a program allows the use of an administrator’s own laboratories, these laboratories shall be reviewed by a qualified third party acceptable to HUD. Documentation of acceptance for administrator laboratories shall be maintained by the administrator and HUD. Administrator laboratories shall be subject to reapproval every two years.
(7) Withdrawal of approval. Laboratory approval shall be withdrawn or temporarily suspended if it is determined that the laboratory is not complying with the approved requirements. Causes for suspension include, but are not limited to, the following:
(i) Incompetence.
(ii) Failure to test in accordance with the test methods described in the standard.
(iii) Issuance of test reports which fail to comply with the requirements described in the specific product certification program.
(iv) Falsification of the information reported.
(v) A statement implying validation of the product using a test report which constitutes only part of the total standard.
(vi) Deceptively utilizing references in advertising or other promotional activities.
(vii) Submission of incomplete or inadequate information and documentation called for herein.
§ 200.936 Supplementary specific procedural requirements under HUD building products certification program for solid fuel type room heaters and fireplace stoves.
(a) Applicable standards. Solid fuel type room heaters and fireplace stoves certified under the HUD Building Products Certification Program shall be designed, assembled and tested in conformance with the following standards, which are incorporated by reference:
(1) ANSI/UL 737 (1978), for fireplace stoves;
(2) ANSI/UL 1482 (1979), for solid fuel type room heaters with coal amendments.
(b) Labelling. (1) Under the procedures set forth in paragraph (d)(6) of § 200.935, concerning labelling of a product, the administrator’s validation mark and the manufacturer’s certification of compliance with the applicable standards are required to be on the certification label issued by the administrator to the manufacturer. In the case of solid fuel type room heaters and fireplace stoves, the following additional information must be included on the certification label:
(i) The manufacturer’s statement of conformance to the HUD Building Products Certification Program;
(ii) The manufacturer’s name and the identity and location of manufacturing plant;
(iii) The specification designation and manufacturer series or model number; and
(iv) The type of fuel to be used.
(2) The certification label must be permanently affixed to the heater or stove and be readily visible after the heater or stove is installed.
(c) Periodic tests and quality control inspections. Under the procedures set forth in paragraph (d)(8) of § 200.935, concerning periodic tests and quality control inspections, the frequency of testing for a product must be described in the specific building product certification program. In the case of solid fuel type room heaters and fireplace stoves, testing and inspection shall be conducted as follows:
(1) Once every four years, beginning with the initial administrator visit, a sample of each certified product shall be selected by the administrator for testing for compliance with the applicable standards in a laboratory which has been accredited under the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program.
(2) The administrator shall visit the manufacturer’s facility two times a year to assure that the initially accepted quality control procedures are being followed.
§ 200.937 Supplementary specific procedural requirements under HUD building product standards and certification program for plastic bathtub units, plastic shower receptors and stalls, plastic lavatories, plastic water closet bowls and tanks.
(a) Applicable standards. (1) Plastic bathtub units, plastic shower receptors and stalls, plastic lavatories, and plastic water closet bowls and tanks shall be designed, assembled and tested in compliance with the following standards, which are incorporated by reference:
(2) These standards have been approved by the Director of the Federal Register for incorporation by reference. They are available from the American National Standards Institute, Inc., 11 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036. The standards are also available for inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
(b) Labeling. (1) Under the procedures set forth in paragraph (d)(6) of § 200.935, concerning labeling of a product, the administrator’s validation mark and the manufacturer’s certification of compliance with the applicable standards are required to be on the certification label issued by the administrator to the manufacturer. In the case of plastic bathtub units, plastic shower receptors and stalls, plastic lavatories, and plastic water closet bowls and tanks, the following additional information shall be included on the certification label:
(i) Manufacturer’s statement of conformance to UM 73a;
(ii) Manufacturer’s name and code identifying the plant location.
(2) The certification label shall be affixed to each plastic bathroom fixture.
(c) Periodic tests and quality control inspections. Under the procedures set forth in paragraph (d)(8) of § 200.935, concerning periodic tests and quality control inspections, the frequency of testing for a product shall be described in the specific building product certification program. In the case of plastic bathroom fixtures, testing and inspection shall be conducted as follows:
(1) At least every six months, the administrator shall visit the manufacturer’s facility to select a sample of each certified plastic bathtub unit, plastic shower receptor and stall, plastic water closet bowl and tank for testing in an approved laboratory, in accordance with applicable standards.
(2) At least every twelve months, the administrator shall visit the manufacturer’s facility to select a sample of each certified plastic lavatory for testing in accordance with applicable standards.
(3) The administrator shall also review quality control procedures at each visit to determine that they continue to be followed.
§ 200.940 Supplementary specific requirements under the HUD building product standards and certification program for sealed insulating glass units.
(a) Applicable standards. (1) All sealed insulating glass units shall be designed, manufactured, and tested in compliance with the American Society for Testing and Materials standard: ASTM E-774-92 Standard Specification for Sealed Insulating Glass Units.
(2) This standard has been approved by the Director of the Federal Register for incorporation by reference. The standard is available from the American Society for Testing and Materials, 1916 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103. This standard is also available for inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
(b) Labeling. Under the procedures set forth in § 200.935(d)(6) concerning labeling of a product, the administrator’s validation mark and the manufacturer’s certification of compliance with the applicable standards are issued by the administrator to the manufacturer. Each sealed insulating glass unit shall be marked as conforming to UM 82a. The label shall be located on each sealed insulating unit so that it is available for inspection. The label shall include the manufacturer’s name and plant location.
(c) Periodic tests and quality assurance inspections. Under the procedures set forth in § 200.935(d)(8) concerning periodic tests and quality assurance inspections, the frequency of testing for a product shall be described in the specific building product certification program. In the case of sealed insulating glass units, testing and inspection shall be conducted as follows:
(1) At least once a year, the administrator shall visit the manufacturer’s facility to select a sample, of the maximum size commercially available, for testing in a laboratory approved by the administrator.
(2) The administrator shall also review the quality assurance procedures twice a year to assure that they are being followed by the manufacturer.
§ 200.942 Supplementary specific procedural requirements under HUD building product standards and certification program for carpet and carpet with attached cushion.
(a) Applicable standards. (1) Carpet and carpet with attached cushion certified for this program shall be designed, manufactured and tested in accordance with the following standards:
(i) AATCC 20A-81 – Fiber Analysis: Quantitative;
(ii) AATCC 16E-82 – Colorfastness to Light: Water-Cooled Xenon-Arc Lamp, Continuous Light;
(iii) AATCC 8-85 – Colorfastness to Crocking: AATCC Crockmeter Method;
(iv) AATCC 24-85 – Insect, Resistance to Textiles to;
(v) ASTM D1335-67 (Reapproved 1972) – Standard Test Method for Tuft Bind of Pile Floor Coverings;
(vi) ASTM D3676-78 (Reapproved 1983) – Standard Specification for Rubber Cellular Cushion Used for Carpet or Rug Underlay;
(vii) ASTM E648-78 – Standard Test Method for Critical Radiant Flux of Floor-Covering Systems Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source;
(viii) ASTM D2646-79 – Standard Methods of Testing Backing Fabrics;
(ix) ASTM D3936-80 – Standard Test Method for Delamination Strength of Secondary Backing of Pile Floor Coverings;
(x) ASTM D297-81 – Standard Methods for Rubber Products – Chemical Analysis;
(xi) ASTM D418-82 – Standard Methods of Testing Pile Yarn Floor Covering Construction; and
(xii) National Bureau of Standards DOC FF 1-70. (ASTM D2859-76) – Standard Test Method for Flammability of Finished Textile Floor Covering Materials.
(2) These standards have been approved by the Director of the Federal Register for incorporation by reference. They are available from the (i) American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC), P.O. Box 12215, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709;
(ii) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 1916 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103; and
(iii) U.S. Department of Commerce, National Bureau of Standards, Washington, DC 20234.
(b) Labeling. (1) Under the procedures set forth in § 202.935(d)(6), concerning labeling of a product, the administrator’s validation mark and the manufacturer’s certification of compliance with the applied standard is required to be on the certification label issued by the administrator to the manufacturer. In the case of carpet and carpet with attached cushion, the following additional information shall be included on the certification label, mark or stamp:
(i) Manufacturer’s name or code identifying the manufacturing plant location; and
(ii) Manufacturer’s statement of compliance with UM 44d.
(2) The certification mark shall be applied to each carpet at intervals of at least every six feet, not less than one foot from the edge.
(c) Periodic tests and quality control inspections. (1) Five samples of carpet and carpet with attached cushion shall be tested annually by the administrator or by an administrator-approved laboratory. Three samples of each certified quality shall be taken from the plant annually. Of these, two shall be interim samples (taken every six months) and one an annual sample. In addition, two samples of each certified quality shall be taken annually from sources other than the manufacturer, i.e., brought in the market place from distributors or stores, not from the factory. The administrator shall select samples for testing, and testing shall be conducted, in accordance with the applicable standards in a laboratory accredited by the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP) of the National Bureau of Standards, U.S. Department of Commerce.
(2) The administrator shall visit the manufacturer’s facility at least once every six months to assure that the initially accepted quality control procedures continue to be followed.
§ 200.943 Supplementary specific requirements under the HUD building product standards and certification program for the grademarking of lumber.
(a) Applicable standard. (1) In accordance with UM 38j, lumber shall be grademarked in compliance with the U.S. Department of Commerce Voluntary Product Standard PS 20-94 American Softwood Lumber Standard.
(2) This standard has been approved by the Director of the Federal Register for incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. It is available from the U.S. Department of Commerce, NIST, Office of Voluntary Product Standards, Gaithersburg, MD 20899.
(b) Labeling. Under the procedures set forth in § 200.935(d)(6) concerning labeling of a product, the administrator’s validation mark and the manufacturer’s certification of compliance with the applicable standard are required on the certification label issued by the administrator to the manufacturer. However, in the case of grademarking of lumber, the following information shall be included on the certification label or mark:
(1) The registered symbol which identifies the grading agency;
(2) Species or species combination;
(3) Grade;
(4) Identification of the applicable grading rules when not indicated by the species identification or agency symbol;
(5) Mill or grader;
(6) For members which are less than 5 inches in nominal thickness, indication that the lumber was green or dry at the time of dressing;
(7) Indication that the lumber was finger jointed; and
(8) The certification mark shall be affixed to each piece of lumber.
(c) Periodic tests and quality assurance. Periodic tests and quality assurance inspections shall be carried out by the American Lumber Standard Committee as defined in PS 20-94.
§ 200.944 Supplementary specific requirements under the HUD building product standards and certification program for plywood and other performance rated wood-based structural-use panels.
(a)(1) All plywood made to specifications of Voluntary Product Standard, PS 1-83, “Construction and Industrial Plywood” (published by the U.S. Department of Commerce, National Bureau of Standards (May 1984)) and grade marked as PS 1-83 shall conform to the requirements of PS 1-83, except that all veneers may be D-grade. A copy of PS 1-83 may be obtained from the U.S. Department of Commerce, National Institute for Standards and Technology, Office of Product Standards, Gaithersburg, MD 20899.
(2) All plywood panels not meeting the veneer grade requirements of PS 1-83, and all performance rated composite and nonveneer structural-use panels shall comply with the requirements described in the APA PRP-108, “Performance Standards and Policies for Structural-Use panels” (published by the American Plywood Association, June 1988). However, in ASTM D-3043-87, “Standard Methods of Testing Structural Panels in Flexure” (published by the American Society for Testing and Materials, August 28, 1987), Method B may be used in lieu of Method C for measuring the mechanical properties of the panel, provided that the test specimen has a width of at least 12 inches. The impact load shall be 150 ft. lbs. for single-layer floor panels excluding any floor finishes. Copies of the APA Standard may be obtained from the American Plywood Association, P.O. Box 11700, Tacoma, WA 98411-0770. Copies of the ASTM Standard may be obtained from the American Society of Testing and Materials, 1916 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103.
(3) Structural-use panels shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions and Form No. E30K, “APA Design/Construction Guide-Residential and Commercial” (published by the American Plywood Association, January 1989).
(4) These standards have been approved by the Director of the Federal Register for incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Copies of the standards are available for inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
(b) Labeling. Under the procedures set forth in § 200.935(d)(6) concerning labeling of a product, the administrator’s validation mark and the manufacturer’s certification of compliance with the applicable standards are required to be on the certification label issued by the administrator to the manufacturer. Panels that conform to the Performance Standards and Policy for Structural-Use Panels shall be marked as conforming to UM 40c. All panels complying with APA PRP-108 shall be marked with a label formatted in the manner similar to the trademark examples shown in APA PRP-108. All panels will be marked with the mill number. The certification mark shall be stamped on each panel and be located so that it is available for inspection.
(c) Periodic tests and qualify control inspections. Under the procedures set forth in § 200.935(d)(8) concerning periodic tests and quality control inspections, the frequency of testing for a product shall be described in the specific building product certification program. In the case of plywood and wood-based structural-use panels, testing and inspection shall be conducted as follows:
(1) Testing shall be done in an Administrator’s laboratory or an Administrator-approved laboratory every three months. All plywood qualified for conformance with PS 1-83 shall be tested in accordance with PS 1-83.
(2) All thickness and lay-ups of structural-use panels in production made in conformance with the Performance Standards shall be tested in accordance with procedures set forth in APA PRP-108 Performance Standards and Policies for Structural-Use Panels (published by the American Plywood Association Standard June 1988).
(3) The Administrator shall examine each manufacturer’s quality control procedures to assure they are the same as or equivalent to those set forth under the Quality Assurance Policy section 4.2.3 of the publication referenced in paragraph (2) above or PS 1-83 section 3.8.6.6, Reexamination.
(4) The Administrator shall inspect the manufacturer’s procedures at the plant at least every three months to assure that the initially accepted quality control procedures are being followed.
§ 200.945 Supplementary specific requirements under the HUD building product standards and certification program for carpet.
(a) Applicable standards. (1) All carpet shall be designed, manufactured, and tested in compliance with the following standards from the American Society for Testing and Materials and the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists:
(i) ASTM D418-92 – Standard Test Methods for Tuft and Yarn Length of Uncoated Floor Coverings;
(ii) ASTM D1335-67 – (Reapproved 1972) Standard Test Method for Tuft Bind of Pile Floor Coverings;
(iii) ASTM D 2646-87 – Standard Test Methods for Backing Fabrics;
(iv) ASTM D 3936-80 – Standard Test Method for Delamination Strength of Secondary Backing of Pile Floor Coverings;
(v) AATCC Test Method 16e-82 – Colorfastness to Light: Water-Cooled Xenon-Arc Lamp, Continuous Light;
(vi) AATCC Test Method 165-86 – Colorfastness to Crocking: Carpets – AATCC Crock Meter Method;
(vii) ASTM D 3676-78 – (Reapproved 1989) Standard Specification for Rubber Cellular Cushion Used for Carpet or Rug Underlay;
(viii) ASTM D 3574-91 – Standard Test Methods for Flexible Cellular Materials – Slab, Bonded and Molded Urethane Foams.
(2) These standards have been approved by the Director of the Federal Register for incorporation by reference. The standards are available from the American Society for Testing and Materials, 1916 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103 and the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists, P.O. Box 12215, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709. These standards are also available for inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
(b) Labeling. Under the procedures set forth in § 200.935(d)(6) concerning labeling of a product, the administrator’s validation mark and the manufacturer’s certification of compliance with UM 44d are required to be on the certification label issued by the Administrator to the manufacturer. The label shall be placed on each carpet every six feet not less than one foot from the edge.
(c) Periodic tests and quality assurance inspection. Under the procedure set forth in § 200.935(d)(8), testing and inspection shall be conducted as follows:
(1) Every six months, three samples and one annual field sample of carpet shall be submitted to the Administrator for testing in a laboratory accredited by the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program of the U.S. Department of Commerce.
(2) The administrator also shall review the quality assurance procedures every six months to assure that they are being followed by the manufacturer.
§ 200.946 Building product standards and certification program for exterior finish and insulation systems, use of Materials Bulletin UM 101.
(a) Applicable standards: (1) All Exterior Finish and Insulation Systems shall be designed, manufactured, and tested in compliance with the following standards:
(i) ASCE 7-93, American Society of Civil Engineers – Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures.
(ii) ASTM C 150-94 Standard Specification for Portland Cement.
(iii) ASTM C 920-87 Standard Specification for Elastomeric Joint Sealants.
(iv) ASTM C-1186-91 Standard Specification for Flat Non-Asbestos Fiber-Cement Sheets.
(v) ASTM D 579-90 Standard Specification for Greige Woven Glass Fabrics.
(vi) ASTM D 3273-86 – (Reapproved 1991) Standard Test Method for Resistance to Growth of Mold on the Surface of Interior Coatings in an Environmental Chamber.
(vii) ASTM E 330-90 Standard Test Method for Structural Performance of Exterior Windows, Curtain Walls, and Doors by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference.
(viii) ASTM E 695-79 (Reapproved 1991), Standard Method of Measuring Relative Resistance of Wall, Floor, and Roof Construction to Impact Loading.
(ix) ASTM G 26-93 Standard Practice for Operating Light-Exposure Apparatus (Xenon-Arc Type) With and Without Water for Exposure of Nonmetallic Materials.
(x) Council of American Building Officials, Model Energy Code, 1993 Edition.
(xi) EIMA Test Method 101.01-95 (modified ASTM C67-91) Standard Test Method for Freeze/Thaw Resistance of Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS), Class PB.
(xii) EIMA Test Method 101.02-95 (modified ASTM E331-91) – Standard Test Method for Resistance to Water Penetration of Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS), Class PB.
(xiii) EIMA Test Method 101.03-95 (modified ASTM C297-91) – Standard Test Method for Determining the Tensile Adhesion Strength of an Exterior Insulation and Finish System (EIFS), Class PB.
(xiv) EIMA Test Method 105.01-95 – Standard Test Method for Alkali Resistance of Glass Fiber Reinforcing Mesh for Use in Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS), Class PB.
(xv) European Agreement Union Technical Committee – June 88 – UEAtc Directives for the Assessment of External Insulation System for Walls (Expanded Polystyrene Insulation Faced with a Thin Rendering) Section 3.3.3.3.
(2) These standards have been approved by the Director of the Federal Register for incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. They are available from:
(i) American Society Civil Engineers (ASCE) 345 East 47th Street, New York, NY 10017.
(ii) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 1916 Race Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103;
(iii) Council of American Building Officials, 5203 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, Virginia 22041;
(iv) EAUTC Centre Scientifique ET Technique Du Batiment (CSTB), 84 Avenue Jesu Jaures, B.P. 02-77421 Marne-LA-Valee Cedex 2, Paris, France.
(v) Exterior Insulation Manufacturers Association (EIMA), 2759 State Road 580, Suite 112, Clearwater, Florida 34621-3350.
(3) The standards are available also for inspection at the Office of Manufactured Housing and Regulatory Functions, Standards and Products Branch, Department of Housing and Urban Development, room 3214, L’Enfant Plaza, 490E, Mail Room B-133, Washington, DC 20410-8000, and at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
(b) Labeling. Under the procedures as set forth in § 200.935(d)(6), concerning labeling of a product, the administrator’s validation mark and the manufacturer’s certification of compliance with the applied standard is required to be on the certification label issued by the administrator to the manufacturers. In the case of exterior wall insulation and finish systems, the certification label containing the administrator’s mark shall be permanently affixed on the package or container of base and finish coating materials. Further, additional information shall be included on the certification label or mark:
(1) Manufacturer’s name.
(2) Manufacturer’s statement of conformance with UM 101.
(c) The Administrator shall visit the manufacturer’s or sponsor’s facility every 6 months, to assure that the initially accepted quality assurance procedures are being followed. At least every four years, the Administrator also shall have the exterior wall insulation and finish systems tested in an approved laboratory to assure that the original performance is maintained.
(d) The administrator’s (or administration-accepted inspection agency) inspection of EFIS system installation of 5000 sq. ft. or more, shall be made during and upon completion of the construction. Reports of the inspection shall be made to the owner. These reports shall state:
(1) The coverage of the finish coat per square foot for a given volume of finish.
(2) The minimum thickness of the base and finish coatings.
(3) The fiberglass mesh is installed properly around joints and insulation. All penetrations, including windows, flashing, etc., are sealed; and there is a caulk and sealant continuity evaluation; and
(4) There is a caulk and sealant continuity evaluation with special concerns on maintenance.
(e) The manufacturer shall warrant their exterior wall insulation and finish system, including any caulks and sealants, for twenty years against faulty performance. The warranty shall include correction of delamination, chipping, denting, peeling, blistering, flaking, bulging, unsightly discoloration, or other serious deterioration of the system such as the intrusion of water through the wall or structural failure of the system’s surface materials. Should any of these defects occur, the manufacturer shall make a pro-rata allowance for replacement or pay the owner the amount of the allowance. The manufacturer shall not be liable for damages or defects resulting from misuse, natural catastrophes, or other causes beyond the control of the manufacturer. The contractor shall provide a statement to the owner that the product has been installed in compliance with HUD requirements and that the manufacturer’s warranty does not relieve the builder, in any way, of responsibility under the terms of the Builder’s Warranty required by the National Housing Act, or under any other housing program.
§ 200.947 Building product standards and certification program for polystyrene foam insulation board.
(a) Applicable standards. (1) All polystyrene foam insulation board shall be designed, manufactured, and tested in compliance with the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standard C-578-92, Standard Specification for Rigid, Cellular Polystyrene Thermal Insulation.
(2) This standard has been approved by the Director of the Federal Register for incorporation by reference. The standard is available from the American Society for Testing and Materials, 1916 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103. This standard is also available for inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
(b) Labeling. Under the procedures set forth in § 200.935(d)(6) concerning labeling of a product, the administrator’s certification of compliance with the applicable standards and the type of board are required to be on the certification label issued by the administrator to the manufacturer.
(c) Periodic tests and quality assurance inspection. Under the procedure set forth in § 200.935(d)(8), testing and inspection shall be conducted as follows:
(1) At least every six months, the administrator shall visit the manufacturer’s facility to select a sample of each certified polystyrene foam insulation board for testing by a laboratory approved by the administrator.
(2) The administrator also shall review the quality assurance procedures every six months to assure that they are being followed by the manufacturer.
§ 200.948 Building product standards and certification program for carpet cushion.
(a) Applicable standards. (1) All carpet cushion shall be designed, manufactured, and tested in compliance with the following standards from the American Society for Testing and Materials:
(i) ASTM D 1667-76 – (Reapproved 1990) Standard Specification for Flexible Cellular Materials – Vinyl Chloride Polymers and Copolymers (Closed-Cell Foam);
(ii) ASTM D2646-87 – Standard Test Methods for Backing Fabrics;
(iii) ASTM D629-88 – Standard Test Methods for Quantitative Analysis of Textiles;
(iv) ASTM D3574-91 – Standard Test Methods for Flexible Cellular Materials – Slab, Bonded, and Molded Urethane Foams;
(v) ASTM D3676-78 – Standard Specification for Rubber Cellular Cushion Used for Carpet or Rug Underlay.
(2) These standards have been approved by the Director of the Federal Register for incorporation by reference. The standards are available from the American Society for Testing Materials, 1916 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103. These standards are also available for inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
(b) Labeling. Under the procedures set forth in § 200.935(d)(6) concerning labeling of a product, the administrator’s validation mark, the manufacturer’s certification of compliance with the applicable standards, and the type and class all are required to be on the certification label issued by the administrator to the manufacturer.
(c) Periodic tests and quality assurance inspection. Under the procedure set forth in § 200.935(d)(8), testing and inspection shall be conducted as follows:
(1) At least every six months, the administrator shall visit the manufacturer’s facility to select a sample of each certified carpet cushion for testing by a laboratory approved by the administrator.
(2) The administrator also shall review the quality assurance procedures every six months to assure that they are being followed by the manufacturer.
§ 200.949 Building product standards and certification program for exterior insulated steel door systems.
(a) Applicable standards. (1) All Exterior Insulated Steel Door Systems shall be designed, manufactured, and tested in compliance with the following standards from the American Society for Testing and Materials and Insulated Steel Door Systems Institute:
(i) ASTM A591/A591M-89 – Standard Specification for Steel Sheet, Electrolytic-Zinc Coated, for Light Coating Mass Applications;
(ii) ISDSI-100-90 – Door Size Dimensional Standard and Assembly Tolerances for Insulated Steel Door Systems;
(iii) ISDSI-101-83 – (Reapproved 1989) Air Infiltration Performance Standard for Insulated Steel Door Systems;
(iv) ISDSI-102-84 – Installation Standard for Insulated Steel Door Systems;
(v) ISDSI-104-86 – Water Penetration Performance Standard for Insulated Steel Door Systems;
(vi) ISDSI-105-80 – Test Procedure and Acceptance Criteria for Physical Endurance for Steel Doors and Hardware Reinforcings;
(vii) ISDSI-106-80 – Test Procedure and Acceptance Criteria for Prime Painted Steel Surfaces for Steel Doors and Frames;
(viii) ISDSI-107-80 – Thermal Performance Standard for Insulated Steel Door Systems;
(ix) ASTM F476-84 – (Reapproved 1991) Standard Test Methods for Security of Swinging Door Assemblies.
(2) These standards have been approved by the Director of the Federal Register for incorporation by reference. These standards are available from the American Society for Testing and Materials, 1916 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103 or the Insulated Steel Door Institute, 712 Lakewood Center North, 14600 Detroit Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44107. These standards are also available for inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
(b) Labeling. Under the procedures set forth in § 200.935(d)(6) concerning labeling of a product, the administrator’s certification of compliance with the applicable standards is required to be on the certification label issued by the administrator to the manufacturer.
(c) Periodic tests and quality assurance inspection. Under the procedure set forth in § 200.935(d)(8), testing and inspection shall be conducted as follows:
(1) At least every four years, the administrator shall visit the manufacturer’s facility to select a sample of each certified exterior insulated steel door system for testing by an approved laboratory in accordance with the applicable standard.
(2) The administrator also shall review the quality assurance procedures every year to assure that they are being followed by the manufacturer.
§ 200.950 Building product standards and certification program for solar water heating system.
(a) Applicable standards. (1) All solar water heating systems shall be designed, manufactured, and tested in compliance with Solar Rating and Certification Corporation (SRCC) Document OG-300-93, Operating Guidelines and Minimum Standards for Certifying Solar Water Heating Systems: An Optional SWH System Certification and Rating Program. Section 10 of the SRCC standard has been omitted because it was considered proprietary, since it describes an administrative program specifically carried out by SRCC.
(2) This standard has been approved by the Director of the Federal Register for incorporation by reference. The standard is available from the Solar Rating and Certification Corporation, 777 North Capitol Street, NE., suite 805, Washington, DC 20002. This standard is also available for inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
(b) Labeling. Under the procedures set forth in § 200.935(d)(6) concerning labeling of a product, the administrator’s validation mark and the manufacturer’s certification of compliance with the applicable standards are required to be on the certification label issued by the administrator to the manufacturer. Each solar water heating system shall be marked as conforming to UM 100. The label shall include the manufacturer’s name and plant location.
(c) Periodic tests and quality assurance inspection. Under the procedure set forth in § 200.935(d)(8), testing and inspection shall be conducted as follows:
(1) The Administrator shall visit the manufacturer’s factory every two years to assure that the initially accepted quality assurance procedures are being followed.
(2) At least every four years, the administrator shall visit the manufacturer’s facility to select a sample of each certified solar water heating system for testing by a laboratory approved by the administrator.
(d) Warranty. The manufacturer shall provide, at no cost, a full five-year warranty against defects in material or workmanship, on the absorber plate, cooling passages, and the collector (excluding any glass), running from the date of installation of the solar water heating system. The warranty also shall include the full costs of field inspection, parts, and labor required to remedy the defects, and will include the cost of replacement at the site if required. This warranty is not required to cover defects resulting from exposure to harmful materials, fire, flood, lightning, hurricane, tornado, hailstorms, earthquakes, or other acts of God, vandalism, explosions, harmful chemicals or other fluids, fumes or vapors. This exclusion will apply to the operation of the collector under excessive pressures or excessive flow rates, misuse, abuse, negligence, accidents, alterations, falling objects or other causes beyond the control of the manufacturer. Following the initial five years, the manufacturer shall provide a limited no-cost five-year warranty for collector parts on a prorata allowance basis.
§ 200.952 Supplementary specific requirements under the HUD building product standards and certification program for particleboard interior stair treads.
(a) Applicable standards. (1) All interior particleboard stair treads shall be designed, manufactured, and tested in compliance with ANSI A208.1-1993 Particleboard, Grade M-3.
(2) This standard has been approved by the Director of the Federal Register for incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51, and is available from the American National Standards Institute, Inc., 11 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036.
(b) Labeling. Under the procedures set forth in § 200.935(d)(6) concerning labeling of a product, the administrator’s validation mark and the manufacturer’s certification of compliance with the applicable standard are required to be on the certification label issued by the administrator to the manufacturer. Each interior particleboard stair tread shall include the manufacturer’s statement of conformance to UM 70b, a statement that this product is for interior use only, and the manufacturer’s name and plant location.
(c) Periodic tests and quality assurance. Under the procedures set forth in § 200.935(d)(8) concerning periodic tests and quality assurance inspections, the frequency of testing for a product shall be described in the specific building product certification program. In the case of interior particleboard stair treads, testing and inspection shall be conducted as follows:
(1) At least once every three months, the administrator shall visit the manufacturer’s facility to select a sample for testing in a laboratory approved by the administrator.
(2) The administrator shall also review the quality assurance procedures twice a year to assure that they are being followed by the manufacturer.
§ 200.954 Supplementary specific requirements under the HUD building product standard and certification program for construction adhesives for wood floor systems.
(a) Applicable standards. (1) All construction adhesives for field glued wood floor systems shall be designed, manufactured, and tested in compliance with the following American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standard: D 3498-93 Standard Specification for Adhesives for Field-Gluing Plywood to Lumber Framing for Floor Systems except that the mold and bacteria resistance tests shall not be included.
(2) This standard has been approved by the Director of the Federal Register for incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51, and is available from the American Society for Testing & Materials Inc., 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA. 19428.
(b) Labeling. Under the procedures set forth in § 200.935(d)(6) concerning labeling of a product, the administrator’s validation mark and the manufacturer’s certification of compliance with the applicable standard are required to be on the certification label issued by the administrator to the manufacturer. Each container shall be marked as being in compliance with UM 60a. The label shall also include the manufacturer’s name, plant location, and shelf life.
(c) Periodic tests and quality assurance. Under the procedures set forth in § 200.935(d)(8) concerning periodic tests and quality assurance inspections, the frequency of testing for a product shall be described in the specific building product certification program. In the case of construction adhesives for field glued wood floor systems, testing and inspection shall be conducted as follows:
(1) At least every six months, the administrator shall visit the manufacturer’s facility to select a sample for testing in a laboratory approved by the administrator.
(2) The administrator shall also review the quality assurance procedures twice a year to assure that they are being followed by the manufacturer.
§ 200.955 Supplementary specific requirements under the HUD building product standard and certification program for fenestration products (windows and doors).
(a) Applicable standards. (1) All windows and doors shall be designed, manufactured, and tested in compliance with American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) standard, AAMA/NWWDA 101/I.S.2-97 Voluntary Specifications for Aluminum, Vinyl (PVC) and Wood Windows and Glass Doors.
(2) This standard has been approved by the Director of the Federal Register for incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51, and is available from the American Architectural Manufacturers Association, 1827 Walden Office Square, Suite 104, Schaumburg, IL 60173.
(b) Labeling. Under the procedures set forth in § 200.935(d)(6) concerning labeling of a product, the administrator’s validation mark and the manufacturer’s certification of compliance with the applicable standards are required to be on the certification label issued by the administrator to the manufacturer. Each window or glass door shall include the manufacturer’s name, plant location, and statement of compliance with UM 111.
(c) Periodic tests and quality assurance inspections. Under the procedures set forth in § 200.935(d)(8) concerning periodic tests and quality assurance inspections, the frequency of testing for a product shall be described in the specific building product certification program. In the case of windows and glass doors, testing and inspection shall be conducted as follows:
(1) At least once every four years, the administrator shall visit the manufacturer’s facility to select a commercial sample for testing in a laboratory approved by the administrator.
(2) The administrator shall also review the quality assurance procedures twice a year to assure that they are being followed by the manufacturer.
Subpart T – Social Security Numbers and Employer Identification Numbers; Assistance Applicants and Participants
§ 200.1001 Cross-reference.
The provisions in subpart B of part 5 of this title apply to Social Security Numbers and Employer Identification Numbers for assistance applicants and participants.
Subpart U – Social Security Numbers and Employer Identification Numbers; Applicants in Unassisted Programs
§ 200.1101 Cross-reference.
The provisions in subpart B of part 5 of this title apply to Social Security Numbers and Employer Identification Numbers for applicants in unassisted programs.
Subpart V – Income Information; Assistance Applicants and Participants
§ 200.1201 Cross-reference.
The provisions in subpart B of part 5 of this title apply to income information for assistance applicants and participants.
Subpart W – Administrative Matters
§ 200.1301 Expiring programs – Savings clause.
(a) No new loan assistance, additional participation, or new loans are being insured under the programs listed in this section. Existing loan assistance, ongoing participation, or insured loans under the programs shall continue to be governed by regulations in effect as described in this section.
(b) Any existing loan assistance, ongoing participation, or insured loans under the programs listed in this paragraph will continue to be governed by the regulations in effect as they existed immediately before October 11, 1995 (24 CFR parts 205, 209, 224-228, 240, 277, 278, 1994 edition):
(1) Part 205, Mortgage Insurance for Land Development (Title X of the National Housing Act, repealed by section 133(a) of the Department of Housing and Urban Development Reform Act of 1989 (Public Law 101-235, approved December 15, 1989).
(2) Part 209, Individual Homes; War Housing Mortgage Insurance (12 U.S.C. 1736-1743).
(3) Part 224, Armed Services Housing-Military Personnel (12 U.S.C. 1736-1746a).
(4) Part 225, Military Housing Insurance (12 U.S.C. 1748b).
(5) Part 226, Armed Services Housing-Civilian Employees (12 U.S.C. 1748h-1).
(6) Part 227, Armed Services Housing-Impacted Areas (12 U.S.C. 1478h-2).
(7) Part 228, Individual Residences; National Defense Housing Mortgage Insurance (12 U.S.C. 1750 as amended by 42 U.S.C. 1591c).
(8) Part 240, Mortgage Insurance on Loans for Fee Title Purchase (12 U.S.C. 1715z-5).
(9) Part 277, Loans for Housing for the Elderly or Handicapped (12 U.S.C. 1701q).
(10) Part 278, Mandatory Meals Program in Multifamily Rental or Cooperative Projects for the Elderly or Handicapped (12 U.S.C. 1701q).
(c) Any existing loan assistance, ongoing participation, or insured loans under the programs listed in this paragraph will continue to be governed by the regulations in effect as they existed immediately before May 11, 1996 (24 CFR parts 215, 222, and 237, 1995 edition):
(1) Part 215, Rent Supplement Payments Program (12 U.S.C. 1715f).
(2) Part 222, Service Person’s Mortgage Insurance Program (12 U.S.C. 1715m).
(3) Part 237, Special Mortgage Insurance for Low and Moderate Income Families (12 U.S.C. 1715z-2).
(d) Any existing loan assistance, ongoing participation, or insured loans under the program listed in this paragraph will continue to be governed by the regulations in effect as they existed immediately before December 26, 1996 (24 CFR part 233, 1995 edition):
(1) Part 233, Experimental Housing Mortgage Insurance Program (12 U.S.C. 1715x).
(2) [Reserved]
(e) Any existing loan assistance, ongoing participation, or insured loans under the program listed in this paragraph will continue to be governed by the regulations in effect as they existed immediately before August 15, 2014 (24 CFR part 257):
(1) Part 257, HOPE for Homeowners Program (12 U.S.C. 1701z-22).
(2) [Reserved]
(f) No new emergency mortgage assistance, emergency mortgage relief loans, advances of credit or emergency mortgage relief payments, or any other type of assistance permitted under the Emergency Housing Act of 1975, title I of the Emergency Homeowners’ Relief Act (12 U.S.C. 2701), as amended by section 1496 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (Pub. L. 111-203) is being provided under the programs listed below. Any existing emergency assistance, emergency mortgage relief loans, advances of credit or emergency mortgage relief payments under these programs will continue to be governed by the regulations in effect as they existed immediately before September 8, 2014 (24 CFR part 2700):
(1) Part 2700, Emergency Homeowners’ Loan Program (12 U.S.C. 2701 et seq.)
(2) [Reserved]
(g) Any existing loan assistance (including recapture of loan assistance), ongoing participation, or insured loans under the program listed in this paragraph will continue to be governed by the regulations in effect as they existed immediately before May 4, 2015 (24 CFR part 235, 2014 Edition):
(1) Part 235, Mortgage Insurance and Assistance Payments for Home Ownership and Project Rehabilitation (12 U.S.C. 1715z).
(2) [Reserved]
(h) Any existing loan assistance (including recapture of loan assistance), ongoing participation, or insured loans under the program listed in this paragraph will continue to be governed by the regulations in effect as they existed immediately before February 10, 2016 (24 CFR part 280, 2015 Edition):
(1) Part 280, Mortgage Insurance and Assistance Payments for Home Ownership and Project Rehabilitation (12 U.S.C. 17151).
(2) [Reserved]
§ 200.1303 Annual income exclusions for the Rent Supplement Program.
(a) The exclusions to annual income described in 24 CFR 5.609(c) apply to those rent supplement contracts governed by the regulations at 24 CFR part 215 in effect immediately before May 1, 1996 (contained in the April 1, 1995 edition of 24 CFR, parts 200 to 219), in lieu of the annual income exclusions described in 24 CFR 215.21(c) (contained in the April 1, 1995 edition of 24 CFR, parts 200 to 219).
(b) The mandatory deductions described in 24 CFR 5.611(a) also apply to the rent supplement contracts described in paragraph (a) of this section in lieu of the deductions provided in the definition of “adjusted income” in 24 CFR 215.1 (as contained in the April 1, 1995 edition of 24 CFR, parts 200 to 219).
(c) The definition of “persons with disabilities” in paragraph (c) of this section replaces the terms “disabled person” and “handicapped person” used in the regulations in 24 CFR part 215, subpart A (as contained in the April 1, 1995 edition of 24 CFR, parts 200 to 219). Person with disabilities, as used in this part, has the same meaning as provided in 24 CFR 891.305.
Subpart Y – Multifamily Accelerated Processing (MAP): MAP Lender Quality Assurance Enforcement
§ 200.1500 Sanctions against a MAP lender.
(a) In addition to any other legal remedy available to HUD, HUD may take the following actions with respect to a MAP lender:
(1) Warning letter;
(2) Probation;
(3) Suspension;
(4) Termination;
(5) Limited Denial of Participation (LDP);
(6) Referral to the Mortgagee Review Board; and
(7) Referral to the Office of Inspector General.
(b) The actions listed in paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)(4) of this section are carried out in accordance with the requirements of this subpart. An LDP is a sanction applied in accordance with subpart J of 2 CFR part 2424 to participants in loan transactions other than FHA-insured lenders. The Mortgagee Review Board procedures are found at 24 CFR part 25.
§ 200.1505 Warning letter.
(a) In general. HUD may issue a warning letter, which specifies problems or violations identified by HUD, to a MAP lender.
(b) Effect of warning letter. The warning letter:
(1) Does not suspend a lender’s MAP privileges;
(2) May impose a higher level of review of the lender’s underwriting by HUD;
(3) May direct the taking of a corrective action; and
(4) May require a meeting in a designated HUD office with the principal owners or officers, or both, of the MAP lender to discuss the specified problems and violations, and possible corrective actions.
(c) Relationship to other sanctions. The issuance of a warning letter is not subject to the MAP Lender Review Board procedures in accordance with § 200.1535, and is not a prerequisite to the probation, or suspension, or termination of MAP privileges.
§ 200.1510 Probation.
(a) In general. Only the MAP Lender Review Board (or Board) may place a lender on probation, in accordance with the procedures of § 200.1535.
(b) Effect of probation. (1) Probation is intended to be corrective in nature and not punitive. As a result, release from probation is conditioned upon the lender meeting a specific requirement or requirements, such as replacement of a staff member. A lender’s failure to take prompt corrective action after being placed on probation may be the basis for a recommendation of either suspension or termination. Any such recommendation shall, when possible, go to a MAP Lender Review Board composed of the same members who issued the original probation.
(2) During the probation period, a MAP lender:
(i) Shall be removed from the MAP-Approved Lender list posted on HUD’s website;
(ii) May not submit, and HUD may not accept, materials after the close of business of the date of the probation letter for a new application under MAP for multifamily mortgage insurance from HUD; and
(iii) May continue to process any existing application for multifamily mortgage insurance submitted to a Multifamily Hub or Program Center before the date of the probation letter.
(3) The MAP Lender Review Board may impose a higher level of review of the lender’s underwriting by HUD;
(4) Probation is nationwide in effect.
(c) Duration of probation. (1) Probation continues until all specific corrective actions required by the MAP Lender Review Board (for example, exclusion of a specific staff member from work on MAP loans) are taken by the MAP lender. When all corrective actions have been taken, the MAP lender shall notify the Board. Once the Board is satisfied that the corrective actions have occurred, the probation period shall end.
(2) A false statement that corrective action has been taken constitutes a false certification and may constitute a violation of 18 US.C. 1001.
(3) When probation is lifted, the lender’s name shall be promptly reinstated on the MAP-Approved Lender list posted on HUD’s Web site.
§ 200.1515 Suspension of MAP privileges.
(a) In general. Only the MAP Lender Review Board may suspend a lender’s eligibility for MAP, in accordance with the procedures of § 200.1535.
(b) Effect of suspension. (1) A suspension may impose any conditions that may be imposed by probation.
(2) During the suspension period a MAP lender:
(i) Shall be removed from the MAP-approved lender list posted on HUD’s Web site;
(ii) May not submit, and the HUD field office may not accept, materials after the close of business of the date of the suspension letter for a new application for multifamily mortgage insurance from HUD; and
(iii) May continue to process any existing application for multifamily mortgage insurance submitted to a Multifamily Hub or Program Center before the date of the suspension letter.
(3) The MAP Lender Review Board may impose a higher level of review of the lender’s underwriting by HUD;
(4) Suspension is nationwide in effect.
(c) Duration of suspension. (1) Suspension may not exceed 12 months, except where conditions are imposed. If both a time period and conditions are imposed, a suspension shall terminate only when:
(i) The time period of the suspension has expired;
(ii) The MAP lender has submitted a certification of compliance with those conditions to the Board; and
(iii) The Board has notified the MAP lender it has received the certification of compliance and is satisfied that the corrective actions have occurred.
(2) When suspension is lifted, the lender’s name shall be promptly reinstated on the MAP-Approved Lender list posted on HUD’s Web site.
§ 200.1520 Termination of MAP privileges.
(a) In general. Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, only the MAP Lender Review Board may terminate a lender’s MAP privileges, in accordance with the procedures of § 200.1535.
(b) Administrative termination. HUD will notify a lender of immediate termination of MAP privileges when either of the following circumstances is present:
(1) Failure by the MAP lender to maintain its status as an FHA-approved lender; or
(2) Failure by the MAP lender to maintain a minimum level of MAP lender activity, as evidenced by failure to submit either a pre-application package or firm commitment application at least once every 12 months.
(c) Effect of termination. (1) The terminated lender shall be removed from the MAP-Approved Lender list on HUD’s Web site.
(2) A terminated lender may not submit, and the HUD field office may not accept, materials after the close of business of the date of the termination letter for new multifamily mortgage insurance from HUD.
(3) Any MAP pre-application or MAP application in process may no longer be processed under MAP by the terminated lender. The lender will either:
(i) Immediately transfer the transaction to the traditional application processing (TAP) procedure. HUD will completely reprocess all stages of the transaction; or
(ii) Immediately transfer the project to a new MAP lender. The new MAP lender must completely reprocess all stages of the transaction. At no time can the new MAP lender assign the pre-application, the firm application, the mortgage insurance commitment, or the insured construction loan back to the original MAP lender.
(4) HUD will not endorse any MAP loan processed by the terminated lender unless a firm commitment was issued before the date of termination.
(i) Firm commitments involving new construction or substantial rehabilitation must be immediately transferred to a new MAP lender. At no time can the new MAP lender assign the firm mortgage insurance commitment, or the insured construction loan, back to the original MAP lender.
(ii) Firm commitments issued for Section 223(f) projects may be transferred before final endorsement to any approved FHA lender or kept in the lender’s portfolio.
(iii) For those construction loans that have been initially endorsed, the MAP lender will lose its MAP privileges for construction loan administration. HUD will assume all the construction loan administration duties it normally performs for TAP processing.
(iv) The original lender may service a transferred loan once it is finally endorsed.
(5) Termination is nationwide in effect.
(6) When a MAP lender loses its MAP lender status as a result of termination, the lender’s status to process transactions using TAP is unaffected, provided that the lender has maintained its status as an FHA-approved multifamily lender.
(d) Reinstatement. An application for reinstatement of MAP authority may not be made until at least 12 months after the date of termination. The requirements for reinstatement shall be the same as for initial qualification, and the applicant must show that the problems that led to termination have been resolved.
§ 200.1525 Settlement agreements.
(a) HUD staff, as authorized, may negotiate a settlement agreement with a MAP lender before or after the issuance of a warning letter or referral to the MAP Lender Review Board. Once a matter has been referred to the MAP Lender Review Board, only the Board may approve a settlement agreement.
(b) Settlement agreements may provide for:
(1) Cessation of any violation;
(2) Correction or mitigation of the effects of any violation;
(3) Removal of lender staff from positions involving origination, underwriting, and/or construction loan administration;
(4) Actions to collect sums of money wrongfully or incorrectly paid by the MAP lender to a third party;
(5) Implementation or revision of a quality control plan or other corrective measure acceptable to HUD; and
(6) Modification of the duration or provisions of any administrative sanction deemed to be appropriate by HUD.
(c) A MAP lender’s compliance with a settlement agreement is evidenced by the lender certifying its compliance with the conditions of the agreement, and HUD’s determination that the lender is in compliance with the conditions of the agreement.
(d) Failure by a MAP lender to comply with a settlement agreement may result in a probation, or suspension, or termination of MAP privileges, or referral to the Mortgagee Review Board.
§ 200.1530 Bases for sanctioning a MAP lender.
It is HUD policy that approved MAP lenders are expected to comply at all times with HUD’s underwriting and construction loan administration requirements and not to take any action that presents a risk to HUD’s insurance funds. A MAP lender’s improper underwriting and construction loan administration activities may lead to a warning letter or other sanction from HUD. Examples of such activities include, but are not limited to, the following:
(a) Minor offenses that may be the basis for a warning letter include:
(1) Failure to provide required exhibits or the submission of incomplete or inaccurate exhibits. Although the MAP lender will be permitted to correct minor errors or provide additional information, substantial inaccuracies or lack of significant information will result in a return of the application and retention of any fee collected;
(2) Repeated failure to complete processing to firm commitment unrelated to an underwriting analysis that demonstrates that the process should not proceed to firm commitment;
(3) Preparation of an underwriting summary that is not supported by the appropriate documentation and analysis;
(4) Failure to notify the HUD processing office promptly of changes in the mortgage loan application for a firm commitment submitted, such as changes in rents, numbers of units, or gross project area;
(5) Failure to meet MAP closing requirements or construction loan administration requirements;
(6) Business practices that do not conform to those generally accepted by prudent lenders or that show irresponsibility; and
(7) Failure to cooperate with a Lender Qualifications and Monitoring Division review by HUD.
(b) Serious offenses that might be a basis for a warning letter or probation, suspension, or termination include:
(1) Receipt of multiple warning letters over any one-year period. In determining which sanction to pursue as a result of prior warning letters, HUD will consider the facts and circumstances surrounding those warning letters and the corrective actions, if any, undertaken by the lender;
(2) Fraud or material misrepresentation in the lender’s participation in FHA multifamily programs;
(3) Lender collusion with, or influence upon, third party contractors to modify reports affecting the contractor’s independent evaluation;
(4) A violation of MAP procedures by a third party contractor, which the MAP lender knew, or should have known, was occurring and which, if performed by the MAP lender itself, would constitute a ground for a sanction under this chapter;
(5) Evidence that a lender’s inadequate or inaccurate underwriting was a cause for assignment of an FHA-insured mortgage and claim for insurance benefits to HUD;
(6) Identity-of-interest violations as defined by Chapter 2 of the MAP Guide;
(7) Payment by, or receipt of a payment by, a MAP lender of any kickback or other consideration, directly or indirectly, which would affect the lender’s independent evaluation, or represent a conflict of interest, in connection with any FHA-insured mortgage transaction;
(8) Failure to comply with any agreement, certification, undertaking, or condition of approval listed in a MAP lender’s application for approval;
(9) Noncompliance with any requirement or directive of the MAP Lender Review Board;
(10) Violation of the requirements of any contract with HUD, or violation of the requirements in any statute or regulation;
(11) Submission of false information, or a false certification, to HUD in connection with any MAP mortgage transaction;
(12) Failure of a MAP lender to respond in a timely manner to inquiries from the MAP Lender Review Board in accordance with this subpart;
(13) Indictment or conviction of a MAP lender or any of its officers, directors, principals, or employees for an offense that reflects on the responsibility, integrity, or ability of the lender to participate in the MAP initiative;
(14) Employing or retaining an officer, partner, director, or principal at the time when the person was suspended, debarred, ineligible, or subject to an LDP under 2 CFR part 2424, or otherwise prohibited from participation in HUD programs, when the MAP lender knew or should have known of the prohibition;
(15) Employing or retaining an employee who is not an officer, partner, director, or principal, and who is or will be working on HUD-FHA program matters, at a time when that person was suspended, debarred, ineligible, or subject to an LDP under 2 CFR part 2424, or otherwise prohibited from participation in HUD programs, when the MAP lender knew or should have known of the prohibition;
(16) Failure to cooperate with an audit or investigation by the HUD Office of Inspector General or an inquiry by HUD into the conduct of the MAP lender’s FHA-insured loans; and
(17) Failure to fund MAP mortgage loans or any misuse of mortgage loan proceeds.
§ 200.1535 MAP Lender Review Board.
(a) Authority – (1) Sanctions. The MAP Lender Review Board (or Board) is authorized to impose appropriate sanctions on a MAP lender after:
(i) Conducting an impartial review of all information and documentation submitted to the Board; and
(ii) Making factual determinations that there has been a violation of MAP requirements.
(2) Settlement agreements. The Board is authorized to approve settlement agreements in accordance with § 200.1525 of any matter pending before the Board.
(3) Extensions. The Board is authorized to extend, on its own initiative or for good cause at the written request of a MAP lender, any time limit otherwise applicable under this section. Notice of any such extension shall be timely provided to a MAP lender.
(b) Notice of violation. Before the Board reviews a matter for consideration of a sanction, the Board’s Chairman will issue written notice of violation to the MAP lender’s contact person as listed on the Multifamily MAP Web site. The notice is sent by overnight delivery and must be signed for by an employee of the MAP lender upon receipt. The notice:
(1) Informs the lender that the Board is considering a specific violation;
(2) States the specific facts alleged concerning the violation, with citation to the HUD requirements that have been violated;
(3) Includes as attachments copies of all documents evidencing the violation and upon which the Board will rely in reaching a decision;
(4) Provides the lender with the opportunity to request in writing, within 15 business days after the date of the issuance of the notice, to:
(i) Meet for an informal conference with the Board in person or by video conference using HUD facilities at Headquarters or one of HUD’s field offices; and
(ii) Present written evidence and any other relevant information at the conference;
(5) Requires a written response to be submitted to the Board by a date specified within the notice;
(6) Provides the street address, email address, or facsimile (FAX) number for purposes of receiving the lender’s request for an informal conference and written response; and
(7) Is made part of the administrative record of the Board’s decision of the matter.
(c) Response to notice. (1) The MAP lender’s written response required by the notice of violation may not exceed 15 double-spaced typewritten pages and must include an executive summary, a statement of the facts, an argument, and a conclusion. The response and supporting documentation must be submitted in triplicate.
(2) Failure to respond by the dates specified within the notice may result in a determination by the Board without conducting an informal conference with the MAP lender and without consideration of any written response submitted by the MAP lender.
(d) Informal conference. (1) The Board will schedule an informal conference and notify the lender of the time and place of the conference, if one is requested.
(2) At the conference, the Board will meet with the lender or its designees and HUD staff to review documentary evidence and presentations by both sides.
(3) Oral statements made at the informal meeting will not be considered as part of the administrative record of the Board’s determination, except:
(i) The Board may note for the record and consider voluntary admissions, made by the lender or a representative of the lender, of any element of the violation charged;
(ii) Statements substantiated by any additional documents or evidence submitted in accordance with paragraphs (e)(1) or (e)(3) of this section; and
(iii) Transcripts prepared and submitted in accordance with paragraph (e)(2) of this section.
(e) Post-conference submissions. (1) Any additional documents, evidence, or written arguments relevant to the notice of violation and the informal conference that the lender or HUD staff wish to present to the Board, must be presented within five business days after date of the informal conference.
(2) No transcript of the informal conference will be made, unless the lender elects to have a transcript made by a certified court reporter at its own expense. If the lender elects to have a transcript made, the lender must provide three copies of the transcript to HUD within five business days after the date of the informal conference. The transcript will not become a part of the administrative record of the Board’s decision unless it is submitted within the required five-day period frame.
(3) Following the receipt of any post-conference submissions, the Board may request or permit additional documents or evidence to be submitted within a period set by the Board for inclusion in the administrative record.
(f) Board action. (1) The Board will confer to consider the evidence included in the administrative record and make a final decision concerning the matter. Any record of confidential communications between and among Board members at this stage of the proceedings is privileged from disclosure and will not be regarded as a part of the administrative record of any matter.
(2) In determining what action is appropriate concerning the matter, the Board considers, among other factors:
(i) The seriousness and the extent of the violation;
(ii) Any history of prior offenses;
(iii) Deterrence of future violations;
(iv) Any inappropriate benefits received by the MAP lender;
(v) Potential inappropriate benefit to other persons; and
(vi) Any mitigating factors.
(3) Board decisions will be determined by majority vote.
(g) Notice of action. (1) The Board will issue its final decision within 10 business days after the date of the informal conference or the expiration of any period allowed for the submission of documents and evidence, whichever is later.
(2) The Board will notify the MAP lender of its final decision by overnight delivery of a written notice of the final decision to the MAP lender’s contact person as listed on the Multifamily MAP Web site. The Board will also notify HUD field offices of its final decision.
(3) The final decision finds that a violation either does, or does not, exist. If a violation is found to exist, the final decision:
(i) States the violation and any factual findings of the Board;
(ii) States the nature and duration of the sanction;
(iii) Informs the MAP lender of its right to an appeal conference and identifies the appeals official to be contacted; and
(iv) May add to or modify the violation as stated in the initial notice of violation.
§ 200.1540 Imminent harm notice of action.
The Board may issue an imminent harm notice of action to terminate a MAP lender, or to place a MAP lender on probation or suspension without advance notice to the MAP lender in those instances where the Board determines there exists a need to protect the financial interest of HUD from imminent harm. In all such instances, the Board shall notify the lender of the Board’s decision promptly and give the reasons for the decision in accordance with § 200.1535(g)(2) and (3). The lender shall have the right to submit materials to the Board and to appear before the Board to seek prompt reconsideration of the Board’s decision in accordance with the procedures of § 200.1535.
§ 200.1545 Appeals of MAP Lender Review Board decisions.
(a) Request for appeal. Whenever the Board imposes a sanction of probation, suspension, or termination against a MAP lender, the lender may request, in writing, an appeal conference before the appeals official. The MAP lender must deliver the written request for an appeal to the appeals official within 10 business days after the date noted on the notice of action or the right to an appeal is deemed waived. Participation in the appeal process under this section is not a prerequisite to filing an action for judicial review under the Administrative Procedure Act.
(b) Appeals Official. The appeals official must be an individual who has not been previously involved with the proceedings or settlement discussions at issue.
(c) Notice of action in effect. The notice of action issued by the Board remains in effect while the appeal is pending.
(d) Scheduling of appeal. (1) Upon receipt of the request for an appeal, the appeals official will promptly notify the MAP lender of the time and place of the appeal conference. The appeal conference will be held within 10 business days after receipt of the MAP lender’s appeal request, except as provided in paragraph (d)(2) of this section.
(2) A MAP lender may request, and the appeals official may agree, to have an appeal conference held more than 10, but not more than 30 business days after the date of the lender’s request for an appeal.
(e) Scope of appeal. The appeals official may consider information included in the administrative record and any new information presented at the appeal conference that is substantiated in accordance with paragraph (f) of this section. In addition, the appeals official may consider voluntary admissions by the lender or a representative of the lender of any element of the violation charged.
(f) Additional documents – (1) Transcript. No transcript of the appeal conference will be made, unless the MAP lender elects to have a transcript made by a certified court reporter at its own expense. If the lender elects to have a transcript made, it must provide three copies of the transcript to the appeals official within five business days after the date of the appeal conference.
(2) Other documents. Any additional, relevant documents or written arguments that the MAP lender wishes to present to the appeals official must be presented within five business days after the date of the appeal conference.
(g) Determination of appeal. Within 10 business days after the date of the appeal conference or the expiration of the period allowed for the submission of documents and written arguments, whichever is later, the appeals official will make a written determination to confirm, modify, or overturn the Board’s decision and notice of action. If the appeals official overturns the Board’s decision, the lender shall immediately return to an active status as a MAP lender and the written determination to overturn will be posted on HUD’s MAP Web site.
Appendix A to Part 200 – Standards Incorporated by Reference in the Minimum Property Standards for Housing (HUD Handbook 4910.1)
The following publications are incorporated by reference in the HUD Minimum Property Standards (MPS) in 24 CFR part 200. The MPS are available for public inspection and can be obtained for appropriate use at 490 L’Enfant Plaza East, Suite 3214, or at each HUD Regional, Area, and Service Office. Copies are available for inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html. The individual standards referenced in the MPS are available at the address contained in the following table. They are also available for public inspection at the HUD, Manufactured Housing and Construction Standards Division, Suite 3214, 490 L’Enfant Plaza East, Washington, DC 20024.
Commercial Standards:
Federal Specifications:
Handbooks:
Use of Materials Bulletins:
SUBCHAPTER B – MORTGAGE AND LOAN INSURANCE PROGRAMS UNDER NATIONAL HOUSING ACT AND OTHER AUTHORITIES
PART 201 – TITLE I PROPERTY IMPROVEMENT AND MANUFACTURED HOME LOANS
Subpart A – General
§ 201.1 Purpose.
These regulations implement the provisions of section 2 of title I of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1703). They contain the requirements under which an approved financial institution may obtain insurance on loans made for the alteration, repair or improvement of property, for the purchase of a manufactured home and/or the lot on which to place such home, for the purchase and installation of fire safety equipment in existing health care facilities, and for the preservation of historic structures. The insurance granted by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall be available only for loans involving property located within a State, as that term is defined in § 201.2. The insurance can cover up to 10 percent of the amount of all insured Title I loans in the financial institution’s portfolio, as reflected in the total amount of insurance coverage contained at any time in an insurance coverage reserve account established by the Secretary, less amounts for insurance claims paid. As limited by the amount of insurance coverage in such a reserve account, the insurance can cover up to 90 percent of the loss of any individual loan.
§ 201.2 Definitions.
As used in the regulations in this part the term:
Act means the National Housing Act, 12 U.S.C. 1703.
Actuarial method means the method of allocating payments made on a loan between the outstanding balance of the principal amount borrowed and the interest due on a loan obligation, under which a payment is applied first to the accrued interest, and any remainder is subtracted from, or any deficiency is added to, the unpaid balance of the obligation.
Borrower means one who applies for and receives a loan insured under this part. The term may also include any co-maker or co-signer or any assumptor who is obligated for the repayment of a loan obligation insured under this part.
Combination loan means a loan made for the purchase or refinancing in a single transaction of a manufactured home and a manufactured home lot, and may also include a garage, patio, carport, or other comparable appurtenance.
Dealer means, in the case of property improvement loans, a seller, contractor, or supplier of goods or services. In the case of manufactured home loans, dealer means one who engages in the business of manufactured home retail sales.
Dealer loan means a loan where a dealer, having a direct or indirect financial interest in the transaction between the borrower and the lender, assists the borrower in preparing the credit application or otherwise assists the borrower in obtaining the loan from the lender. In the case of a property improvement loan, the lender may disburse the loan proceeds solely to the borrower, or jointly to the borrower and the dealer or other parties to the transaction. In the case of a manufactured home loan, the lender may disburse the loan proceeds solely to the dealer or the borrower, or jointly to the borrower and the dealer or other parties to the transaction.
Debtor means the borrower, any co-maker or co-signer, and any assumptor who is liable for the repayment of a defaulted loan obligation insured under this part.
Default means a failure by the borrower to make any payment due under the note, when such failure continues for a period of 30 days. For the purpose of these regulations, the “date of default” shall be considered as 30 days after the first failure to make an installment payment on the note which is not covered by subsequent payments, when applied to the overdue installments in the order in which they became due.
Direct loan means a loan for which a borrower makes application directly to a lender without any assistance from a dealer. The credit application, signed by the borrower, may be filled out by the borrower or by a person acting at the direction of the borrower who does not have a financial interest in the loan transaction. The lender may disburse the loan proceeds solely to the borrower or jointly to the borrower and other parties to the transaction. If a dealer takes legal action required by State law in order for the lender to obtain a valid and enforceable lien against the property, such action by the dealer will not convert an otherwise direct loan to a dealer loan.
Discount points means a fee charged by the lender, separate from interest but part of the total finance charges on the loan, that is part of the lender’s total yield on the loan needed to maintain a competitive position with other types of investments. One discount point equals one percent of the principal amount of the loan. As discount points on the loan increase, the interest rate can be expected to decrease in a fairly consistent relationship.
Existing structure means a dwelling, including a manufactured home, that was completed and occupied at least 90 days prior to an application for a Title I loan, or a nonresidential structure that was a completed building with a distinctive functional use prior to an application for a Title I loan. However, these occupancy and completion requirements shall not apply to:
(1) Loans having a principal obligation of $1000 or less; or
(2) Residential structures which have been damaged by conditions determined by the President to warrant relief under the provisions of title 42, chapter 68, of the United States Code.
Fire safety equipment loan means a loan made to finance the purchase and installation of any device or construction feature which is recognized in the latest edition of the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Minimum Property Standards for Care Type Housing (HUD Handbook 4920.1) or the Fire Safety Code of the National Fire Protection Association, and which is designed to reduce the risk of death, personal injury, or property damage resulting from a fire in a health care facility.
Furniture means movable articles of personal property relating to a home or dwelling, such as beds, chairs, sofas, lamps, tables, rugs, etc.; however, furniture does not include:
(1) Items built into the home or dwelling such as wall-to-wall carpeting or heating or cooling equipment; or
(2) Large appliances such as refrigerators, ovens, ranges, dishwashers, clothes washers or clothes dryers.
Health care facility means a proprietary facility or facility of a private nonprofit corporation or association, licensed or regulated by the State or by the municipality or other political subdivision in which the facility is located, and operated as one or more of the following:
(1) A nursing home for the accommodation of convalescents or other persons who are not acutely ill and not in need of hospital care, but who require skilled nursing care and related medical services performed under the general direction of persons licensed by the law of the State where the facility is located to provide such care or services;
(2) An intermediate health care facility for the accommodation of persons who, because of incapacitating infirmities, require minimum but continuous care, but not continuous medical care or nursing services;
(3) An extended health care facility for inpatient care for convalescents or chronic disease patients who require skilled nursing care and related medical services; or
(4) Other comparable health care facility.
Historic preservation loan means a loan to finance the preservation (restoration or rehabilitation) of an historic residential structure which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places or which is certified by the Secretary of the Interior as conforming with National Register criteria.
Lender means a financial institution that:
(1) Holds a valid Title I contract of insurance and is approved by the Secretary under 24 CFR part 202 to originate, purchase, hold, service, and/or sell loans insured under this part; or
(2) Is under suspension or holds a Title I contract of insurance that has been terminated, but that remains responsible for servicing or selling Title I loans that it holds and is authorized to file insurance claims on such loans.
Loan means a disbursement of proceeds (funds) or an advance of credit to or for the benefit of a borrower who promises to repay the principal amount of such disbursement or advance, plus interest, if any, at a stated annual rate over time, with the borrower’s obligation evidenced by the borrower’s execution of a note. Loan also means a purchase by a lender of a note evidencing such obligation, or a refinancing of an existing obligation with or without an additional disbursement of proceeds or advance of credit.
Manufacturer’s invoice means a document issued by a manufacturer and provided with a manufactured home to a retail dealer which separately details the wholesale (base) prices at the factory for specific models or series of manufactured homes and itemized options (large appliances, built-in items and equipment), plus actual itemized charges for freight from the factory to the dealer’s lot or the homesite (including any rental of wheels and axles) and for any sales taxes to be paid by the dealer. The invoice may recite such prices and charges on an itemized basis or by stating an aggregate price or charge, as appropriate, for each category. The manufacturer shall certify on the invoice, or on a supplement which is attached to and made a part of the invoice, as follows:
The undersigned certifies under applicable criminal and civil penalties for fraud and misrepresentation that: (1) The wholesale (base) prices for the manufactured home and itemized options, the charges for freight and dealer-paid sales taxes, and all other statements in this invoice are true and accurate; (2) all such prices reflect the actual dealer costs at the factory, as quoted in the applicable current manufacturer’s wholesale (base) price list; (3) except for any payments of volume incentives or special benefits related to this transaction, all such prices and charges exclude any costs of trade association fees or charges, discounts, bonuses, refunds, rebates, prizes, loan discount points or other financing charges, or anything else of more than nominal value which will inure to the benefit of the dealer and/or home purchaser at any date; and (4) the manufacturer has not made and will not make any payments to or for the benefit of the dealer and/or home purchaser that are not disclosed on this invoice or invoice supplement.
Manufactured home means a transportable structure, comprised of one or more modules, each built on a permanent chassis, with or without a permanent foundation, designed for occupancy as a principal residence by a single family. A new manufactured home shall comply with the minimum property standards prescribed by the Secretary to assure its livability and durability that are published as the Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards implementing the National Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974, 42 U.S.C. 5401-5426, at 24 CFR part 3280. To qualify for a manufactured home loan insured under this part, an existing manufactured home must have been constructed in accordance with standards published at 24 CFR part 3280 and must meet standards similar to the minimum property standards applicable to existing homes insured under title II of the Act, as prescribed by the Secretary.
Manufactured home improvement loan means a loan made to finance the alteration, repair or improvement of an existing manufactured home which is classified as personalty by the State or locality in which the property is located. The proceeds of a manufactured home improvement loan may also be used for improvements to the homesite, as long as the borrower is the owner of the home and the underlying real estate.
Manufactured home loan means a loan for the purchase or refinancing of a manufactured home and/or the lot on which to place such home. Unless otherwise indicated, the term includes manufactured home purchase loans, manufactured home lot loans, and combination loans.
Manufactured home lot loan means a loan for the purchase or refinancing of a portion of land acceptable to the Secretary as a manufactured home lot. A manufactured home lot may consist of platted or unplatted land, a lot in a recorded or unrecorded subdivision or in an improved area of such subdivision, or a lot in a planned unit development. A manufactured home lot may also consist of an interest in a manufactured home condominium project (including any interest in the common areas) or a share in a cooperative association which owns and operates a manufactured home park.
Manufactured home purchase loan means a loan for the purchase or refinancing of a manufactured home exclusive of any lot or site, and may also include a garage, patio, carport, or other comparable appurtenance.
Multifamily property improvement loan means a loan to finance the alteration, repair, improvement, or conversion of an existing structure used or to be used as an apartment house or a dwelling for two or more families. The multifamily structure may not be owned by a corporation, partnership, or trust, unless the prior approval of the Secretary is obtained for an exception to this requirement.
Nonresidential property improvement loan means a loan made to finance the construction of a new exclusively nonresidential structure or the alteration, repair or improvement of an existing structure that is nonresidential. Such a structure may be temporarily used for residential purposes while the borrower constructs a new dwelling to replace a dwelling previously occupied by the borrower that was destroyed or damaged by conditions determined by the President to warrant relief under the provisions of title 42, chapter 68, of the U.S.C., provided that the credit application is filed within one year from the date of such a determination.
Note means the written instrument evidencing the borrower’s signature to a promise to repay the principal indebtedness and to pay any interest due on a loan, whether the instrument is separate from or included within another document, and unless otherwise specified means also any security instrument with respect to that loan obligation.
Owner means a person, including a borrower, who has title in whole or in part to the property which is the subject of a loan transaction.
Principal residence means a home where the borrower expects to live at least nine months of the year.
Property improvement loan means a loan made to finance actions or items that substantially protect or improve the basic livability or utility of a property. Unless otherwise indicated, the term includes single family, multifamily and nonresidential property improvement loans; manufactured home improvement loans where the home is classified as personalty; historic preservation loans; and fire safety equipment loans in existing health care facilities.
Rehabilitation means the process of returning an historic residential structure to a state of utility, through repair or alteration, which makes possible an efficient contemporary use. In rehabilitation, those portions of the property important in illustrating historic, architectural and cultural values are preserved or restored.
Restoration means the process of accurately recovering the form and details of an historic residential structure as it appeared at a particular period of time by removing later work and by replacing missing original work.
Security instrument means a properly recorded chattel mortgage, real estate mortgage or deed of trust, or conditional sales contract.
Single family property improvement loan means a loan to finance alterations, repairs and improvements to or in connection with an existing structure used or to be used as a single family residence, including an existing one-family manufactured home that qualifies as real property in that the home is placed on a permanent foundation, the home and lot are classified as realty by the State or locality in which the property is located, and any loans on the property are secured by mortgages or deeds of trust covering the home and lot.
Solar energy system means any addition, alteration or improvement to an existing structure for single family or multifamily residential use which is designed to utilize wind or solar energy to reduce the energy requirements of that structure from other energy sources, and which complies with standards prescribed by the Secretary.
Special benefits means benefits other than volume incentives for dealers which a home manufacturer funds from general corporate revenues by charging them against corporate overhead and profit without changing the wholesale (base) price of a manufactured home (or series of homes), as reflected in the manufacturer’s published wholesale (base) price list, and which are limited to payments by the manufacturer directly to:
(1) A financial institution to buy down or reduce the interest rate, discount points, or other fees or charges related to a lending agreement for a dealer’s manufactured home inventory or floor plan financing needs; or
(2) One or more advertising media for all or part of the costs of advertising the manufacturer’s homes, one or more dealer’s services, and related manufactured home materials and products in such media.
State means any State of the United States, Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia, Guam, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, or the United States Virgin Islands.
Volume incentives means specified dollar benefits to dealers under a published marketing and promotional plan, payable by a home manufacturer in cash or in kind in amounts or levels relating to the volume of sales of manufactured homes to dealers, other than benefits of a nominal value of less than $10 per home, which:
(1) The manufacturer funds from general corporate revenues by including them in the prices quoted in the manufacturer’s wholesale (base) price list and charging them against corporate overhead and profit;
(2) Whether or not available on an optional basis, do not increase or decrease the wholesale (base) prices for the sale of a specific home or options or the charges for freight and dealer-paid sales taxes as detailed in the manufacturer’s invoice, for a specific sale to a retail dealer;
(3) The manufacturer provides without creating a special product line where the cost of the benefits is the only substantive difference between the special product line and other essentially similar homes;
(4) Whether or not also of benefit to the ultimate purchaser, do not increase or decrease the retail price of the home;
(5) Are available to any dealer in a particular market area doing business with the manufacturer;
(6) The manufacturer provides only for volume sales of manufactured homes to dealers over a specified period of time;
(7) The plan provides in escalating and different amounts or levels related to either the number of homes (or modules) sold or the dollar value of such sales to a dealer, or some combination of such elements, in a specified period of time;
(8) Are structured so that only some of the dealer participants are expected to be paid the maximum benefits under the program, with substantial numbers of participants expected to receive less than the maximum amount or level of benefits; and
(9) Accrue for volume sales to a dealer over a specified period of time which is at least quarterly in length, and are paid not more frequently than quarterly.
Wholesale (base) price list means the price list or lists, as periodically amended, which are published and distributed by a home manufacturer to all retail dealers in a given marketing area, quoting the actual wholesale (base) prices at the factory for specific models or series of manufactured homes and itemized options offered for sale to such dealers during a specified period of time. The wholesale (base) prices may include the manufacturer’s projected costs of providing volume incentives and special benefits related to sales to dealers during the period. All such wholesale (base) prices shall exclude any costs of trade association fees or charges, discounts, bonuses, refunds, rebates, prizes, loan discount points or other financing charges, or anything else of more than nominal value which will inure to the benefit of a dealer and/or home purchaser at any date. Each price list and amendment shall be retained by the manufacturer for a minimum period of six years from the date of publication so as to be available to HUD and other Federal agencies upon request.
§ 201.3 Applicability of the regulations.
The regulations in this part may be amended by the Secretary at any time. Such amendment shall not adversely affect the insurance privileges of a lender on any loan that has been made or for which a loan application has been approved before the effective date of the amendment.
§ 201.4 Rules of construction.
As used in this part, and unless the context indicates otherwise, words in the singular include the plural, and words in the plural include the singular.
§ 201.5 Waivers.
Waiver of lender’s noncompliance. The Secretary may waive a lender’s noncompliance with any provision of this part, subject to statutory limitations, when it is determined that enforcement of the regulations would impose an injustice upon a lender which has substantially complied with the regulations in good faith and refunded or credited any excess charge made, and when such waiver does not involve an increase in the Secretary’s obligation beyond that which would have been involved if the lender was in full compliance with the regulations.
§ 201.6 Disclosure and verification of Social Security and Employer Identification Numbers.
To be eligible for loan insurance under this part, the borrower must meet the requirements for the disclosure and verification of Social Security and Employer Identification Numbers, as provided by part 200, subpart U, of this chapter.
§ 201.7 Qualified mortgage.
(a) Qualified mortgage. A mortgage insured under section 2 of title I of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1703), except for mortgage transactions exempted under § 203.19(c)(2), is a safe harbor qualified mortgage that meets the ability to repay requirements in 15 U.S.C. 1639c(a).
(b) Effect of indemnification on qualified mortgage status. An indemnification demand or resolution of a demand that relates to whether the loan satisfied relevant eligibility and underwriting requirements at the time of consummation may result from facts that could allow a change to qualified mortgage status, but the existence of an indemnification does not per se remove qualified mortgage status.
Subpart B – Loan and Note Provisions
§ 201.10 Loan amounts.
(a) Property improvement loans. (1) The total principal obligation for a property improvement loan shall not exceed the actual cost of the project plus any applicable fees and charges authorized at § 201.25(b), up to the following maximum loan amounts:
(i) Single family property improvement loans – $25,000, except that a loan for a manufactured home that qualifies as real property shall be limited to $17,500.
(ii) Multifamily property improvement loans – $60,000 or an average of $12,000 per dwelling unit, whichever is less.
(iii) Nonresidential property improvement loans – $25,000.
(iv) Manufactured home improvement loans – $7,500.
(v) Historic preservation loans – the lesser of $15,000 per dwelling unit in a residential structure or $45,000 per residential structure.
(vi) Fire safety equipment loans – $50,000.
(2) No property improvement loan shall be approved where the total outstanding balance of all title I property improvement loans on the same property exceeds the maximum loan amount prescribed for that type of loan. If more than one type of property improvement loan is involved, the total outstanding balance of such loans on a particular property shall not exceed the maximum loan amount prescribed for the larger type of loan.
(b) Manufactured home purchase loans. (1) The total principal obligation for a loan to purchase a new manufactured home shall not exceed the sum of the following itemized amounts, up to a maximum of $48,600:
(i) 130 percent of the sum of the wholesale (base) prices of the home and any itemized options and the charge for freight, as detailed in the manufacturer’s invoice;
(ii) The charge for any sales taxes to be paid by the dealer, as detailed in the manufacturer’s invoice;
(iii) The actual dealer’s cost of transportation to the homesite, set-up and anchoring, including the rental of wheels and axles (if not included in the freight charges);
(iv) The actual dealer’s cost of skirting;
(v) The actual dealer’s cost of a garage, carport, patio or other comparable appurtenance to the manufactured home, as approved by the Secretary;
(vi) The actual dealer’s cost of purchasing and installing a central air conditioning system or heat pump, if not installed by the manufacturer; and
(vii) Any applicable charges authorized at § 201.25(b).
(2) The total principal obligation for a loan to purchase an existing manufactured home shall not exceed the lesser of the following amounts, up to a maximum of $48,600:
(i) 95 percent of the appraised value of the home as equipped and furnished (as determined by a HUD-approved appraisal) and 95 percent of any itemized amounts allowed under paragraphs (b)(1)(iii) through (vii) of this section, if incurred; or
(ii) 95 percent of the purchase price of the home.
(3) The purchase price of a manufactured home financed with a manufactured home purchase loan shall include the retail cost to the borrower of all items set forth in the purchase contract, including any applicable charges authorized under § 201.25(b).
(c) Manufactured home lot loans. The total principal obligation for a loan to purchase and, if necessary, develop a lot suitable for a manufactured home, including on-site water and utility connections, sanitary facilities, site improvements and landscaping, shall not exceed 95 percent of either the appraised value of the developed lot (as determined by a HUD-approved appraisal) or the total of the purchase price and development costs, whichever is less, up to a maximum of $16,200.
(d) Combination loans. (1) The total principal obligation for a loan to purchase a new manufactured home and a lot on which to place the home shall not exceed the sum of the following itemized amounts, up to a maximum of $64,800:
(i) 130 percent of the sum of the wholesale (base) prices of the home and any itemized options and the charge for freight, as detailed in the manufacturer’s invoice;
(ii) The charge for any sales taxes to be paid by the dealer, as detailed in the manufacturer’s invoice;
(iii) The actual dealer’s cost of transportation to the homesite, set-up and anchoring, including the rental of wheels and axles (if not included in the freight charge);
(iv) The actual dealer’s cost of purchasing and installing a central air conditioning system or heat pump, if not installed by the manufacturer;
(v) The appraised value of the developed manufactured home lot (as determined by a HUD-approved appraisal, including on-site water and utility connections, sanitary facilities, site improvements and landscaping) or the purchase price, whichever is less;
(vi) The actual dealer’s cost of appurtenances to the home such as a permanent foundation, garage, carport or patio; and
(vii) Any applicable charges authorized at § 201.25(b).
(2) The total principal obligation for a loan to purchase an existing manufactured home and lot shall not exceed the lesser of the following amounts, up to a maximum of $64,800:
(i) 95 percent of the total appraised value of the home, the lot, and any appurtenances (as determined by a HUD-approved appraisal), plus 95 percent of any applicable charges authorized at § 201.25(b); or
(ii) 95 percent of the purchase price of the home, the lot, and any appurtenances.
(3) The purchase price of a manufactured home and a lot financed with a combination loan shall include the retail cost to the borrower of all items set forth in the purchase contract or contracts, including any applicable charges authorized under § 201.25(b).
(e) Manufactured home loan limits in high-cost areas. (1) The maximum loan amounts otherwise applicable under paragraphs (b), (c) and (d) of this section may be increased by an amount not to exceed 40 percent where the manufactured home and/or lot is purchased and located in Alaska, Guam or Hawaii.
(2) The maximum loan amounts otherwise applicable under paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section may be increased for any geographical area except Alaska, Guam or Hawaii to the extent deemed necessary by the Secretary; however, any increased loan amount may not exceed the lesser of (i) 185 percent of the dollar amounts specified in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section; or (ii) the dollar amounts specified in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section, as increased by the same percentage by which 95 percent of the median 1-family house price in the area (as determined by the Secretary for purposes of § 203.18) exceeds $67,500.
(f) Loan refinancing. (1) The total principal obligation of a loan made to refinance a borrower’s existing insured property improvement loan shall not exceed the maximum loan amount permitted under this section for the particular type of loan, provided that any amount in excess of the cost to the borrower of prepaying the existing loan shall be made available only to finance additional property improvements meeting the requirements of this part.
(2) The total principal obligation of a loan made to refinance a borrower’s existing insured manufactured home loan shall not exceed the lesser of the cost to the borrower of prepaying the existing loan or the maximum loan amount permitted under this section for the particular type of loan.
(3) The total principal obligation of a loan made to refinance a borrower’s existing uninsured manufactured home loan shall not exceed the cost to the borrower of prepaying the existing loan or the appraised value of the property (as determined by a HUD-approved appraisal), whichever is less, up to the maximum loan amount permitted under this section for the particular type of loan.
(4) When a borrower’s existing manufactured home lot is being refinanced in connection with the purchase of a manufactured home, the total principal obligation of the combination loan shall be determined in accordance with paragraph (d)(1) or (d)(2) of this section.
(5) When a borrower’s existing manufactured home is being refinanced in connection with the purchase of a manufactured home lot, the total principal obligation of the combination loan shall not exceed the lesser of the following amounts, up to a maximum of $64,800:
(i) The cost to the borrower of prepaying any existing loan on the home, plus the purchase price of the lot; or
(ii) The appraised value of the home and lot (as determined by a HUD-approved appraisal).
(g) Minimum loan amount. A lender may not require, as a condition of providing a loan insured under this part, that the principal amount of the loan exceed a minimum amount established by the lender.
§ 201.11 Loan maturities.
(a) Property improvement loans. The term of a property improvement loan shall be not less than six months and not more than 20 years and 32 days from the date of the loan, except that:
(1) The maximum term for a single family property improvement loan on a manufactured home that qualifies as real property shall not exceed 15 years and 32 days from the date of the loan;
(2) The maximum term for a manufactured home improvement loan shall not exceed 12 years and 32 days from the date of the loan; and
(3) The maximum term for an historic preservation loan shall not exceed 15 years and 32 days from the date of the loan.
(b) Manufactured home loans. The term of a manufactured home loan shall be not less than six months and not more than 20 years and 32 days from the date of the loan, except that:
(1) The maximum term for a manufactured home lot loan shall not exceed 15 years and 32 days from the date of the loan; and
(2) The maximum term for a multi-module manufactured home and lot in combination shall not exceed 25 years and 32 days from the date of the loan.
(c) Loan refinancing. A loan to be refinanced under this part may be refinanced for an extended period.
(1) The term of a loan to refinance a borrower’s existing insured property improvement or manufactured home loan shall not exceed the maximum term permitted under paragraph (a) or (b) of this section for the particular type of loan. In addition, the total time period from the date of the original loan to the final maturity of the refinanced loan shall not exceed:
(i) In the case of a property improvement loan, the maximum term permitted under paragraph (a) of this section plus 9 years and 11 months; and
(ii) In the case of manufactured home loan, the maximum term permitted under paragraph (b) of this section plus 4 years and 11 months.
(2) The term of a loan made to refinance a borrower’s existing uninsured manufactured home loan shall not exceed the maximum term permitted under paragraph (b) of this section for the particular type of loan.
(3) When a borrower’s existing manufactured home lot is being refinanced in connection with the purchase of a manufactured home, the term of the combination loan shall not exceed the maximum term permitted under paragraph (b) of this section for the particular type of loan.
(4) When a borrower’s existing manufactured home is being refinanced in connection with the purchase of a manufactured home lot, the term of the combination loan shall not exceed the maximum term permitted under paragraph (b) of this section for the particular type of loan.
§ 201.12 Requirements for the note.
The note shall bear the genuine signature of each borrower and of any co-maker or co-signer, be valid and enforceable against the borrower and any co-maker or co-signer, and be complete and regular on its face. The borrower and any co-maker or co-signer shall execute the note for the full amount of the loan obligation. Although the note may be executed by the borrower on an earlier date, the date of the loan shall be the date that the loan proceeds are disbursed by the lender. Such date shall be entered on the note when disbursement occurs. The note shall separately recite the principal amount and any interest at an agreed annual rate that comprises the borrower’s payment obligation. The lender shall assure that the note and all other documents evidencing the loan transaction are in compliance with applicable Federal, State, and local laws. If the note is executed on behalf of a corporation, partnership, or trust by an authorized representative, it shall create a binding obligation on such entity.
§ 201.13 Interest and discount points.
The interest rate for any loan shall be negotiated and agreed to by the borrower and the lender, and such interest rate shall be fixed for the full term of the loan and recited in the note. Interest on the loan shall accrue from the date of the loan, and shall be calculated on a simple interest basis. The lender and the borrower may negotiate the amount of discount points, if any, to be paid by the borrower as part of the borrower’s initial payment. The lender shall not require or allow any party other than the borrower to pay any discount points or other financing charges in connection with the loan transaction.
§ 201.14 Payments on the loan.
The note normally shall provide for equal installment payments due weekly, biweekly, semi-monthly or monthly. The note may provide for either or both of the first and final payments to vary in amount but not to exceed 1
§ 201.15 Late charges to borrowers.
(a) Imposition of late charge. The note may provide for imposition of a late charge unless precluded by State law. The late charge may be imposed only for installments of principal and interest which are in arrears for the greater of 15 calendar days or the number of days required by applicable State law before such a charge may be imposed. Late charges must be billed to the borrower or reflected in the payment coupon, and evidence of any late charges that have been paid must be in the loan file if an insurance claim is made.
(b) Amount of late charge. The late charge shall not exceed the lesser of five percent of each installment of principal and interest, up to a maximum of $10 per installment for any property improvement loan and $15 per installment for any manufactured home loan, or the maximum amount permitted by applicable State law.
(c) Method of payment. Payment of any late charge cannot be deducted from the monthly payment for principal and interest, but must be an additional charge to the borrower.
(d) Daily interest in lieu of late charges. In lieu of late charges, the note may provide for interest to accrue on installments in arrears on a daily basis at the interest rate in the note.
§ 201.16 Default provision.
The loan note shall contain a provision for acceleration of maturity, at the option of the holder, upon a default by the borrower.
§ 201.17 Prepayment provision.
The note shall contain a provision permitting full or partial prepayment of the loan without penalty, except that the borrower may be assessed reasonable and customary charges for recording a release of the lender’s security interest in the property, if permitted by State law.
§ 201.18 Modification agreement or repayment plan.
(a) Modification agreement or repayment plan. A written but unrecorded modification agreement acceptable to the lender and executed by the borrower may be used in lieu of refinancing of a delinquent or defaulted loan to reduce or increase the monthly payment, but not to increase the term or the interest rate, so as to assure that the delinquent or defaulted loan is brought current before or by the end of the loan term. A modification agreement may also be used in lieu of refinancing in connection with a loan that is current to effect a reduction in the interest rate, and in the monthly payment, for the remainder of the loan term. When a modification agreement is used, no insurance reporting is required under § 201.30.
(b) Repayment plan. The lender may elect to negotiate an informal repayment plan with the borrower to enable a temporary delinquency to be cured within a short period of time. The lender may document the terms of the repayment plan by sending a letter to the borrower reciting the terms of their agreement. When a repayment plan is used, no insurance reporting is required under § 201.30.
§ 201.19 Refinanced and assumed loans.
(a) Conditions on refinancing. (1) An existing insured property improvement loan or manufactured home loan may be refinanced without an advance of funds only under the following conditions:
(i) A loan that is in default may not be refinanced for an amount greater than the original principal balance of the loan;
(ii) The refinancing of a loan for the original borrower shall be subject to all of the requirements of this part, except §§ 201.20(b) and (c), 201.21(b) through (e), 201.22, 201.23, and 201.26;
(iii) If there are co-makers or co-signers on the original note, the lender shall require the same co-makers or co-signers on the refinanced note, unless the lender obtains the Secretary’s approval to release a co-maker or co-signer from liability under the note in accordance with § 201.24(e); and
(iv) A loan that was assumed in accordance with paragraph (c) of this section may be refinanced, subject to all of the requirements of this part except §§ 201.20(b) and (c), 201.21(b) through (e), 201.22, 201.23, and 201.26, as long as the original borrower and any intervening assumptors were released from liability for repayment of the loan at the time the loan was assumed. A lender may not refinance a previously assumed loan under any other circumstances, unless the requirements of § 201.22 are also met and the Secretary has approved a release of the original borrower and any intervening assumptors in accordance with § 201.24(e).
(2) An existing insured property improvement loan may be refinanced with an advance of funds for additional improvements only under the following conditions:
(i) The existing insured loan must not be in default; and
(ii) The refinancing shall be subject to all of the requirements of this part applicable to the particular type of loan and to the additional improvements being financed.
(3) An existing uninsured manufactured home loan may be refinanced only for the original borrower and only under the following conditions:
(i) The existing uninsured loan must not be in default;
(ii) Refinancing of an existing uninsured manufactured home purchase loan or combination loan shall be subject to all the requirements of this part applicable to the particular type of loan except §§ 201.23 and 201.26(b)(4);
(iii) Refinancing of an existing uninsured manufactured home lot loan in connection with the purchase of a manufactured home shall be subject to all of the requirements of this part; and
(iv) Refinancing of an existing uninsured manufactured home purchase loan in connection with the purchase of a manufactured home lot shall be subject to all of the requirements of this part except § 201.26(b)(4).
(b) Note and security requirements for refinanced loans. (1) Refinancing of a loan requires the execution of a new note and cancellation of the old note.
(2) Refinancing of a loan that was secured when originated, regardless of the principal balance of the note at the time of refinancing, is required to be secured.
(3) Refinancing of a loan that was not secured when originated is not required to be secured if no additional funds are advanced.
(4) When a refinanced loan is secured, the lender shall obtain and record a new security instrument in accordance with § 201.24 and shall release the original lien, unless State law permits a renewal and extension of the original lien.
(5) Copies of all documents pertaining to the original loan must be retained in the loan file for the refinanced loan.
(c) Assumed loans. (1) At the option of the lender, an existing insured property improvement loan or manufactured home loan may be assumed, subject to the following conditions:
(i) A determination by the lender that the assumptor is eligible under § 201.20(a) or 201.21(a) and meets the requirements of § 201.22; and
(ii) The execution of an assumption agreement that is satisfactory to the lender and is signed by the assumptor and the original borrower or previous assumptor at the time of assumption.
(2) The lender shall not permit an assumption under any circumstances other than those contained in this section, and shall include appropriate provisions in any note or security agreement to enforce this requirement.
(3) Prior to the execution of the assumption agreement, the lender shall provide the assumptor with a written notice, to be signed by the assumptor and retained in the loan file, that:
(i) States that the loan being assumed is insured by HUD, and describes the actions the Secretary may take to recover the debt if the assumptor defaults on the loan and an insurance claim is paid; and
(ii) Constitutes the assumptor’s agreement to pay penalties and administrative costs imposed by HUD as authorized by 31 U.S.C. 3717.
(4) If the other requirements of paragraph (c) of this section are met, the lender at its option may release the original borrower and any intervening assumptors from liability for the repayment of a loan obligation insured under this part. The prior approval of the Secretary under § 201.24(e) is not required. The lender shall retain documentation of the release in the loan file.
Subpart C – Eligibility and Disbursement Requirements
§ 201.20 Property improvement loan eligibility.
(a) Borrower eligibility. (1) To be eligible for a property improvement loan (other than a manufactured home improvement loan), the borrower shall have at least a one-half interest in one of the following:
(i) Fee simple title to the real property;
(ii) Lease of the real property for a fixed term which expires not less than six calendar months after the final maturity of the loan; or
(iii) A properly recorded land installment contract for the purchase of the real property.
(2) To be eligible for a manufactured home improvement loan, the borrower shall have at least a one-half interest in the manufactured home, and the home must be the principal residence of the borrower.
(b) Eligible use of the loan proceeds. (1) The loan proceeds shall be used only for the purposes disclosed in the loan application. If the borrower plans to use a dealer or contractor to carry out the improvement work, the lender shall obtain a copy of a proposal or contract that describes in detail the work to be performed and the estimated or actual cost. If the borrower plans to carry out the improvement work without the services of a dealer or contractor, the borrower shall be required to furnish a detailed written description of the work to be performed, the materials to be furnished, and their estimated cost.
(2) The loan proceeds shall be used only to finance property improvements that substantially protect or improve the basic livability or utility of the property. The Secretary will establish a list of items and activities that may not be financed with the proceeds of any property improvement loan. If a lender has any doubt as to the eligibility of any item or activity, it shall request a specific ruling by the Secretary before making a loan.
(3) The loan proceeds shall only be used to finance property improvements that are started after loan approval, unless:
(i) The prior approval of the Secretary is obtained for an exception to this requirement; or
(ii) The property is located in a major disaster area declared by the President, and the lender determines that emergency action is needed to repair damage resulting from the disaster.
(c) Special pre-application requirements. (1) Where the proceeds are to be used for an historic preservation loan, the proposed improvements shall be reviewed and approved by the State Historic Preservation Officer (or other person authorized by the Secretary of the Interior to make such reviews) prior to making application for a loan. The purpose of the review is to determine that (i) the structure is an historic residential structure listed on the National Register of Historic Places or certified by the Secretary of the Interior as conforming with National Register criteria, and (ii) the proposed improvements comply with criteria set by the Secretary of the Interior for the preservation of historic structures.
(2) Where the proceeds are to be used for a fire safety equipment loan, the proposed improvements shall be reviewed and approved by the State or local agency having primary jurisdiction over the fire safety requirements of health care facilities prior to making application for a loan.
§ 201.21 Manufactured home loan eligibility.
(a) Borrower eligibility. To be eligible for a manufactured home loan (whether a manufactured home purchase loan, a manufactured home lot loan, or a combination loan), the borrower must become the owner of the particular property which is to be financed with such a loan. Where the loan involves a manufactured home which is classified as realty, ownership of the home must be in fee simple. Where the loan involves a manufactured home lot, ownership of the lot must be in fee simple, except where the lot consists of a share in a cooperative association which owns and operates a manufactured home park.
(b) Eligible use of loan proceeds. (1) The loan proceeds may be used for the purchase or refinancing of a manufactured home, a suitably developed lot on which to place a manufactured home already owned by the borrower, or a manufactured home and a suitably developed lot for the home in combination. The loan proceeds may also be used to refinance an existing manufactured home already owned by the borrower in connection with the purchase of a manufactured home lot, or to refinance a lot already owned by the borrower in connection with the purchase of a manufactured home. Where the proceeds are for a manufactured home purchase loan or combination loan, the home must be the borrower’s principal residence. Where the proceeds are for a manufactured home lot loan, the borrower’s manufactured home must be placed on the lot and occupied as the borrower’s principal residence within six months after the date of the loan.
(2) A manufactured home financed with an insured loan under this part may be either:
(i) A new home, which is one that is purchased by the borrower within 18 months after the date of manufacture and has not been previously occupied; or
(ii) An existing home, which is one that does not meet the criteria for a new home. In order to be eligible for financing with an insured loan under this part, the manufactured home, its warranty and the site on which the home is placed must meet the requirements of paragraphs (c) through (e) of this section.
(3) The proceeds of a loan to purchase a new manufactured home or a new manufactured home and lot shall not be used to purchase furniture or wheels and axles, and the cost of these items shall not be included in the total principal obligation calculated under § 201.10 (b)(1) or (d)(1).
(4) The proceeds of a manufactured home purchase loan may be used for the purchase, construction or installation of a garage, carport, patio or other comparable appurtenance to the manufactured home, as stated in the retail purchase contract and as approved by the Secretary. The proceeds of a combination loan may be used for the purchase, construction or installation of a permanent foundation, garage, carport, patio or other comparable appurtenance to the manufactured home.
(5) The Secretary will establish a list of items and activities that may not be financed with the proceeds of any manufactured home loan. If a lender has any doubt as to the eligibility of any item or activity, it shall request a specific ruling by the Secretary before making a loan.
(c) Construction, transportation and installation requirements. (1) The manufactured home shall be certified by the manufacturer under applicable criminal and civil penalties for fraud and misrepresentation to have been constructed in compliance with the National Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974, 42 U.S.C. 5401-5426, so as to conform to all applicable Federal construction and safety standards, as evidenced by a label or tag affixed to the manufactured home in accordance with 24 CFR 3280.8.
(2) During any period of transportation from the factory to the borrower’s homesite, the structural integrity of the manufactured home shall be maintained so that it will be livable and durable.
(3) The installation or erection of the manufactured home on the homesite shall comply with the manufacturer’s requirements for anchoring, support, stability and maintenance. Any permanent foundation shall be constructed in accordance with the current edition of HUD’s Permanent Foundations Guide for Manufactured Housing (HUD Handbook 4930.3).
(4) For any manufactured home purchase loan or combination loan involving a sale of the manufactured home by a dealer, the dealer shall inspect the manufactured home, as installed or erected on the homesite, for structural damage or other defects resulting from the transportation and installation of the home. The dealer shall also test the performance of the home’s plumbing, mechanical and electrical systems to assure that they are fully operational.
(d) Manufacturer’s warranty requirements. (1) To induce the Secretary to insure a title I loan under this part for the purchase of a new manufactured home and to induce a borrower to purchase such a home, the home manufacturer shall furnish the borrower with a written warranty, duly executed by an authorized representative of the manufacturer on a HUD-approved form. The warranty shall be provided without cost to the borrower. The effective date of the warranty shall be the date of delivery of the manufactured home to the borrower, regardless of when the warranty was executed by the manufacturer or was delivered to the borrower.
(2) The warranty shall obligate the home manufacturer to take appropriate action to correct any nonconformity with the standards prescribed in paragraph (c)(1) of this section or any defects in materials or workmanship which become evident within one year after the date of delivery. This warranty shall be in addition to, and not in derogation of, all other rights and privileges which the borrower may have under any other law or instrument during such period or thereafter. A copy of the warranty shall be retained in the lender’s loan file.
(3) Prior to making a loan involving a new manufactured home, the lender shall investigate whether the home manufacturer is substantially complying with its warranty obligations on other homes financed by the lender under any program. If the lender knows, because of consumer complaints, dealer comments or other information concerning the manufacturer received in the course of business, that consumers have complained about warranty performance, the lender shall ascertain whether such complaints have been resolved. The lender’s findings shall be documented in the loan file. Such documentation may reference information or materials contained in other files of the lender, provided that the file contains a written certification signed by a responsible loan officer under applicable criminal and civil penalties for fraud and misrepresentation that the lender’s findings are supported by such other information or materials.
(4) If the lender concludes under paragraph (d)(3) of this section that a manufacturer may not be honoring its warranties, the lender shall immediately notify the Secretary in writing, with documentation of the facts and circumstances.
(e) Manufactured homesite standards. (1) To assure the suitability of the homesite, the manufactured home shall be placed on a leased site in a manufactured home park or on an individual manufactured home lot or other site owned or leased by the borrower that meets the following standards. A manufactured home may be placed on a site within Indian trust or otherwise restricted lands if the borrower owns or leases the site, or if the borrower obtains written permission acceptable to the Secretary from the trustee or the tribal authority who controls the use of the site.
(2) The manufactured homesite shall be served by adequate public or community water and sewerage systems, unless appropriate local officials certify that either or both such systems are unavailable to provide an adequate level of service to the manufactured homesite. If either or both such systems are not available, the manufactured homesite shall comply with local or State minimum lot area requirements for the provision of onsite water supply and/or sewage disposal.
(3) When the manufactured home is to be placed on a leased site in a manufactured home park, the lender shall obtain certifications from the appropriate State or local government officials that the park complies with minimum standards relating to vehicular access, water supply, sewage disposal, utility connections, and other aspects of park development. Where minimum State and local standards for park development are not established or enforced, the lender shall obtain a certification from a registered civil engineer that the park meets minimum standards for park development prescribed by the Secretary.
(4) When the manufactured home is to be placed on an individual manufactured home lot or other site owned or leased by the borrower (or on an Indian land site under paragraph (e)(1) of this section), the lender shall obtain certifications from the appropriate local government officials that:
(i) The site complies with local zoning ordinances and regulations, if any;
(ii) Adequate vehicular access from a public right-of-way is available to the site;
(iii) Adequate water supply and sewage disposal facilities are available to or on the site; and
(iv) Any other minimum local standards and requirements for site suitability are met. Where minimum local standards for water supply and sewage disposal are not established or enforced, the lender shall obtain a certification from a registered civil engineer that the site meets minimum standards for water supply and sewage disposal prescribed by the Secretary.
§ 201.22 Credit requirements for borrowers.
(a) Credit application and review. (1) Before making a loan insured under this part, the lender shall exercise prudence and diligence to determine whether the borrower and any co-maker or co-signer is solvent and an acceptable credit risk, with a reasonable ability to make payments on the loan obligation. All documentation supporting this determination and relating to the lender’s review of the credit of the borrower and of any co-maker or co-signer shall be retained in the loan file.
(2) The lender shall obtain a separate dated credit application on a HUD-approved form, executed by the borrower and any co-maker or co-signer under applicable criminal and civil penalties for fraud and misrepresentation, for each loan made. The lender shall verify that the borrower’s Social Security Number is valid, through such documentation as may be prescribed by the Secretary.
(3) The lender shall conduct a credit investigation based on the credit application, and shall obtain written verification of or otherwise document the current employment and current income of the borrower and any co-maker or co-signer. If the borrower or any co-maker or co-signer has changed employment within the past two years, the lender shall obtain written verification of or otherwise document the person’s prior employment and prior income during the two-year period. If the borrower or any co-maker or co-signer was self-employed during any period of the previous two years, the lender shall obtain documentation of the person’s income during such period of self-employment.
(4) The lender shall also determine the total amount of the borrower’s existing and proposed title I loans to ensure that the loan amounts in § 201.10 are not exceeded.
(5) As part of its credit investigation, the lender shall obtain a consumer credit report stating the credit accounts and payment history of the borrower and of any co-maker or co-signer. Subject to state or local law, the lender shall check with the inquirers concerning all credit inquiries reported within the previous 90 days to determine whether the borrower or the co-maker or co-signer has incurred debts not listed on the credit application. If a consumer credit report is not available or is incomplete, the loan file shall contain other documentation of the lender’s diligent investigation of the credit of the borrower or of the co-maker or co-signer.
(6) If the consumer credit report does not contain the necessary information, the lender shall obtain written verification that the borrower is not over 30 days delinquent on any senior mortgages or deeds of trust on the property being improved with a property improvement loan.
(7) The lender shall verify, in such manner as the Secretary may prescribe, whether the borrower is in default or a claim has been paid in connection with any loan obligation owed to or insured or guaranteed by the Federal Government.
(8) For any loan with a total principal balance in excess of $5,000, the lender shall obtain written verification of the source of all funds of the borrower required for the borrower’s initial payment, if such payment will be in excess of five percent of the loan.
(9) Before making a final determination on the creditworthiness of the borrower, the lender shall conduct a face-to-face or telephone interview with the borrower and any co-maker or co-signer to resolve any discrepancies in the information on the credit application and to assure that the information is accurate and complete.
(10) After a thorough credit investigation and in the absence of information to the contrary, the lender may rely upon all statements of fact made by the borrower or any co-maker or co-signer in a credit application.
(b) Income requirements. (1) For any Title I loan, the credit application and review must establish that the borrower’s income will be adequate to meet the periodic payments required by the loan, as well as the borrower’s other housing expenses and recurring charges. For a borrower’s income to be considered adequate, housing expenses and total fixed expenses generally may not exceed maximum percentages of effective gross income established by the Secretary. If these expense-to-income ratios are exceeded, the borrower’s income may be considered adequate only if the lender determines and documents in the loan file the existence of compensating factors concerning the borrower’s creditworthiness that support approval of the loan.
(2) In determining whether the borrower’s income is adequate, the following definitions are applicable:
(i) Effective gross income is defined as continuing income from all sources that is reasonably expected to be available during the first two years of the loan obligation, without any deduction for income taxes or other items.
(ii) Total fixed expenses is the sum of the borrower’s housing expenses and other recurring charges.
(iii) Housing expenses includes all payments for principal, interest, loan or mortgage insurance charges, ground rent or leasehold charges, real estate taxes, hazard insurance, and homeowners association or condominium fees, but does not include utility costs.
(iv) Other recurring charges include all payments on automobile loans, furniture loans, student loans, installment loans, revolving charge accounts, alimony or child support, and any other debt for which the obligation is expected to continue for six months or more.
(c) Evidence of delinquency, default or misrepresentation. Except with the prior approval of the Secretary the lender shall not approve a loan if the lender has knowledge of any of the following circumstances:
(1) The borrower is past due more than 30 days as to the payment of principal or interest under the original terms of a loan obligation owed to or insured or guaranteed by the Federal Government, unless the debt has since been discharged or satisfied; or
(2) The borrower has previously made material misstatements of fact on applications for loans or other assistance.
§ 201.23 Borrower’s initial payment.
(a) General requirement. The borrower shall be responsible for the payment in cash of any costs that will not be paid, or are not eligible to be paid, from the proceeds of the loan. Such costs payable by the borrower may include any required downpayment, any discount points to be paid by the borrower to the lender, any other fees and charges that may not be financed, and any other costs in excess of the loan amount. No part of such costs payable by the borrower may be loaned, advanced, or paid to or for the benefit of the borrower by the dealer, the manufacturer, or any other party to the loan transaction. If the borrower obtains all or any part of such costs through a gift or a loan from some other source, the borrower must disclose the source of such gift or loan on the credit application. Any such loan must be secured by property or collateral owned by the borrower independently of the property securing repayment of the Title I loan, unless the prior approval of the Secretary is obtained for an exception to this requirement. The lender shall consider any such loan obligation in performing the credit investigation. Documentation of any initial payment shall be retained by the lender in the loan file.
(b) Manufactured home purchase loans. In the case of a manufactured home purchase loan, the borrower shall make a minimum cash downpayment of at least five percent of the purchase price of the home. The borrower’s equity in an existing manufactured home and any movable appurtenances may be traded-in on a new home and accepted in lieu of full or partial cash downpayment, but without any cash payment to the borrower. The existing manufactured home being traded-in shall be clearly identified, and the borrower’s equity in the home shall be based upon the retail value of the home and appurtenances (as determined by a HUD-approved appraisal), less the total of all loans outstanding on the home and appurtenances.
(c) Manufactured home lot loans. In the case of a manufactured home lot loan, the borrower shall make a minimum cash downpayment of at least five percent of the total of the purchase price and development costs for the lot.
(d) Combination loans. In the case of a combination loan, the borrower shall make a minimum cash downpayment of at least five percent of the purchase price of the manufactured home and lot. If the borrower already owns a manufactured home or a lot on which a manufactured home is to be placed, the borrower’s equity in such home or lot may be accepted in lieu of full or partial cash downpayment on a combination loan, but without any cash payment to the borrower.
§ 201.24 Security requirements.
(a) Property improvement loans – (1) Property improvement loans in excess of $7,500. (i) Any property improvement loan in excess of $7,500 shall be secured by a recorded lien on the improved property. The lien shall be evidenced by a mortgage or deed of trust, executed by the borrower and all other owners in fee simple.
(ii) If the borrower is a lessee, the borrower and all owners in fee simple must execute the mortgage or deed of trust. If the borrower is purchasing the property under a land installment contract, the borrower, all owners in fee simple, and all intervening contract sellers must execute the mortgage or deed of trust.
(iii) The lien need not be a first lien on the property; however, the lien securing the Title I loan must hold no less than the second lien position. This requirement shall not apply where the first and second mortgages were made at the same time or the second mortgage was provided by a state or local government agency in conjunction with a downpayment assistance program.
(2) Property improvement loans of $7,500 or less. Any property improvement loan for $7,500 or less (other than a manufactured home improvement loan) shall be similarly secured if, including any such additional loans, the total amount of all Title I loans on the improved property is more than $7,500.
(3) Manufactured home improvement loans. Manufactured home improvement loans need not be secured.
(b) Manufactured home loans. Any manufactured home loan shall be secured by a recorded lien on the home (or lot or home and lot, as appropriate), its furnishings, equipment, accessories, and appurtenances. The lien shall be a first lien, superior to any other lien on that property, and shall be evidenced by a properly recorded financing statement, a properly recorded security instrument executed by the borrower and any other owner of the property, or another acceptable instrument, such as a certificate of title issued by the State and containing a recitation of the lender’s lien interest in the manufactured home.
(c) Recording and perfection of security. The lender shall assure that the legal description of the property as recited in the security instrument is accurate, and that the security instrument creates a valid and enforceable lien on the property in the jurisdiction in which the property is located. The security instrument shall be recorded and perfected in the manner specified by applicable State law in the State where the property is located.
(d) Substitution or subordination of security. The Secretary may approve substitution or subordination of security where the security value will not be impaired or reduced.
(e) Release of liability or lien. The lender shall not release the borrower or any co-maker or co-signer from any liability under a note or from any lien securing a loan insured under this part without the prior approval of the Secretary.
§ 201.25 Charges to borrower to obtain loan.
(a) Fees and charges that may be financed in a property improvement loan. The Secretary will establish a list of fees and charges that may be included in a property improvement loan. Such fees and charges shall have been incurred in connection with the origination of the loan, and their inclusion shall not increase the total principal obligation beyond the maximum loan amounts in § 201.10.
(b) Fees and charges that may be financed in a manufactured home loan. The Secretary will establish a list of fees and charges that may be included in a manufactured home loan. Such fees and charges shall have been incurred in connection with the origination of the loan, and their inclusion shall not increase the total principal obligation beyond the maximum loan amounts in § 201.10.
(c) Fees and charges that may not be financed. The Secretary will establish a list of fees and charges incurred by the lender that may be collected from the borrower in the initial payment, but may not be included in the loan amount or otherwise financed or advanced by the dealer, the manufacturer, or any other party to the loan transaction.
(d) Fees and charges that may not be paid. Neither the lender nor the borrower may pay a referral fee to any dealer, home manufacturer, contractor, supplier, real estate broker, loan broker, or any other party in connection with the origination of a loan insured under this part.
§ 201.26 Conditions for loan disbursement.
(a) Property improvement loans. The lender shall comply with the following applicable requirements before disbursing the proceeds of a property improvement loan.
(1) The lender shall ensure that the following conditions are met:
(i) The borrower is eligible for a property improvement loan in accordance with § 201.20(a) (1) or (2); and
(ii) The interest of the borrower in the property is valid, through such title or other evidence as are generally acceptable to prudent lending institutions and leading attorneys in the community in which the property is situated.
(2) The proposed use of the loan proceeds shall be documented in accordance with the requirements of § 201.20(b)(1).
(3) Where the proceeds are to be used for an historic preservation loan, the lender shall ensure that the proposed improvements have been approved by the State Historic Preservation Officer in accordance with § 201.20(c).
(4) Where the proceeds are to be used for a fire safety equipment loan, the lender shall ensure that the proposed improvements have been approved by the State or local agency having jurisdiction over the fire safety requirements of health care facilities in accordance with § 201.20(c).
(5) In the case of a dealer loan, the lender shall obtain a completion certificate, on a HUD-approved form and signed by the borrower and the dealer under applicable criminal and civil penalties for fraud and misrepresentation, certifying that
(i) the improvements are eligible and have been completed in general accordance with the contract or cost estimate furnished to the lender, and
(ii) The borrower has not obtained the benefit of and will not receive any cash payment, rebate, cash bonus, sales commission, or anything of more than nominal value from the dealer as an inducement for the consummation of the transaction.
(6) In the case of a dealer loan made on or after December 7, 2001, the lender may disburse the loan proceeds solely to the borrower, or jointly to the borrower and the dealer or other parties to the transaction.
(7) In the case of a dealer loan, the lender must conduct a telephone interview with the borrower before the disbursement of the loan proceeds. The lender, at minimum, must obtain an oral affirmation from the borrower to release funds to the dealer. The lender shall document the borrower’s oral affirmation.
(8) For any property improvement loan, the lender shall provide the borrower with a written notice, to be signed by the borrower and retained in the loan file, that:
(i) States that the loan will be insured by HUD and describes the actions the Secretary may take to recover the debt if the borrower defaults on the loan and an insurance claim is paid;
(ii) Constitutes the borrower’s agreement to pay penalties and administrative costs imposed by HUD as authorized by 31 U.S.C. 3717; and
(iii) In the case of a direct loan, constitutes an acknowledgement of the borrower’s postdisbursement obligation to furnish a completion certificate and to permit an on-site inspection by the lender or its agent in accordance with §§ 201.40(b) and (c).
(9) The lender shall assure that the loan file is complete and contains the note, security instrument, and copies of all other documents relating to the property improvement loan transaction.
(b) Manufactured home loans. The lender shall comply with the following applicable requirements before disbursing the proceeds of a manufactured home loan.
(1) The lender shall ensure that the borrower is eligible for a manufactured home loan in accordance with § 201.21(a).
(2) The lender shall assure that the loan file is complete, and shall obtain the following documents for retention in the loan file:
(i) A signed copy of the purchase contract between the borrower and the dealer or seller;
(ii) A copy of the manufacturer’s invoice, where the loan involves the purchase of a new manufactured home;
(iii) Copies of itemized statements of other costs, fees and charges, whether paid by the borrower or financed with the loan proceeds; and
(iv) The note and security instrument and copies of all other documents relating to the loan transaction.
(v) The note, security instrument and copies of all other documents relating to the loan transaction.
(3) The lender shall obtain certifications from the borrower under applicable criminal and civil penalties for fraud and misrepresentation that:
(i) The manufactured home being financed with a manufactured home purchase loan or combination loan will be occupied as the borrower’s principal residence;
(ii) Where the proceeds are for a manufactured home lot loan, the borrower’s manufactured home will be placed on the lot and will be occupied as the borrower’s principal residence within six months after the date of the loan;
(iii) The initial payment required under § 201.23 was made, and no part of the initial payment was borrowed from or otherwise advanced or paid to or for the benefit of the borrower by the dealer or seller, the manufacturer, or any other party to the transaction, and if any part of the initial payment was obtained through a gift or loan, the source of the gift or loan and the security for any such loan was disclosed on the credit application;
(iv) While any portion of the loan obligation on a manufactured home purchase loan is unpaid, the manufactured home may be moved only to a new site in compliance with § 201.21 (c) and (e), and only with the lender’s prior approval;
(v) While any portion of the loan obligation on a combination loan is unpaid, the manufactured home will not be moved to a new site;
(vi) The borrower has paid the remaining unpaid balance on any other manufactured home loan secured by a different property, unless the prior approval of the Secretary is obtained for an exception to this requirement; and
(vii) The borrower has not obtained the benefit of and will not receive any cash payment, rebate, cash bonus, or anything of more than nominal value from the manufacturer or dealer as an inducement for the consummation of the transaction.
(4) For any manufactured home purchase loan or combination loan involving the sale of a manufactured home by a dealer, the lender shall obtain a placement certificate, on a HUD-approved form and signed by the dealer under applicable criminal and civil penalties for fraud and misrepresentation, certifying that:
(i) The manufactured homesite meets the requirements of § 201.21(e);
(ii) The structural integrity of the manufactured home was maintained during the process of transporting the home to the borrower’s homesite;
(iii) The manufactured home has been installed or erected on the homesite in accordance with the manufacturer’s requirements for anchoring, support, stability and maintenance;
(iv) If the manufactured home is placed on a permanent foundation, such foundation has been constructed in accordance with the requirements of § 201.21(c)(3);
(v) The dealer has performed the inspection and tests required under § 201.21(c)(4) and has determined that the manufactured home has sustained no structural damage or other defects resulting from its transportation or installation, and all plumbing, mechanical and electrical systems are fully operational;
(vi) Any initial payment required under § 201.23 was made by the borrower, and no part of the initial payment was loaned, advanced, or paid to or for the benefit of the borrower by the manufacturer, dealer, or any other party to the loan transaction; and
(vii) The borrower has not obtained the benefit of and will not receive any cash payment, rebate, cash bonus, or anything of more than nominal value from the manufacturer or dealer as an inducement for the consummation of the transaction.
(5) The lender shall obtain and file the certifications by local officials or a civil engineer which are required under § 201.21(e) to document the suitability of the manufactured homesite.
(6) For any direct manufactured home purchase loan or combination loan involving the relocation of the manufactured home to a new homesite owned or leased by the borrower, the lender (or an agent of the lender that is not a manufactured home dealer) shall conduct a site-of-placement inspection to verify that:
(i) States that the loan will be insured by HUD and describes the actions the Secretary may take to recover the debt if the borrower defaults on the loan and an insurance claim is paid;
(ii) The manufactured home and any itemized options and appurtenances included in the purchase price of the home or to be financed with the loan proceeds have been delivered and installed; and
(iii) The manufactured home has been properly erected or installed on the homesite without any apparent structural damage or other serious defects resulting from its transportation or installation, and all plumbing, mechanical and electrical systems are fully operational.
(7) The lender shall provide the borrower with a written notice, to be signed by the borrower and retained in the loan file, that:
(i) States that the loan will be insured by the HUD and describes the actions the Secretary may take to recover the debt if the borrower defaults on the loan and an insurance claim is paid; and
(ii) Constitutes the borrower’s agreement to pay penalties and administrative costs imposed by HUD as authorized by 31 U.S.C. 3717.
(8) Where a manufactured home purchase loan involves a manufactured home which is to be located on Indian trust or otherwise restricted lands, the lender shall obtain written permission from the trustee or the tribal authority who controls the site for the lender to repossess the home in the event of default by the borrower and acceleration of the loan.
§ 201.27 Requirements for dealer loans.
(a) Dealer approval and supervision. (1) The lender shall approve only those dealers which, on the basis of experience and information, the lender considers to be reliable, financially responsible, and qualified to satisfactorily perform their contractual obligations to borrowers and to comply with the requirements of this part. However, in no case shall the lender approve a dealer that is unable to meet the following minimum qualifications:
(i) Net worth. All property improvement and manufactured home dealers shall have and maintain a net worth of not less than $32,000 and $63,000, respectively. The required net worth must be maintained in assets acceptable to the Secretary.
(ii) Business experience. All property improvement loan and manufactured home dealers must have demonstrated business experience as a property improvement contractor or supplier, or in manufactured home retail sales, as applicable.
(2) The lender’s approval of a dealer shall be documented on a HUD-approved form, signed and dated by the dealer and the lender under applicable criminal and civil penalties for fraud and misrepresentation, and containing information supplied by the dealer on its trade name, places of business, type of ownership, type of business, and names and employment history of the owners, principals, officers, and salespersons. The dealer shall furnish a current financial statement prepared by someone who is independent of the dealer and is qualified by education and experience to prepare such statements, together with such other documentation as the lender deems necessary to support its approval of the dealer. The lender shall obtain a commercial credit report on the dealer and consumer credit reports on the owners, principals, and officers of the dealership.
(3) The lender shall require each dealer to apply annually for reapproval. The dealer shall furnish the same documentation as is required under paragraph (a)(2) of this section to support its application for reapproval. In no case shall the lender reapprove a dealer that is unable to meet the minimum net worth requirements in paragraph (a)(1) of this section.
(4) The lender shall supervise and monitor each approved dealer’s activities with respect to loans insured under this part. The lender shall visit each approved dealer’s places of business at least once in every six months to review its Title I performance and compliance. The lender shall maintain a file on each approved dealer which contains the executed dealer approval form and supporting documentation required under paragraph (a)(2) of this section, together with information on the lender’s experience with Title I loans involving the dealer. Each dealer file shall contain information about borrower defaults on Title I loans over time, records of completion or site-of-placement inspections conducted by the lender or its agent, copies of letters concerning borrower complaints and their resolution, and records of the lender’s periodic review visits to the dealer’s premises. The lender may also require that the dealer furnish records on individual loan transactions, if needed to enable the lender to review the dealer’s Title I performance and compliance.
(5) If a dealer does not satisfactorily perform its contractual obligations to borrowers, does not comply with Title I program requirements, or is unresponsive to the lender’s supervision and monitoring requirements, the lender shall terminate the dealer’s approval and immediately notify the Secretary with written documentation of the facts. A dealer whose approval is terminated under these circumstances shall not be reapproved without prior written approval from the Secretary. The lender may in its discretion terminate the approval of a dealer for other reasons at any time.
(6) The lender shall require each approved (or reapproved) dealer to provide written notification of any material change in its trade name(s), place(s) of business, type of ownership, type of business, or principal individuals who control or manage the business. The dealer shall furnish such notification to the lender within 30 days after the date of any material change.
(7) As a condition of manufactured home dealer approval (or reapproval), the lender may require a manufactured home dealer to execute a written agreement that, if requested by the lender, the dealer will resell any manufactured home repossessed by the lender under a title I insured manufactured home purchase loan approved by the lender as a dealer loan involving that dealer.
(b) Provision for full or partial recourse. In the case of a dealer-originated manufactured home purchase loan or combination loan, the lender and the dealer may agree to a provision in the loan documents for partial or full recourse against the dealer, to reduce or eliminate the lender’s loss in the event of foreclosure or repossession. Such recourse provision shall specify that, for a default occurring within a period of not more than three years from the date of the loan, the dealer shall reimburse the lender for a fixed percentage of the unpaid amount of the loan obligation, after deducting the proceeds from the sale of the property and any amounts received or retained by the lender after the date of default. However, the extent of the dealer’s liability may not exceed 100 percent of the unpaid amount of the loan obligation prior to such deductions. When a claim is filed, the lender shall notify the Secretary if the loan was subject to a recourse agreement and whether the recourse agreement has been honored. If without the lender’s approval a dealer has failed to honor its recourse obligation, the lender shall notify the Secretary and shall assign the recourse obligation to the Secretary in filing an insurance claim.
§ 201.28 Flood and hazard insurance, and Coastal Barriers properties.
(a) Flood insurance. No property improvement loan or manufactured home loan shall be eligible for insurance under this part if the property securing repayment of the loan is located in a special flood hazard area identified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), unless the community in which the area is situated is participating in the National Flood Insurance Program, flood insurance under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is available with respect to such property improvements, and flood insurance on the property is obtained by the borrower in compliance with section 102 of the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973 (42 U.S.C. 4012a). Such insurance shall be in the form of the standard policy issued under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private flood insurance, as defined in 24 CFR 203.16a. Such insurance shall be obtained at any time during the term of the loan that the lender determines that the secured property is located in a special flood hazard area identified by FEMA and shall be maintained by the borrower for the remaining term of the loan, or until the lender determines that the property is no longer in a special flood hazard area, or until the property is repossessed or foreclosed upon by the lender. The amount of such insurance shall be at least equal to the unpaid balance of the Title I loan, and the lender shall be named as the loss payee for flood insurance benefits. A lender may determine that a private flood insurance policy meets the definition of private flood insurance, as defined in 24 CFR 203.16a, without further review of the policy, if the compliance aid statement provided in 24 CFR 203.16a(c) is included within the policy or as an endorsement to the policy.
(b) Hazard insurance. No manufactured home purchase loan or combination loan shall be eligible for insurance under this part unless hazard insurance on the manufactured home is obtained by the borrower and the lender is named as a loss payee of insurance benefits. Such insurance shall be maintained by the borrower for the full term of the loan or until the property is repossessed or foreclosed by the lender, and in an amount at least equal to the unpaid balance of the loan, except that the amount of insurance coverage shall be not less than the actual cash value of the home where State law precludes a higher amount. If the borrower fails to maintain such insurance, the lender shall obtain it at the borrower’s expense. If the home is not insured against hazards and sustains damage which would normally be covered by such insurance during the borrower’s ownership, the appraised value of the home for claim purposes will be adjusted in accordance with § 201.51(b)(3). Upon acquiring title to the property through repossession or foreclosure, the lender shall maintain hazard insurance upon the property in the amount prescribed above until its disposition and sale.
(c) Coastal barriers properties. No title I insurance shall be made available under this part for any property improvement loan or manufactured home loan except pursuant to a loan application approved before October 18, 1982, with respect to any property within the Coastal Barriers Resources System established by the Coastal Barriers Resources Act (16 U.S.C. 3501).
§ 201.29 Ineligible participants.
No loan may be insured under this part where the lender has been advised in writing by HUD or otherwise knows that any participant in the transaction as a dealer, home manufacturer, contractor, supplier, or broker, or as its agent or representative, has been suspended or debarred, or has otherwise been determined by HUD to be ineligible to participate in the title I program.
Subpart D – Insurance of Loans
§ 201.30 Reporting of loans for insurance.
(a) Date of reports. The lender shall transmit a loan report on each loan reported for insurance within 31 days from the date of the loan’s origination or purchase from a dealer or another lender. The loan report must be submitted on the form prescribed by the Secretary, and must contain the data prescribed by HUD. Any loan refinanced under this part shall similarly be reported on the prescribed form within 31 days from the date of refinancing. When a loan insured under this part is transferred to another lender without recourse, guaranty, guarantee, or repurchase agreement, a report on the prescribed form shall be transmitted to the Secretary within 31 days from the date of the transfer. No transfer of loan report is required when a loan insured under this part is transferred with recourse or under a guaranty, guarantee, or repurchase agreement.
(b) Late reports. The Secretary may accept a late report on a loan where the lender certifies that the obligation is not in default.
(c) Electronic loan reporting. With the prior approval of the Secretary, the lender may use electronic transmission to report loans for insurance in accordance with paragraph (a) of this section.
§ 201.31 Insurance charge.
(a) Insurance charge. For each eligible property improvement loan and manufactured home loan reported and acknowledged for insurance, the lender shall pay to the Secretary an insurance charge equal to 1.00 percent of the loan amount, multiplied by the number of years of the loan term. The insurance charge shall be paid in the manner prescribed in paragraph (b) of this section; however, no charge shall be made for a period of 14 days or less, and a charge for a full month shall be made for a period of more than 14 days. There shall be no abatement or refund of an insurance charge except as provided in paragraph (e) of this section.
(b) Payment of insurance charge. (1) For any loan having a maturity of 25 months or less, payment of the entire insurance charge prescribed in paragraph (a) of this section is due on the 25th calendar day after the date the Secretary acknowledges the loan report.
(2)(i) For any loan having a maturity in excess of 25 months, payment of the insurance charge shall be made in annual installments, with the first installment due on the 25th calendar day after the date the Secretary acknowledges the loan report, and the second and successive installments due on the 25th calendar day after the date of billing by the Secretary.
(ii) For any loan having a maturity in excess of 25 months, payment shall be made in annual installments of 1.00 percent of the loan amount until the insurance charge is paid.
(3) All insurance charges are considered earned when paid.
(4) The Secretary may require that loan insurance charges be remitted electronically. Instructions implementing this requirement shall be communicated to all affected lenders.
(c) Penalty charge and interest. Insurance charges not received from the lender by the due date specified in paragraph (b) of this section shall be assessed a penalty charge of four percent of the amount of the payment. Insurance charges received from the lender more than 30 days after the due date specified in paragraph (b) of this section shall also be assessed daily interest at the current United States Treasury value of funds rate, as published periodically in the
(d) Adjustment on notes transferred. Where there is a transfer of loan obligations between lenders and the insurance charges on such obligations have already been paid, any adjustment of such charges shall be made by the lenders involved. Any unpaid installments of the insurance charge shall be paid by the purchasing lender.
(e) Refund or abatement of insurance charges. A lender shall be entitled to a refund or abatement of insurance charges only in the following instances:
(1) Where the loan obligation has been refinanced, the unearned portion of the charge on the original obligation shall be credited to the charge on the refinanced loan.
(2) Where the loan obligation is prepaid in full or an insurance claim is filed, charges falling due after such prepayment or claim shall be abated.
(3) When a loan (or portion thereof) is found to be ineligible for insurance, charges paid on the ineligible portion shall be refunded, except where the Secretary determines that there was fraud or misrepresentation by the lender in the loan transaction. Such refund shall be made only if a claim is denied by the Secretary or the ineligibility is reported by the lender promptly upon discovery and confirmed by the Secretary. In no event shall a charge be refunded on the basis of loan ineligibility where the application for refund is made after the loan is paid in full. If a loan or claim has been denied and is subsequently resubmitted, the refunded amount of the insurance charge plus any accrued insurance charge shall be repaid.
(f) Lender passing insurance charge on to borrower. The insurance charge may be passed on to the borrower, provided that such charge is fully disclosed to the borrower.
§ 201.32 Insurance coverage reserve account.
(a) Establishment. The Secretary shall establish an insurance coverage reserve account for each lender. The amount of insurance coverage in each reserve account shall equal 10 percent of the amount disbursed, advanced, or expended by the lender in originating or purchasing eligible loans registered for insurance under this part, less the amount of all insurance claims approved for payment in connection with losses on such loans.
(b) Transfer of insured loans. The lender shall not sell, assign or otherwise transfer any insured loan or loan reported for insurance to a transferee lender not approved to originate and purchase title I loans under a valid title I contract of insurance. Nothing contained herein shall be construed to prevent the pledging of such a loan as collateral security under a trust agreement, or otherwise, in connection with a bona fide loan transaction.
(c) Transfer of insurance coverage. Not more than $5,000 in insurance coverage shall be transferred to or from a lender’s reserve account during any fiscal year (October 1 through September 30) without the prior approval of the Secretary. Except in cases involving the sale, assignment or transfer of loans sold with recourse or under a guaranty, guarantee or repurchase agreement, the Secretary shall transfer insurance coverage to or from a lender’s reserve account to accompany the loan transfers reported by lenders under § 201.30.
(1) In all cases involving the sale, assignment or transfer of loans sold without recourse, guaranty, guarantee, or repurchase agreement, the Secretary shall transfer insurance coverage to the reserve account established for the transferee lender in an amount equal to 10 percent of the actual purchase price or the net unpaid principal balance, whichever is lesser, but not to exceed the amount of insurance coverage in the transferor lender’s reserve account prior to the transfer. Insurance coverage shall be added to the existing amount of insurance coverage in the transferee lender’s reserve account. The Secretary may transfer insurance coverage with earmarking when a determination is made that it is in the Secretary’s interest to do so.
(2) In cases involving the transfer of loans sold with recourse or under a guaranty, guarantee or repurchase agreement, no insurance coverage will be transferred and no reports will be required.
(3) An existing insured property improvement loan or manufactured home loan may not be refinanced by a lender different from the originating or purchasing lender of record, unless the loan has been sold, assigned, or transferred to the new lender under paragraph (c) of this section and the Secretary has transferred insurance coverage for the loan under the applicable requirements of this paragraph.
(d) Recovery shall not affect insurance coverage reserve account. Amounts which may be recovered by the Secretary after payment of an insurance claim shall not be added to the amount of insurance coverage remaining in a lender’s reserve account.
Subpart E – Loan Administration
§ 201.40 Post-disbursement loan requirements.
(a) Discovery of misstatements of fact. If, after a loan has been made, the lender discovers any material misstatement of fact or that the loan proceeds have been misused by the borrower, dealer or any other party, it shall promptly report this to the Secretary. In such case, the insurance of the loan shall not be affected unless such material misstatement of fact or misuse of loan proceeds was caused by or was knowingly sanctioned by the lender or its employees (see § 201.31(e)(3)), provided that the validity of any lien on the property has not been impaired.
(b) Requirements on property improvement loans. (1) After receiving the proceeds of a direct property improvement loan, and after the work is completed to the borrower’s satisfaction, the borrower shall submit a completion certificate to the lender, on a HUD-approved form and signed by the borrower under applicable criminal and civil penalties for fraud and misrepresentation, certifying that:
(i) The improvements have been completed,
(ii) the amount borrowed has been spent on improvements eligible under § 201.20(b) and in accordance with the contract or cost estimate furnished to the lender prior to disbursement of the loan proceeds, and
(iii) The borrower has not obtained the benefit of and will not receive any cash payment, rebate, cash bonus, sales commission, or anything of more than nominal value from any contractor or supplier as an inducement for the consummation of the loan transaction.
(2) The borrower shall submit the completion certificate promptly upon the work’s completion, but not later than six months after the disbursement of the loan proceeds, with one six-month extension if necessary. If the borrower fails to submit the completion certificate within these time limits, an on-site inspection shall be conducted in accordance with paragraph (c) of this section.
(3) The borrower is not required to submit a completion certificate when the property improvement loan is made by or on behalf of a State or local government agency or a nonprofit organization, the loan proceeds are held in an escrow account pending completion of the improvements, and the loan proceeds are disbursed from the escrow account in stages, with the written approval of the borrower and based upon the percentage of work completed.
(c) Inspection requirement on property improvement loans. The lender or its agent shall conduct an on-site inspection on any property improvement loan where the principal obligation is $7,500 or more, and on any direct property improvement loan where the borrower fails to submit a completion certificate as required under paragraph (b) of this section. On a dealer loan, the inspection shall be completed within 60 days after the date of disbursement. On a direct loan, the inspection shall be completed within 60 days after receipt of the completion certificate, or as soon as the lender determines that the borrower is unwilling to cooperate in submitting the completion certificate. The purpose of the inspection is to verify the eligibility of the improvements and whether the work has been completed. If the borrower will not cooperate in permitting an on-site inspection, the lender shall report this fact to the Secretary.
(d) Inspection requirement on dealer manufactured home loans. For any manufactured home purchase loan or combination loan involving the sale of a manufactured home by a dealer, the lender (or an agent of the lender that is not a manufactured home dealer) shall conduct a site-of-placement inspection within 60 days after the date of disbursement to verify that:
(1) The terms and conditions of the purchase contract have been met;
(2) The manufactured home and any itemized options and appurtenances included in the purchase price of the home or financed with the loan proceeds have been delivered and installed; and
(3) The placement certificate executed by the borrower and the dealer is in order.
§ 201.41 Loan servicing.
(a) Generally. The lender shall service loans in accordance with accepted practices of prudent lending institutions. It shall have adequate facilities for contacting the borrower in the event of default, and shall otherwise exercise diligence in collecting the amount due. The lender shall remain responsible to the Secretary for proper collection efforts, even though actual loan servicing and collection may be performed by an agent of the lender. The lender shall have an organized means of identifying, on a periodic basis, the payment status of delinquent loans to enable collection personnel to initiate and follow-up on collection activities, and shall document its records to reflect its collection activities on delinquent loans.
(b) Partial payments. The lender shall accept any partial payment (inclusive of late charges) under an executed modification agreement or an acceptable repayment plan, and either apply it to the borrower’s account or hold it in a trust account pending disposition. When partial payments held for disposition aggregate a full monthly installment, they shall be applied to the borrower’s account, thus advancing the date of the oldest unpaid installment. If a partial payment is received more than 60 days after the date of default and was not submitted under a repayment plan or a modification agreement, the partial payment may be returned to the borrower, with a letter of explanation.
§ 201.42 Bankruptcy, insolvency or death of borrower.
(a) Bankruptcy or insolvency. The lender shall file a proof of claim with the court having jurisdiction when the lender has timely information that a borrower is involved in bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings, except that a proof of claim need not be filed if the court notifies the lender that the borrower has no assets and a proof of claim should not be filed. The notice of bankruptcy and a copy of the proof of claim (or the notice from the court that a proof of claim is not required) shall be retained in the loan file.
(b) Death of a borrower. The lender shall file a proof of claim with the court having jurisdiction when the lender has timely information that a borrower is deceased, unless the lender determines that there will not be a probate proceeding. A copy of the proof of claim (or documentation as to why a proof of claim was not filed) shall be retained in the loan file.
(c) Responsibility of the lender after insurance claim is filed. After the Secretary pays an insurance claim, the Secretary will notify the bankruptcy or probate court, as appropriate, that the loan has been assigned to the United States and will request substitution as the party to whom the claim is owed. Until the insurance claim is paid, the lender shall take all steps necessary to protect the interests of the holder of the note in any bankruptcy or probate proceeding.
§ 201.43 Administrative reports and examinations.
The Secretary may call upon a lender for any reports deemed necessary in connection with the regulations in this part and may inspect the loan files, records, books and accounts of the lender as they pertain to the loans reported for insurance.
Subpart F – Default Under the Loan Obligation
§ 201.50 Lender efforts to cure the default.
(a) Personal contact with the borrower before acceleration and foreclosure or repossession. The lender shall undertake foreclosure or repossession of the property securing a Title I loan that is in default only after the lender has serviced the loan in a timely manner and with diligence in accordance with the requirements of this part, and has taken all reasonable and prudent measures to induce the borrower to bring the loan account current. Before taking action to accelerate the maturity of the loan, the lender or its agent shall contact the borrower and any co-maker or co-signer, either in a face-to-face meeting or by telephone, to discuss the reasons for the default and to seek its cure. If the borrower and the co-makers or co-signers cannot be located, will not discuss the default, or will not agree to its cure, the lender may proceed to take action under paragraph (b) of this section. The lender shall document the results of its efforts to contact the borrower and any co-maker or co-signer, and shall place in the loan file a copy of any modification agreement or repayment plan that has been offered.
(b) Notice of default and acceleration. Unless the borrower cures the default or agrees to a modification agreement or repayment plan, the lender shall provide the borrower with written notice that the loan is in default and that the loan maturity is to be accelerated. In addition to complying with applicable State or local notice requirements, the notice shall be sent by certified mail and shall contain:
(1) A description of the obligation or security interest held by the lender;
(2) A statement of the nature of the default and of the amount due to the lender as unpaid principal and earned interest on the note as of the date 30 days from the date of the notice;
(3) A demand upon the borrower either to cure the default (by bringing the loan current or by refinancing the loan) or to agree to a modification agreement or a repayment plan, by not later than the date 30 days from the date of the notice;
(4) A statement that if the borrower fails either to cure the default or to agree to a modification agreement or a repayment plan by the date 30 days from the date of the notice, then, as of the date 30 days from the date of the notice, the maturity of the loan is accelerated and full payment of all amounts due under the loan is required;
(5) A statement that if the default persists the lender will report the default to an appropriate credit reporting agency; and
(6) Any other requirements prescribed by the Secretary.
(c) Reinstatement of the loan. The lender may rescind the acceleration of maturity after full payment is due and reinstate the loan only if the borrower brings the loan current, executes a modification agreement, or agrees to an acceptable repayment plan.
(d) Notice to credit reporting agency. If the loan maturity is accelerated and the loan is not reinstated, the lender shall report the default to an appropriate credit reporting agency.
§ 201.51 Proceeding against the loan security.
(a) Property improvement loans. (1) After acceleration of maturity on a secured property improvement loan, the lender may either proceed against the loan security under its title I security instrument or make claim under its contract of insurance. If the lender proceeds against the loan security, it may submit an insurance claim only if it complies with the requirements of paragraph (a)(2) of this section.
(2) The lender may proceed against the secured property under its Title I security instrument and later submit a claim under its contract of insurance only with the prior approval of the Secretary. The Secretary’s decision will be based upon all relevant factors, including but not limited to the appraised value and the amount of all outstanding loan obligations on the property, the estimated costs of foreclosure and disposition, and the anticipated time to dispose of the property. In proceeding against the secured property, the lender shall comply with all applicable State and local laws, and shall take all actions necessary to preserve its rights, if any, to obtain a valid and enforceable deficiency judgment against the borrower.
(3) After acceleration of maturity on a defaulted unsecured property improvement loan, the lender may submit a claim under its contract of insurance.
(b) Manufactured home loans. (1) After acceleration of maturity on a defaulted manufactured home loan, the lender shall proceed against the loan security by foreclosure or repossession, as appropriate, in compliance with all applicable State and local laws, and shall acquire good, marketable title to the property securing the loan. The lender shall also take all actions necessary under State and local law to preserve its rights, if any, to obtain a valid and enforceable deficiency judgment against the borrower.
(2) Prior to foreclosure or repossession, the lender or its agent shall make a visual inspection of the property and prepare a report on its condition for placement in the loan file. If the lender determines that the property has been abandoned, the lender shall take such steps as are permitted under State or local law to repossess or foreclose upon the property, without waiting for the notice period under § 201.50(b) to run.
(3) The lender shall obtain a HUD-approved appraisal of the property as soon after repossession as possible, or earlier with the permission of the borrower. This appraisal shall be performed on the homesite, unless the site owner requires that the home be removed before the appraisal can be performed, and it should reflect the retail value of comparable manufactured homes in similar condition and in the same geographic area where the repossession occurred. When the manufactured home is without hazard insurance and has sustained, at any time prior to the sale or disposition of the home, damage which would normally be covered by such insurance, the lender shall report this situation in submitting an insurance claim, and the appraised value shall be based upon the retail value of comparable homes in good condition and in the same geographic area, without any deduction for such damage.
§ 201.52 Acquisition by voluntary conveyance or surrender.
The lender may accept a voluntary conveyance of title to or ownership of the property securing a manufactured home loan which is in default, provided that (a) the lender accepts the conveyance in full satisfaction of the borrower’s obligation, and (b) no claim is submitted under its contract of insurance. The lender may accept voluntary surrender of the property without satisfaction of the borrower’s obligation, provided that if the lender intends thereafter to submit a claim under its contract of insurance, the lender shall acquire title to or ownership of the property and then dispose of and sell the property in compliance with State and local law, so as to assure that it can assign a valid and enforceable obligation, including any deficiency against the borrower, to the Secretary when submitting its claim. If the lender accepts a voluntary conveyance of title or a voluntary surrender of the property, the notice of default and acceleration under § 201.50(b) shall not be required.
§ 201.53 Disposition of manufactured home loan property.
Where the lender obtains title to property securing a manufactured home loan by repossession or foreclosure, the property shall be sold for the best price obtainable before making an insurance claim. In the case of a combination loan, the manufactured home and lot shall be sold in a single transaction and the manufactured home may not be removed from the lot, unless the prior approval of the Secretary is obtained for a different procedure. The best price obtainable shall be the greater of:
(a) The actual sales price of the property, after deducting the cost of repairs, furnishings, and equipment needed to make the property marketable, and after deducting the cost of transportation, set-up, and anchoring if the manufactured home is moved to a new homesite; or
(b) The appraised value of the property before repairs (as determined by a HUD-approved appraisal obtained in accordance with § 201.51(b)(3)).
§ 201.54 Insurance claim procedure.
(a) Claim application. A claim for reimbursement for loss on any eligible loan shall be made on a HUD-approved form, executed by a duly qualified officer of the lender under applicable criminal and civil penalties for fraud and misrepresentation. The insurance claim shall be fully documented and itemized, and shall be accompanied by all documents and materials required by the Secretary for claim review. The claim submission shall contain original copies of all notes, security instruments, assumption agreements, releases of liability for repayment of the loan, judgments obtained by the lender against the borrower, and any related documents and forms, except where State or local law requires their retention by the lender or a governmental body such as a court. As appropriate, the claim application shall be supported by the following:
(1) Documentation of the lender’s efforts to effect recourse against any dealer in accordance with any recourse agreement under § 201.27(b) between the lender and the dealer and contained in the loan documents;
(2) Certification under applicable criminal and civil penalties for fraud and misrepresentation that the lender has complied with all applicable State and local laws in carrying out any foreclosure or repossession, including copies of all notices served upon the borrower or published in connection with such foreclosure or repossession; and
(3) Where a borrower has declared bankruptcy or insolvency or is deceased, copies of the documentation required to be retained in the loan file under § 201.42.
(b) Maximum claim period. (1) An insurance claim shall be filed not later than the following dates:
(i) For property improvement loans – nine months after the date of default.
(ii) For manufactured home loans – three months after the date of sale of the property securing the loan, but not to exceed 18 months after the date of default.
(2) The Secretary may extend the claim filing period in a particular case, but only if the lender shows clear evidence that the delay in claim filing was in the interest of the Secretary or was caused by one of the following:
(i) Litigation related to the loan;
(ii) Management control of the lender or the Title I loan portfolio was assumed by a Federal or State agency; or
(iii) The borrower had experienced a loss of income or other financial difficulties directly attributable to a major disaster declared by the President, and additional time was needed to provide forbearance on a property improvement loan.
(3) If a borrower is a “person in military service” as that term is defined in the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Act of 1940 and is in default on a loan insured under this part, any period of military service after the date of default shall be excluded in computing the maximum time period for filing an insurance claim.
(c) Resubmitted and supplemental claims. (1) Any insurance claim which is resubmitted with an appeal of a claim denial or a request for a waiver of the regulations in accordance with § 201.5(b) shall be filed within six months after the date of the claim denial.
(2) Any supplemental insurance claim shall be filed within six months after the date of payment on the initial claim. A reprocessing fee, in an amount prescribed by the Secretary, will be charged for any supplemental claim.
(d) Assignment of lender’s rights to the United States. Upon the filing of the insurance claim, the lender shall assign its entire interest in the loan note (or in a judgment in lieu of the note), in any security held, and in any claim filed in probate, bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings, to the United States of America. The assignment shall be made in the form provided in paragraph (f) of this section, provided that if this form is not valid or generally acceptable in the jurisdiction involved, a form which is valid and generally acceptable in the jurisdiction where the judgment or security was taken shall be used. If the security interest has been assigned to the United States, the assignment shall be recorded in that jurisdiction prior to filing the insurance claim, unless the Secretary determines that recordation by the lender in that jurisdiction is impractical.
(e) Valid and enforceable obligation when assigned. The loan obligation evidenced by the note must be both valid and enforceable against the debtor at the time the note is assigned to the United States of America. If the Secretary has reason to believe that the obligation may not be either valid or enforceable against the borrower, the Secretary may either deny the claim and reassign the loan note to the lender, or require the lender to repurchase the paid claim and accept reassignment of the note. The lender will be notified of the reasons for the claim denial or repurchase. If the lender subsequently obtains a valid and enforceable judgment against the borrower for the unpaid balance of the loan, the lender may resubmit the claim with an assignment of the judgment.
(f) Form of assignment. A lender shall use the following form of assignment, or one generally acceptable in the jurisdiction involved, properly dated, to assign the lender’s entire interest in a loan note, judgment, real estate mortgage, deed of trust, conditional sales contract, chattel mortgage, mechanic’s lien, or any security, in making an insurance claim:
All right, title, and interest of the undersigned is hereby assigned (without warranty, except that the loan qualifies for insurance) to the United States of America (HUD).
(g) Denial of insurance claim. The Secretary may deny a claim for insurance in whole or in part based upon a violation of these regulations, unless a waiver of compliance with the regulations is granted under § 201.5.
(h) Incontestability of insurance claim payment. Any insurance claim payment on a title I loan shall be final and incontestable after two years from the date the claim was certified for payment by the Secretary, in the absence of fraud or misrepresentation on the part of the lender, unless a demand for repurchase of the loan obligation is made on behalf of the United States prior to the expiration of the two-year period.
§ 201.55 Calculation of insurance claim payment.
The lender will be reimbursed in an amount not to exceed 90 percent of its loss on any eligible loan up to the amount of insurance coverage in the lender’s insurance coverage reserve account established by the Secretary under § 201.32, if the insurance claim is made in accordance with the requirements of this part. The amount of the insurance claim payment shall be computed as follows:
(a) Property improvement loans. For property improvement loans, the insurance claim payment shall be 90 percent of the following amounts:
(1) The unpaid amount of the loan obligation (net unpaid principal and the uncollected interest earned to the date of default, calculated according to the terms of the note executed for any loan application that is approved prior to the effective date of these regulations, and calculated according to the actuarial method for all loans for which loan applications are approved on or after the effective date of these regulations). Where the lender has proceeded against the secured property under § 201.51(a)(2), the unpaid amount of the loan obligation shall be reduced by the proceeds received from the property’s sale or disposition, after deducting the following:
(i) The balances due on any obligations senior to the Title I loan obligation; and
(ii) Customary and reasonable expenses for foreclosure and disposition, as determined by the Secretary.
(2) Interest on the unpaid amount of the loan obligation from the date of default to the date of the claim’s initial submission for payment plus 15 calendar days, calculated at the rate of seven percent per annum. However, interest shall not be paid for any period greater than nine months from the date of default.
(3) The amount of uncollected court costs, including fees paid for issuing, serving, and filing a summons.
(4) The amount of attorney’s fees on an hourly or other basis for time actually expended and billed, not to exceed $500.
(5) The amount of expenses for recording the assignment of the security to the United States.
(b) Manufactured home loans. For manufactured home loans, the insurance claim payment shall be 90 percent of the sum of the following amounts:
(1) The unpaid amount of the loan obligation (net unpaid principal and the uncollected interest earned to the date of default, calculated according to the actuarial method), after deducting the following amounts:
(i) The best price obtainable for the property after lawful repossession or foreclosure, as determined in accordance with § 201.53;
(ii) All amounts to which the lender is entitled after the date of default from any source relating to the property, including but not limited to such items as rent, other income, recourse recovery against the dealer, hazard insurance benefits, secured interest protection insurance benefits, and rebates on prepaid insurance premiums; and
(iii) Amounts retained by the lender after the date of default, including amounts held or deposited to the account of the borrower or to which the lender is entitled under the loan transaction, and which have not been applied in reduction of the borrower’s indebtedness.
(2) Interest on the unpaid amount of the loan obligation from the date of default to the date of the claim’s initial submission for payment plus 15 calendar days, calculated at the rate of seven percent per annum. However, interest shall not be paid for any period greater than nine months from the date of default.
(3) For manufactured home purchase loans, the amount of costs paid to a dealer or other third party to repossess and preserve the manufactured home and other property securing repayment of the loan (including the costs of site inspection, property appraisal, hazard insurance premiums, personal property taxes, and site rental, as appropriate), plus actual costs not to exceed $1,000 per module for removing and transporting the home to a dealer’s lot or other off-site location.
(4) The amount of a sales commission paid to a dealer, real estate agent or other third party for the resale of the repossessed or foreclosed manufactured home and/or lot. Where the home is resold on-site, the commission shall not exceed 10 percent of the sales price. Where the home is resold off-site, the commission shall not exceed seven percent of the sales price.
(5) For manufactured home lot loans, and for combination loans where both the foreclosed manufactured home and lot are classified as realty, the amount of:
(i) State or local real estate taxes, ground rents, and municipal water and sewer fees or liens, prorated to the date of disposition of the property;
(ii) Special assessments which are noted on the loan application or which become liens after the insurance is issued, prorated to the date of disposition of the property;
(iii) Premiums for hazard insurance on the manufactured home, prorated to the date of disposition of the property; and
(iv) Transfer taxes imposed upon any deeds or other instruments by which the property was acquired by the lender.
(6) The amount of uncollected court costs, including fees paid for issuing, serving, and filing a summons.
(7) The amount of attorney’s fees on an hourly or other basis for time actually expended and billed, not to exceed $1,000.
(8) The amount of expenses for recording the assignment of the security to the United States, and for costs of repossession or foreclosure other than attorney’s fees and those incurred under paragraph (b)(3), but not to exceed costs which are customary and reasonable in the jurisdiction where the repossession or foreclosure takes place, as determined by the Secretary.
Subpart G – Debts Owed to the United States Under Title I
§ 201.60 General.
(a) Applicability. The provisions in this subpart apply to the collection of debts owed to the United States arising out of the Title I program. These debts include, but are not limited to:
(1) Amounts owed on loans assigned to the United States by insured lenders as the result of defaults by borrowers;
(2) Unpaid insurance charges owed by lenders; and
(3) Unpaid obligations of lenders arising from repurchase demands.
(b) Departmental debt collection regulations. Except as modified by this subpart, collection of debts arising out of the Title I program is subject to the Department’s debt collection regulations in subpart C of 24 CFR part 17.
§ 201.61 Claims against debtors – principal amount of debt.
(a) Liability. A debtor is liable to the Secretary for the principal amount of the debt, as described in paragraphs (b), (c), or (d) of this section, as appropriate.
(b) Property improvement notes. In the case of an assigned note for a property improvement loan, the principal amount of the debt is the unpaid amount of the loan obligation, as defined in § 201.55(a)(1) of this part, plus amounts described in §§ 201.55(a) (3), (4), (5).
(c) Manufactured home notes. In the case of an assigned note for a manufactured home loan, the principal amount of the debt is the unpaid amount of the loan obligation, as defined in § 201.55(b)(1) of this part, plus amounts described in §§ 201.55(b) (3) through (8).
(d) Assigned judgments. In the case of a judgment obtained by the lender on a property improvement loan or a manufactured home loan and assigned to the Secretary, the principal amount of the debt is the amount of the judgment.
§ 201.62 Claims against debtors – interest, penalties, and administrative costs.
(a) Interest. In addition to the principal amount of the debt, the debtor is liable for the payment of interest. Interest accrues on the principal amount of the debt as of the date of default, as defined in § 201.2(h) of this part, as follows:
(1) In the case of a debt based upon the assignment of a defaulted note, interest is assessed at the lesser of the rate specified in the note or the United States Treasury’s current value of funds rate in effect on the date the Title I insurance claim was paid.
(2) In the case of a debt based upon the assignment of a judgment, interest is assessed at the lesser of the rate specified in the judgment or the United States Treasury’s current value of funds rate in effect on the date the Title I insurance claim was paid.
(b) Penalties and administrative costs. The Secretary shall assess reasonable administrative costs and penalties as authorized in 31 U.S.C. 3717, unless there is no provision in the note providing for such charges and the debtor has not otherwise consented to liability for such charges.
§ 201.63 Claims against lenders.
Claims against lenders for money owed to the Department, including unpaid insurance charges and unpaid repurchase demands, shall be collected in accordance with 24 CFR part 17, subpart C.
PART 202 – APPROVAL OF LENDING INSTITUTIONS AND MORTGAGEES
Subpart A – General Requirements
§ 202.1 Purpose.
This part establishes minimum standards and requirements for approval by the Secretary of lenders and mortgagees to participate in the Title I and Title II programs.
§ 202.2 Definitions.
Act means the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1702 et seq.).
Claim means a single family insured mortgage for which the Secretary pays an insurance claim within 24 months after the mortgage is insured.
Default means a single family insured mortgage in default for 90 or more days within 24 months after the mortgage is insured.
Lender or Title I lender means a financial institution that:
(a) Holds a valid Title I Contract of Insurance and is approved by the Secretary under this part as a supervised lender under § 202.6, a nonsupervised lender under § 202.7, an investing lender under § 202.9, or a governmental or similar institution under § 202.10; or
(b) Is under suspension or held a Title I contract that has been terminated but remains responsible for servicing or selling Title I loans that it holds and is authorized to file insurance claims on such loans.
Loan or Title I loan means a loan authorized for insurance under Title I of the Act.
Mortgage, Title II mortgage or insured mortgage means a mortgage or loan insured under Title II or Title XI of the Act.
Mortgagee or Title II mortgagee means a mortgage lender that is approved to participate in the Title II programs as a supervised mortgagee under § 202.6, a nonsupervised mortgagee under § 202.7, an investing mortgagee under § 202.9, or a governmental or similar institution under 202.10.
Multifamily mortgagee means a mortgagee approved to participate only in multifamily Title II programs, except that for purposes of § 202.8(b)(1) the term also means a mortgagee approved to participate in both single family and multifamily Title II programs.
Normal rate means the rate of defaults and claims on insured mortgages for the geographic area served by a HUD field office, or other area designated by the Secretary, in which a mortgagee originates mortgages.
Origination approval agreement means the Secretary’s agreement that a mortgagee is approved to originate single family insured mortgages.
Title I program(s) means an insurance program or programs authorized by Title I of the Act.
Title II program(s) means an insurance program or programs authorized by Title II or Title XI of the Act.
§ 202.3 Approval status for lenders and mortgagees.
(a) Initial approval. A lender or mortgagee may be approved for participation in the Title I or Title II programs upon filing a request for approval on a form prescribed by the Secretary and signed by the applicant. The approval form shall be accompanied by such documentation as may be prescribed by the Secretary.
(1) Approval is signified by:
(i) The Secretary’s agreement that the lender or mortgagee is considered approved under the Title I or Title II programs, except as otherwise ordered by the Mortgagee Review Board or an officer or subdivision of the Department to which the Mortgagee Review Board has delegated its power, unless the lender or mortgagee voluntarily relinquishes its approval;
(ii) Consent by the lender or mortgagee to comply at all times with the general approval requirements of § 202.5, and with additional requirements governing the particular class of lender or mortgagee for which it was approved as described under subpart B at §§ 202.6 through 202.10; and
(iii) Under the Title I program, the issuance of a Contract of Insurance constitutes an agreement between the Secretary and the lender and which governs participation in the Title I program.
(2) Limitations on approval:
(i) Separate approval as lender or mortgagee is required for participation in the Title I or Title II programs, respectively. Application must be made, and approval will be granted, on the basis of one or both categories of programs, as is appropriate.
(ii) Separate approval as mortgagee is required for the Single Family Mortgage Insurance Programs and for the Multifamily Mortgage Insurance Programs. Application must be made, and approval will be granted, on the basis of either or both categories, as is appropriate.
(iii) In addition to the requirements for approval as a Title II mortgagee, the Secretary may from time to time issue eligibility requirements for participation in specific programs, such as the Direct Endorsement program.
(iv) A Title II mortgagee may be approved to operate either on a nationwide basis or on a geographically restricted basis in only those areas designated by the Secretary.
(v) A Title I lender may originate loans or purchase advances of credit only within a geographic lending area approved by the Secretary. Expansion of this lending area shall be subject to a determination by the Secretary that the lender is able to originate loans in compliance with part 201 of this chapter within such expanded area.
(3) Authorized agents. A mortgagee approved under §§ 202.6, 202.7, or 202.10 as a nonsupervised mortgagee, supervised mortgagee, or governmental or similar institution approved as a Direct Endorsement mortgagee under 24 CFR 203.3 may, with the approval of the Secretary, designate a nonsupervised or supervised mortgagee with Direct Endorsement approval under 24 CFR 203.3 as authorized agent for the purpose of underwriting loans. The application for mortgage insurance may be submitted in the name of the FHA-approved mortgagee or its designated authorized agent under this paragraph.
(b) Recertification. On each anniversary of the approval of a lender or mortgagee, the Secretary will determine whether recertification, i.e., continued approval, is appropriate. The Secretary will review the yearly verification report required by § 202.5(m) and other pertinent documents, ascertain that all application and annual fees have been paid, and request any further information needed to decide upon recertification.
(c) Termination – (1) Termination of the Title I Contract of Insurance – (i) Notice. A Contract of Insurance may be terminated in accordance with its terms by the Secretary or by the Secretary’s designee upon giving the lender at least 5 days prior written notice.
(ii) Informal meeting. If requested, and before expiration of the 5-day notice period, a lender shall be entitled to an informal meeting with the Department official taking action to terminate the Contract of Insurance.
(iii) Effect of termination. Termination of a Contract of Insurance shall not affect:
(A) The Department’s obligation to provide insurance coverage with respect to eligible loans originated before the termination, unless there was fraud or misrepresentation;
(B) A lender’s obligation to continue to pay insurance charges or premiums and meet all other obligations, including servicing, associated with eligible loans originated before termination; or
(C) A lender’s right to apply for and be granted a new Title I Contract of Insurance, provided that the requirements for approval under this part are met.
(2) Credit Watch Termination – (i) Scope and frequency of review. The Secretary will review, on an ongoing basis, the number of defaults and claims on mortgages originated, underwritten, or both, by each mortgagee in the geographic area served by a HUD field office. HUD will make this rate information available to mortgagees and the public through electronic means and will issue instructions for accessing this information through a Mortgagee Letter. For this purpose, and for all purposes under paragraph (c) of this section, a mortgage is considered to be originated in the same federal fiscal year in which its amortization commences. The Secretary may also review the insured mortgage performance of a mortgagee’s branch offices individually and may terminate the authority of the branch or the authority of the mortgagee’s overall operation.
(ii) Credit Watch Status. Mortgagees are responsible for monitoring their default and claim rate performance. A mortgagee is considered to be on Credit Watch Status if, at any time, the mortgagee has a rate of defaults and claims on insured mortgages originated, underwritten, or both, in an area which exceeds 150 percent of the normal rate and its origination approval agreement has not been terminated.
(iii) Notice of termination – (A) Notice of termination of origination approval agreement. The Secretary may notify a mortgagee that its origination approval agreement will terminate 60 days after notice is given, if the mortgagee had a rate of defaults and claims on insured mortgages originated in an area which exceeded 200 percent of the normal rate and exceeded the national default and claim rate for insured mortgages.
(B) Notice of termination of direct endorsement approval. The Secretary may notify a mortgagee that its direct endorsement approval under 24 CFR part 203 will terminate 60 days after notice is given, if the mortgagee had a rate of defaults and claims on insured mortgages underwritten in an area which exceeded 200 percent of the normal rate and exceeded the national default and claim rate for insured mortgages. The termination of a mortgagee’s direct endorsement approval pursuant to this section is separate and apart from the termination of a mortgagee’s direct endorsement approval under 24 CFR part 203.
(C) No need for prior action by Mortgagee Review Board. The termination notices described in paragraphs (c)(2)(ii)(A) and (B) of this section may be given without prior action by the Mortgagee Review Board.
(D) Underserved areas. Before the Secretary sends the termination notice, the Secretary shall review the Census tract concentrations of the defaults and claims. If the Secretary determines that the excessive rate is the result of mortgage lending in underserved areas, as defined in 24 CFR 81.2, the Secretary may determine not to terminate the mortgagee’s origination approval agreement and/or direct endorsement approval.
(iv) Request for informal conference. Prior to termination the mortgagee may submit a written request for an informal conference with the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Single Family Housing or that official’s designee. HUD must receive the written request no later than 30 calendar days after the date of the proposed termination notice. Unless HUD grants an extension, the informal conference must be held no later than 60 calendar days after the date of the proposed termination notice. After considering relevant reasons and factors beyond the mortgagee’s control that contributed to the excessive default and claim rates, the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Single Family Housing or designee may withdraw the termination notice.
(v) Limitation on the establishment of new branches. Upon receipt of a proposed termination notice of its origination approval agreement, the mortgagee shall not establish a new branch or new branches for the origination of FHA-insured mortgages in the area or areas that are covered by the proposed termination notice. As of January 18, 2005, a mortgagee that is in receipt of a notice of proposed termination may not establish any new branch in the location or locations cited in the proposed termination notice until either:
(A) The proposed termination notice is withdrawn or
(B) The Secretary reinstates the mortgagee’s origination approval agreement, in accordance with paragraph (e) of this section.
(vi) Effects of termination – (A) Termination of origination approval agreement. If a mortgagee’s origination approval agreement is terminated, it may not originate single family insured mortgages unless the origination approval agreement is reinstated by the Secretary in accordance with paragraph (e) of this section, notwithstanding any other provision of this part except § 202.3(c)(2)(vii)(A).
(B) Termination of direct endorsement approval. If a mortgagee’s direct endorsement approval is terminated, it may not underwrite single family insured mortgages for the area(s) identified in the termination notice, unless the direct endorsement approval is reinstated by the Secretary in accordance with paragraph (e) of this section, notwithstanding any other provision of this part except § 202.3(c)(2)(vii)(A).
(vii) Rights and obligations in the event of termination. Termination of the origination approval agreement and/or direct endorsement approval shall not affect:
(A) The eligibility of the mortgage for insurance, absent fraud or misrepresentation, if the mortgagor and all terms and conditions of the mortgage had been approved before the termination by the Direct Endorsement or Lender Insurance mortgagee or were covered by a firm commitment issued by the Secretary; however, no other mortgages originated or underwritten after the date of termination by the mortgagee shall be insured unless the mortgagee’s origination approval agreement and/or direct endorsement approval is reinstated by the Secretary;
(B) The right of a mortgagee whose direct endorsement approval has been terminated to transfer cases to another mortgagee with direct endorsement approval for the area covered by the termination.
(C) A mortgagee’s obligation to continue to pay insurance premiums and meet all other obligations, including servicing, associated with insured mortgages;
(D) A mortgagee’s right to apply for reinstatement of the origination approval agreement and/or direct endorsement approval in accordance with paragraph (e) of this section; or
(E) A mortgagee’s right to purchase insured mortgages or to service its own portfolio or the portfolios of other mortgagees with which it has a servicing contract.
(d) Withdrawal and suspension of approval. Lender or mortgagee approval may be suspended or withdrawn by the Mortgagee Review Board as provided in part 25 of this title.
(e) Reinstatement – (1) General. A mortgagee whose origination approval agreement and/or direct endorsement approval has been terminated under paragraph (c) of this section may apply for reinstatement if:
(i) The origination approval agreement and/or direct endorsement approval for the affected branch or branches has been terminated for at least six months; and
(ii) The mortgagee continues to be an approved mortgagee meeting the general standards of § 202.5 and the specific requirements of §§ 202.6, 202.7, 202.8 or 202.10, and 202.12.
(2) Application for reinstatement. The mortgagee’s application for reinstatement must:
(i) Be in a format prescribed by the Secretary and signed by the mortgagee;
(ii) Be accompanied by an independent analysis of the terminated office’s operations and identifying the underlying cause of the mortgagee’s unacceptable default and claim rate. The independent analysis must be prepared by an independent Certified Public Accountant (CPA) qualified to perform audits under the government auditing standards issued by the General Accounting Office; and
(iii) Be accompanied by a corrective action plan addressing each of the issues identified in the independent analysis described in paragraph (e)(2)(ii) of this section, along with evidence demonstrating that the mortgagee has implemented the corrective action plan.
(3) HUD action on reinstatement application. The Secretary will grant the mortgagee’s application for reinstatement if the mortgagee’s application is complete and the Secretary determines that the underlying causes for the termination have been satisfactorily remedied.
§ 202.4 Request for determination of compliance.
Pursuant to section 539(a) of the Act, any person may file a request that the Secretary determine whether a lender or mortgagee is in compliance with § 202.12(a) or with provisions of this chapter implementing sections 223(a)(7) and 535 of the Act such as §§ 201.10(g), 203.18d and 203.43(c)(5) of this chapter (only section 535 applies to lenders). The request for determination shall be made to the following address: Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Lender Activities and Program Compliance, 451 Seventh Street SW., Washington, DC, 20410. The Secretary shall inform the requestor of the disposition of the request. The Secretary shall publish in the
§ 202.5 General approval standards.
To be approved for participation in the Title I or Title II programs, and to maintain approval, a lender or mortgagee shall meet and continue to meet the general requirements of paragraphs (a) through (n) of this section (except as provided in § 202.10(b)) and the requirements for one of the eligible classes of lenders or mortgagees in §§ 202.6 through 202.10.
(a) Business form. (1) The lender or mortgagee shall be a corporation or other chartered institution, a permanent organization having succession, or a partnership. A partnership must meet the requirements of paragraphs (a)(1)(i) through (iv) of this section.
(i) Each general partner must be a corporation or other chartered institution consisting of two or more persons.
(ii) One general partner must be designated as the managing general partner. The managing general partner shall comply with the requirements of paragraphs (b), (c), and (f) of this section. The managing general partner must have as its principal activity the management of one or more partnerships, all of which are mortgage lenders or property improvement or manufactured home lenders, and must have exclusive authority to deal directly with the Secretary on behalf of each partnership. Newly admitted partners must agree to the management of the partnership by the designated managing general partner. If the managing general partner withdraws or is removed from the partnership for any reason, a new managing general partner shall be substituted, and the Secretary shall be immediately notified of the substitution.
(iii) The partnership agreement shall specify that the partnership shall exist for the minimum term of years required by the Secretary. All insured mortgages and Title I loans held by the partnership shall be transferred to a lender or mortgagee approved under this part prior to the termination of the partnership. The partnership shall be specifically authorized to continue its existence if a partner withdraws.
(iv) The Secretary must be notified immediately of any amendments to the partnership agreement that would affect the partnership’s actions under the Title I or Title II programs.
(2) Use of business name. The lender or mortgagee must use its HUD-registered business name in all advertisements and promotional materials related to FHA programs. HUD-registered business names include any alias or “doing business as” (DBA) on file with FHA. The lender or mortgagee must keep copies of all print and electronic advertisements and promotional materials for a period of 2 years from the date that the materials are circulated or used to advertise.
(3) Non-FHA-approved entities. A lender or mortgagee that accepts a loan application from a non-FHA-approved entity must confirm that the entity’s legal name and Tax ID number are included in the FHA loan origination system record for the subject loan. The loan to be insured by FHA must be underwritten by the FHA-approved lender or mortgagee.
(b) Employees. The lender or mortgagee shall employ competent personnel trained to perform their assigned responsibilities in consumer or mortgage lending, including origination, servicing, and collection activities, and shall maintain adequate staff and facilities to originate and service mortgages or Title I loans, in accordance with applicable regulations, to the extent the mortgagee or lender engages in such activities.
(c) Officers. All employees who will sign applications for mortgage insurance on behalf of the mortgagee or report loans for insurance shall be corporate officers or shall otherwise be authorized to bind the lender or mortgagee in the origination transaction. The lender or mortgagee shall ensure that an authorized person reports all originations, purchases, and sales of Title I loans or Title II mortgages to the Secretary for the purpose of obtaining or transferring insurance coverage.
(d) Escrows. The lender or mortgagee shall not use escrow funds for any purpose other than that for which they were received. It shall segregate escrow commitment deposits, work completion deposits, and all periodic payments received under loans or insured mortgages on account of ground rents, taxes, assessments, and insurance charges or premiums, and shall deposit such funds with one or more financial institutions in a special account or accounts that are fully insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or the National Credit Union Administration, except as otherwise provided in writing by the Secretary.
(e) Servicing. A lender shall service or arrange for servicing of the loan in accordance with the requirements of 24 CFR part 201. A mortgagee shall service or arrange for servicing of the mortgage in accordance with the servicing responsibilities contained in subpart C of 24 CFR part 203 and in 24 CFR part 207, with all other applicable regulations contained in this title, and with such additional conditions and requirements as the Secretary may impose.
(f) Business changes. The lender or mortgagee shall provide prompt notification to the Secretary, in such form as prescribed by the Secretary, of:
(1) All changes in its legal structure, including, but not limited to, mergers, terminations, name, location, control of ownership, and character of business; and
(2) Any officer, partner, director, principal, manager, supervisor, loan processor, loan underwriter, loan originator, of the lender or mortgagee, or the lender or mortgagee itself, that is subject to one or more of the sanctions in paragraph (j) of this section.
(g) Financial statements. The lender or mortgagee shall:
(1) Furnish to the Secretary a copy of its audited financial statements within 90 days of its fiscal year end, except as provided in § 202.6(c);
(2) Furnish such other information as the Secretary may request; and
(3) Submit to an examination of that portion of its records that relates to its Title I and/or Title II program activities.
(h) Quality control plan. The lender or mortgagee shall implement a written quality control plan, acceptable to the Secretary, that assures compliance with the regulations and other issuances of the Secretary regarding loan or mortgage origination and servicing.
(i) Fees. The lender or mortgagee, unless approved under § 202.10, shall pay an application fee and annual fees, including additional fees for each branch office authorized to originate Title I loans or submit applications for mortgage insurance, at such times and in such amounts as the Secretary may require. The Secretary may identify additional classes or groups of lenders or mortgagees that may be exempt from one or more of these fees.
(j) Ineligibility. For a lender or mortgagee to be eligible for FHA approval, neither the lender or mortgagee, nor any officer, partner, director, principal, manager, supervisor, loan processor, loan underwriter, or loan originator of the lender or mortgagee shall:
(1) Be suspended, debarred, under a limited denial of participation (LDP), or otherwise restricted under 2 CFR part 2424 or 24 CFR part 25, or under similar procedures of any other federal agency;
(2) Be indicted for, or have been convicted of, an offense that reflects adversely upon the integrity, competency, or fitness to meet the responsibilities of the lender or mortgagee to participate in the Title I or Title II programs;
(3) Be subject to unresolved findings as a result of HUD or other governmental audit, investigation, or review;
(4) Be engaged in business practices that do not conform to generally accepted practices of prudent mortgagees or that demonstrate irresponsibility;
(5) Be convicted of, or have pled guilty or nolo contendere to, a felony related to participation in the real estate or mortgage loan industry:
(i) During the 7-year period preceding the date of the application for licensing and registration; or
(ii) At any time preceding such date of application, if such felony involved an act of fraud, dishonesty, or a breach of trust or money laundering;
(6) Be in violation of provisions of the Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Mortgage Licensing Act of 2008 (12 U.S.C. 5101 et seq.) or any applicable provision of state law; or
(7) Be in violation of any other requirement established by the Secretary.
(k) Branch offices. A lender may, upon approval by the Secretary, maintain branch offices for the origination of Title I or Title II loans. A branch office of a mortgagee must be registered with the Department in order to originate mortgages or submit applications for mortgage insurance. The lender or mortgagee shall remain fully responsible to the Secretary for the actions of its branch offices.
(l) Conflict of interest and responsibility. A mortgagee may not pay anything of value, directly or indirectly, in connection with any insured mortgage transaction or transactions to any person or entity if such person or entity has received any other consideration from the mortgagor, seller, builder, or any other person for services related to such transactions or related to the purchase or sale of the mortgaged property, except that consideration, approved by the Secretary, may be paid for services actually performed. The mortgagee shall not pay a referral fee to any person or organization.
(m) Reports. Each lender and mortgagee must submit an annual certification on a form prescribed by the Secretary. Upon application for approval and with each annual recertification, each lender and mortgagee must submit a certification that it has not been refused a license and has not been sanctioned by any state or states in which it will originate insured mortgages or Title I loans. In addition, each mortgagee shall file the following:
(1) An audited or unaudited financial statement, within 30 days of the end of each fiscal quarter in which the mortgagee experiences an operating loss of 20 percent of its net worth, and until the mortgagee demonstrates an operating profit for 2 consecutive quarters or until the next recertification, whichever is the longer period; and
(2) A statement of net worth within 30 days of the commencement of voluntary or involuntary bankruptcy, conservatorship, receivership, or any transfer of control to a federal or state supervisory agency.
(n) Net worth – (1) Applicability. The requirements of this section apply to approved supervised and nonsupervised lenders and mortgagees under § 202.6 and § 202.7, and approved investing lenders and mortgagees under § 202.9. For ease of reference, these institutions are referred to as “approved lenders and mortgagees” for purposes of this section. The requirements of this section also apply to applicants for FHA approval under §§ 202.6, 202.7, and 202.9. For ease of reference, these entities are referred to as “applicants” for purposes of this section.
(2) Phased-in net worth requirements for 2010 and 2011 – (i) Applicants. Effective on May 20, 2010, applicants shall comply with the net worth requirements set forth in paragraph (n)(2)(iii) of this section.
(ii) Approved mortgagees. Effective on May 20, 2011, each approved lender or mortgagee with FHA approval as of May 20, 2010 shall comply with the net worth requirements set forth in paragraphs (n)(2)(iii) or (n)(2)(iv) of this section, as applicable.
(iii) Net worth requirements for non-small businesses. Each approved lender or mortgagee that exceeds the size standard for its industry classification established by the Small Business Administration at 13 CFR 121.201 Sector 52 (Finance and Insurance), Subsector 522 (Credit Intermediation and Related Activities) shall have a required minimum net worth of not less than $1,000,000. No less than 20 percent of the approved lender or mortgagee’s required minimum net worth must be liquid assets consisting of cash or its equivalent acceptable to the Secretary.
(iv) Net worth requirements for small businesses. Each approved lender or mortgagee that meets the size standard for its industry classification established by the Small Business Administration at 13 CFR 121.201 Sector 52 (Finance and Insurance), Subsector 522 (Credit Intermediation and Related Activities) shall have a required minimum net worth of not less than $500,000. No less than 20 percent of the approved lender or mortgagee’s required minimum net worth must be liquid assets consisting of cash or its equivalent acceptable to the Secretary. If, based on the audited financial statement or other financial report that is required to be prepared at the end of its fiscal year and provided to HUD at the commencement of the new fiscal year, an approved lender or mortgagee no longer meets the Small Business Administration size standard for its industry classification, the approved lender or mortgagee shall meet the net worth requirements set forth in paragraph (n)(2)(iii) of this section for a non-small business approved lender or mortgagee by the last day of the fiscal year in which the audited financial statement or other financial report, as applicable, was submitted.
(3) Net worth requirements for 2013 and subsequent years. Effective May 20, 2013:
(i) Irrespective of size, each applicant and each approved lender or mortgagee, for participation solely under the FHA single family programs, shall have a net worth of not less than $1 million, plus an additional net worth of one percent of the total volume in excess of $25 million of FHA single family insured mortgages originated, underwritten, purchased, or serviced during the prior fiscal year, up to a maximum required net worth of $2.5 million. No less than 20 percent of the applicant’s or approved lender or mortgagee’s required net worth must be liquid assets consisting of cash or its equivalent acceptable to the Secretary.
(ii) Multifamily net worth requirements. Irrespective of size, each applicant for approval and each approved lender or mortgagee for participation solely under the FHA multifamily programs shall have a minimum net worth of not less than $1 million. For those multifamily approved lenders or mortgagees that also engage in mortgage servicing, an additional net worth of one percent of the total volume in excess of $25 million of FHA multifamily mortgages originated, purchased, or serviced during the prior fiscal year, up to a maximum required net worth of $2.5 million, is required. For multifamily approved lenders or mortgagees that do not perform mortgage servicing, an additional net worth of one half of one percent of the total volume in excess of $25 million of FHA multifamily mortgages originated during the prior fiscal year, up to a maximum required net worth of $2.5 million, is required. No less than 20 percent of the applicant’s or approved lender’s or mortgagee’s required net worth must be liquid assets consisting of cash or its equivalent acceptable to the Secretary.
(iii) Dual participation net worth requirements. Irrespective of size, each applicant for approval and each approved lender or mortgagee that is a participant in both FHA single-family and multifamily programs must meet the net worth requirements as set forth in paragraph (n)(3)(i) of this section.
Subpart B – Classes of Lenders and Mortgagees
§ 202.6 Supervised lenders and mortgagees.
(a) Definition. A supervised lender or mortgagee is a financial institution that is a member of the Federal Reserve System or an institution whose accounts are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or the National Credit Union Administration. A supervised mortgagee may submit applications for mortgage insurance. A supervised lender or mortgagee may originate, purchase, hold, service or sell loans or insured mortgages, respectively.
(b) Additional requirements. In addition to the general approval requirements in § 202.5, a supervised lender or mortgagee shall meet the following requirements:
(1) Net worth. The net worth requirements appear in § 202.5(n).
(2) Notification. A lender or mortgagee shall promptly notify the Secretary in the event of termination of its supervision by its supervising agency.
(3) Fidelity bond. A Title II mortgagee shall have fidelity bond coverage and errors and omissions insurance acceptable to the Secretary and in an amount required by the Secretary, or have alternative insurance coverage, approved by the Secretary, that assures the faithful performance of the responsibilities of the mortgagee.
(4) Audit report. Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, a lender or mortgagee must:
(i) Comply with the financial reporting requirements in 24 CFR part 5, subpart H. Audit reports shall be based on audits performed by a certified public accountant, or by an independent public accountant licensed by a regulatory authority of a State or other political subdivision of the United States on or before December 31, 1970, and shall include:
(A) Financial statements in a form acceptable to the Secretary, including a balance sheet and a statement of operations and retained earnings, a statement of cash flows, an analysis of the lender’s or mortgagee’s net worth adjusted to reflect only assets acceptable to the Secretary, and an analysis of escrow funds; and
(B) Such other financial information as the Secretary may require to determine the accuracy and validity of the audit report.
(ii) Submit a report on compliance tests prescribed by the Secretary.
(c) Financial statement requirements for small supervised lenders and mortgagees – (1) Definitions. For the purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:
(i) Federal banking agency means the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System; the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation; and the National Credit Union Administration; or any successor agency thereof.
(ii) Small supervised lender or mortgagee means a supervised lender or mortgagee possessing consolidated assets below the threshold for required audited financial reporting as established by the federal banking agency that is responsible for the oversight of that supervised lender or mortgagee.
(2) Financial statement requirements. Small supervised lenders and mortgagees shall not be subject to the requirement to submit a copy of an audited financial statement under § 202.5(g) and the audit report requirements under paragraph (b)(4) of this section. Small supervised lenders and mortgagees are required, within 90 days of their fiscal year end, to furnish to the Secretary the unaudited financial regulatory report – a consolidated or fourth quarter Report of Condition and Income (Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council forms 031 and 041, also known as the “Call Report”), a consolidated or fourth quarter Thrift Financial Report, or a consolidated or fourth quarter NCUA Call Report (NCUA Form 5300 or 5310), or such other financial regulatory report as may be required – that aligns with the small supervised lender’s or mortgagee’s fiscal year end and that the small supervised lender or mortgagee is required to submit to their respective federal banking agency.
(3) Requirement for audited financial statement and other information based on determination of heightened risk to the FHA insurance fund. If the Secretary determines that a small supervised lender or mortgagee poses a heightened risk to the FHA insurance fund, the lender or mortgagee must provide, upon request, additional financial documentation, up to and including an audited financial statement, and other information as the Secretary determines necessary. The Secretary may determine that a small supervised lender or mortgagee poses a heightened risk to the FHA insurance fund based upon, but not limited to, one or more of the following factors:
(i) Failing to provide required financial submissions under § 202.6(c)(2) within the required 90-day period following the lender’s or mortgagee’s fiscal year end;
(ii) Maintaining insufficient adjusted net worth or unrestricted liquid assets as required by § 202.5(n);
(iii) Reporting opening cash and equity balances that do not agree with the prior year’s reported cash and equity balances;
(iv) Experiencing an operating loss of 20 percent or greater of the lender’s or mortgagee’s net worth for the annual reporting period as governed by § 202.5(m)(1);
(v) Experiencing an increase in loan volume over the prior 12-month period, determined by the Secretary to be significant;
(vi) Undertaking significant changes to business operations, such as a merger or acquisition; and
(vii) Other factors that the Secretary considers appropriate in indicating a heightened risk to the FHA insurance fund.
§ 202.7 Nonsupervised lenders and mortgagees.
(a) Definition. A nonsupervised lender or mortgagee is a lending institution which has as its principal activity the lending or investing of funds in real estate mortgages, consumer installment notes, or similar advances of credit, or the purchase of consumer installment contracts, and which is not approved under any other section of this part. A nonsupervised mortgagee may submit applications for mortgage insurance. A nonsupervised lender or mortgagee may originate, purchase, hold, service or sell insured loans or mortgages, respectively.
(b) Additional requirements. In addition to the general approval requirements in § 202.5, a nonsupervised lender or mortgagee shall meet the following requirements:
(1) Net worth and liquid assets. The net worth and liquidity requirements appear in § 202.5(n).
(2) Credit source – (i) Title I. A lender shall have and maintain a reliable warehouse line of credit or other funding program acceptable to the Secretary of not less than $500,000 for use in originating or purchasing Title I loans.
(ii) Title II. Except for multifamily mortgagees, a mortgagee shall have a warehouse line of credit or other mortgage funding program acceptable to the Secretary which is adequate to fund the mortgagee’s average 60 day origination operations, but in no event shall the warehouse line of credit or funding program be less than $1,000,000.
(3) Audit report. (i) A lender or mortgagee must comply with the financial reporting requirements in 24 CFR part 5, subpart H. Audit reports shall be based on audits performed by a certified public accountant, or by an independent public accountant licensed by a regulatory authority of a State or other political subdivision of the United States on or before December 31, 1970, and shall include:
(A) A financial statement in a form acceptable to the Secretary, including a balance sheet and a statement of operations and retained earnings, a statement of cash flows, an analysis of the mortgagee’s net worth adjusted to reflect only assets acceptable to the Secretary, and an analysis of escrow funds; and
(B) Such other financial information as the Secretary may require to determine the accuracy and validity of the audit report.
(ii) A mortgagee must submit a report on compliance tests prescribed by the Secretary.
(4) Fidelity bond. A Title II mortgagee shall have fidelity bond coverage and errors and omissions insurance acceptable to the Secretary and in an amount required by the Secretary, or alternative insurance coverage approved by the Secretary, that assures the faithful performance of the responsibilities of the mortgagee.
§ 202.8 Sponsored third-party originators.
(a) Definitions – Sponsor. (1) With respect to Title I programs, a sponsor is a lender that holds a valid Title I Contract of Insurance and meets the net worth requirement for the class of lender to which it belongs.
(2) With respect to Title II programs, a sponsor is a mortgagee that holds a valid origination approval agreement, is approved to participate in the Direct Endorsement program, and meets the net worth requirement for the class of mortgagee to which it belongs.
(3) Each sponsor shall be responsible to the Secretary for the actions of its sponsored third-party originators or mortgagees in originating loans or mortgages, unless applicable law or regulation requires specific knowledge on the part of the party to be held responsible. If specific knowledge is required, the Secretary will presume that a sponsor has knowledge of the actions of its sponsored third-party originators or mortgagees in originating loans or mortgages and the sponsor is responsible for those actions unless it can rebut the presumption with affirmative evidence.
Sponsored third-party originator. A sponsored third-party originator may hold a Title I Contract of Insurance or Title II Origination Approval Agreement if it is an FHA-approved lender or mortgagee. If the sponsored third-party originator is not an FHA-approved lender or mortgagee, then the sponsored third-party originator may not hold a Title I Contract of Insurance or Title II Origination Approval Agreement. A sponsored third-party originator is authorized to originate Title I direct loans or Title II mortgage loans for sale or transfer to a sponsor or sponsors, as defined in this section, that holds a valid Title I Contract of Insurance or Title II Origination Approval Agreement and is not under suspension, subject to the sponsor determining that the third-party originator has met the eligibility criteria of paragraph (b) of this section.
(b) Eligibility to originate loans to be insured by FHA. A sponsored third-party originator may originate loans to be insured by FHA, provided that:
(1) The sponsored third-party originator is working with and through an FHA-approved lender or mortgagee; and
(2) The sponsored third-party originator or an officer, partner, director, principal, manager, supervisor, loan processor, or loan originator of the sponsored third-party originator has not been subject to the sanctions or administrative actions listed in § 202.5(j), as determined and verified by the FHA-approved lender or mortgagee.
§ 202.9 Investing lenders and mortgagees.
(a) Definition. An investing lender or mortgagee is an organization that is not approved under any other section of this part. An investing lender or mortgagee may purchase, hold or sell Title I loans or Title II mortgages, respectively, but may not originate Title I loans or Title II mortgages in its own name or submit applications for the insurance of mortgages. An investing lender or mortgagee may not service Title I loans or Title II mortgages without prior approval of the Secretary.
(b) Additional requirements. In addition to the general approval requirements in § 202.5, an investing lender or mortgagee shall meet the following requirements:
(1) Funding arrangements. An investing lender or mortgagee shall have, or have made arrangements for, funds sufficient to support a projected investment of at least $1,000,000 in property improvement, manufactured home or real estate loans or mortgages.
(2) Officers and staff. In lieu of the staffing and facilities requirements in § 202.5(b), an investing lender or mortgagee shall have officers or employees who are capable of managing its activities in purchasing, holding, and selling Title I loans or Title II mortgages.
(3) Fidelity bond. An investing mortgagee shall maintain fidelity bond coverage and errors and omissions insurance acceptable to the Secretary and in an amount required by the Secretary, or alternative insurance coverage approved by the Secretary, that assures the faithful performance of the responsibilities of the mortgagee.
§ 202.10 Governmental institutions, Government-sponsored enterprises, public housing agencies and State housing agencies.
(a) Definition. A Federal, State or municipal governmental agency, a Federal Reserve Bank, a Federal Home Loan Bank, the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, or the Federal National Mortgage Association may be an approved lender or mortgagee. A mortgagee approved under this section may submit applications for Title II mortgage insurance. A lender or mortgagee approved under this section may originate, purchase, service or sell Title I loans and insured mortgages, respectively. A mortgagee or lender approved under this section is not required to meet a net worth requirement. A mortgagee shall maintain fidelity bond coverage and errors and omissions insurance acceptable to the Secretary and in an amount required by the Secretary, or alternative insurance coverage approved by the Secretary, that assures the faithful performance of the responsibilities of the mortgagee. There are no additional requirements beyond the general approval requirements in § 202.5 or as provided under paragraph (b) of this section.
(b) Public housing agencies and State housing agencies. Under such terms and conditions as the Secretary may prescribe and notwithstanding the general requirements of § 202.5 or the requirements of paragraph (a) of this section, a public housing agency or its instrumentality or a State housing agency may be approved as a mortgagee for the purpose of originating and holding multifamily mortgages funded by issuance of tax exempt obligations by the agency.
(c) Audit requirements. The insuring of loans and mortgages under the Act constitutes “Federal financial assistance” (as defined in 2 CFR 200.40) for purposes of audit requirements set out in 2 CFR part 200, subpart F. Non-Federal entities (as defined in 2 CFR 200.69) that receive insurance as lenders and mortgagees shall conduct audits in accordance with 2 CFR part 200, subpart F.
Subpart C – Title I and Title II Specific Requirements
§ 202.11 Title I.
(a) Types of administrative action. In addition to termination of the Contract of Insurance, certain sanctions may be imposed under the Title I program. The administrative actions that may be applied are set forth in 24 CFR part 25. Civil money penalties may be imposed against Title I lenders and mortgagees pursuant to 24 CFR part 30.
(b) Grounds for action. Administrative actions shall be based upon both the grounds set forth in 24 CFR part 25 and as follows:
(1) Failure to properly supervise and monitor dealers under the provisions of part 201 of this title;
(2) Exhaustion of the general insurance reserve established under part 201 of this title;
(3) Maintenance of a Title I claims/loan ratio representing an unacceptable risk to the Department; or
(4) Transfer of a Title I loan to a party that does not have a valid Title I Contract of Insurance.
§ 202.12 Title II.
(a) Tiered pricing – (1) General requirements – (i) Prohibition against excess variation. The customary lending practices of a mortgagee for its single family insured mortgages shall not provide for a variation in mortgage charge rates that exceed 2 percentage points. A variation is determined as provided in paragraph (a)(6) of this section.
(ii) Customary lending practices. The customary lending practices of a mortgagee include all single family insured mortgages originated by the mortgagee, including mortgages that were originated by the mortgagee’s sponsored third-party originator(s).
(iii) Basis for permissible variations. Any variations in the mortgage charge rate up to two percentage points under the mortgagee’s customary lending practices must be based on actual variations in fees or cost to the mortgagee to make the mortgage loan, which shall be determined after accounting for the value of servicing rights generated by making the loan and other income to the mortgagee related to the loan. Fees or costs must be fully documented for each specific loan.
(2) Area. For purposes of this section, an area is:
(i) An area used by HUD for purposes of § 203.18(a) of this chapter to determine the median 1-family house price for an area; or
(ii) The area served by a HUD field office but excluding any area included in paragraph (a)(2)(i) of this section.
(3) Mortgage charges. Mortgage charges include any charges under the mortgagee’s control and not collected for the benefit of third parties. Examples are interest, discount points and origination fees.
(4) Interest rate. Whenever a mortgagee offers a particular interest rate for a mortgage type in an area, it may not restrict the availability of the rate in the area on the basis of the principal amount of the mortgage. A mortgagee may not direct mortgage applicants to any specific interest rate category on the basis of mortgage size.
(5) Mortgage charge rate. The mortgage charge rate is defined as the amount of mortgage charges for a mortgage expressed as a percentage of the initial principal amount of the mortgage.
(6) Determining excess variations. Variation in mortgage charge rates for a mortgage type is determined by comparing all mortgage charge rates offered by the mortgagee within an area for the mortgage type for a designated day or other time period, including mortgage charge rates for all actual mortgage applications.
(7) Mortgage type. A mortgage type for purposes of paragraph (a)(6) of this section will include those mortgages that are closely parallel in important characteristics affecting pricing and charges, such as level of risk or processing expenses. The Secretary may develop standards and definitions regarding mortgage types.
(8) Recordkeeping. Mortgagees are required to maintain records on pricing information, satisfactory to the Secretary, that would allow for reasonable inspection by HUD for a period of at least 2 years. Additionally, many mortgagees are required to maintain racial, ethnic, and gender data under the regulations implementing the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (12 U.S.C. 2801-2810).
(b) Servicing. Any mortgagee that services mortgages must be approved by the Secretary under § 202.6, § 202.7 or § 202.10, or be specifically approved for servicing under § 202.9(a).
(c) Report and corrective plan requirements. If a mortgagee approved for participation in Title II programs is notified by the Secretary that it had a rate of defaults and claims on HUD-insured mortgages during the preceding year, or during recent years, which was higher than the normal rate, it shall submit a report, within 60 days, containing an explanation for the above-normal rate of defaults and claims, and, if required by the Secretary, a plan for corrective action with regard to mortgages in default and its mortgage processing system in general.
PART 203 – SINGLE FAMILY MORTGAGE INSURANCE
Subpart A – Eligibility Requirements and Underwriting Procedures
Direct Endorsement, Lender Insurance, and Commitments
§ 203.1 Underwriting procedures.
The three underwriting procedures for single family mortgages are:
(a) Direct Endorsement. This procedure, which is described in § 203.5, is available for mortgagees that are eligible under § 203.3.
(b) Lender insurance. This procedure, which is described in § 203.6, is available for mortgagees that are eligible for the Direct Endorsement program under § 203.5, and that are also approved according to § 203.4.
(c) Issuing of commitments through HUD offices. Processing through HUD offices as described in § 203.7, with issuance of commitments, is available only for mortgages that are not eligible for Direct Endorsement processing under § 203.5(b) or to the extent required in § 203.3(b)(4), § 203.3(d)(1), or as determined by the Secretary.
§ 203.3 Approval of mortgagees for Direct Endorsement.
(a) Direct Endorsement approval. To be approved for the Direct Endorsement program set forth in § 203.5, a mortgagee must be an approved mortgagee meeting the requirements of §§ 202.13, 202.14 or 202.17 and this section.
(b) Special requirements. The mortgagee must establish that it meets the following qualifications.
(1) The mortgagee has five years of experience in the origination of single family mortgages. The Secretary will approve a mortgagee with less than five years experience in the origination of single family mortgages if a principal officer has had a minimum of five years of managerial experience in the origination of single family mortgages.
(2) The mortgagee has on its permanent staff an underwriter that is authorized by the mortgagee to bind the mortgagee on matters involving the origination of mortgages through the Direct Endorsement procedure and that is registered with the Secretary and such registration is maintained with the Secretary. The technical staff may be employees of the mortgagee or may be hired on a fee basis from a roster maintained by the Secretary. The mortgagee shall use appraisers permitted by § 203.5(e).
(3) [Reserved]
(4) The mortgagee must submit initially 15 mortgages processed in accordance with §§ 203.5 and 203.255. Separate approval is required to originate mortgages under part 206 of this chapter through the Direct Endorsement program unless at least 50 mortgages closed by the mortgagee have been insured under part 206 of this chapter prior to September 15, 1995. Other mortgagees who have not closed at least 50 mortgages under part 206 of this chapter must submit five (5) Home Equity Conversion Mortgages, processed in accordance with §§ 203.3 and 203.255. The documents required by § 203.255 will be reviewed by the Secretary and, if acceptable, commitments will be issued prior to endorsement of the mortgages for insurance. If the underwriting and processing of these 15 mortgages (or the 5 Home Equity Conversion Mortgages) is satisfactory, then the mortgagee may be approved to close subsequent mortgages and submit them directly for endorsement for insurance in accordance with the process set forth in § 203.255. Unsatisfactory performance by the mortgagee at this stage constitutes grounds for denial of participation in the program, or for continued pre-endorsement review of a mortgagee’s submissions. If participation in the program is denied, such denial is effective immediately and may be appealed in accordance with the procedures set forth in paragraph (d)(2) of this section. Unsatisfactory performance solely with respect to mortgages under 24 CFR part 206 may, at the option of the Secretary, be grounds for denial of participation or for continued pre-endorsement review for 24 CFR part 206 mortgages without affecting the mortgagee’s processing of mortgages under other parts.
(5) The mortgagee shall promptly notify those HUD offices which have granted approval under this section of any changes that affect qualifications under this section.
(c) [Reserved]
(d) Mortgagee sanctions. Depending upon the nature and extent of the noncompliance with the requirements applicable to the Direct Endorsement process, as determined by the Secretary, the Secretary may take any of the following actions:
(1) Probation. The Secretary may place a mortgagee on Direct Endorsement probation for a specified period of time for the purpose of evaluating the mortgagee’s compliance with the requirements of the Direct Endorsement procedure. Such probation is distinct from probation imposed by the Mortgagee Review Board under part 25 of this chapter. During the probation period specified by this section, the mortgagee may continue to process Direct Endorsement mortgages, subject to conditions required by the Secretary. The Secretary may require the mortgagee to:
(i) Process mortgages in accordance with paragraph (b)(4) of this section;
(ii) Submit to additional training;
(iii) Make changes in the quality control plan required by § 202.5(h) of this chapter; and
(iv) Take other actions, which may include, but are not limited to, periodic reporting to the Secretary, and submission to the Secretary of internal audits.
(2) Termination of Direct Endorsement approval. (i) A mortgagee’s approval to participate in the Direct Endorsement program may be terminated in a particular jurisdiction by the local HUD office or on a nationwide basis by HUD Central Office. The HUD office instituting the termination action shall provide the mortgagee with written notice of the grounds for the action and of the right to an informal hearing before the office initiating the termination action. Such hearing shall be expeditiously arranged, and the mortgagee may be represented by counsel. Any termination instituted under this section is distinct from withdrawal of mortgagee approval by the Mortgagee Review Board under part 25 of this title.
(ii) After consideration of the materials presented, the decision maker shall advise the mortgagee in writing whether the termination is rescinded, modified or affirmed.
(iii) The mortgagee may appeal such decision to the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Single Family Housing or his or her designee. A decision by the Deputy Assistant Secretary or designee shall constitute final agency action.
(iv) Termination of an origination approval agreement under part 202 of this chapter for a mortgagee or one or more branch offices automatically terminates Direct Endorsement approval for the mortgagee or the branch office or offices without any further requirement to comply with this paragraph.
§ 203.4 Approval of mortgagees for Lender Insurance.
Each mortgagee that chooses to participate in the Lender Insurance program must use the Lender Insurance process to insure all of the mortgages that it underwrites, unless the mortgages are ineligible for the Direct Endorsement program as provided in § 203.5(b), or unless HUD determines that the mortgages are ineligible for the Lender Insurance program.
(a) Direct Endorsement approval. To be approved for the Lender Insurance program described in § 203.6, a mortgagee must be unconditionally approved for the Direct Endorsement program as provided in § 203.3.
(b) Performance: Claim and default rate. (1) In addition to being unconditionally approved for the Direct Endorsement program, a mortgagee must have had an acceptable claim and default rate (as described in paragraph (b)(3) of this section) for at least 2 years prior to its application for participation in the Lender Insurance program, and must maintain such a claim and default rate in order to retain Lender Insurance approval.
(2) HUD may approve a mortgagee that is otherwise eligible for Lender Insurance approval, but has an acceptable claim and default record of less than 2 years, if:
(i) The mortgagee is an entity created by a merger, acquisition, or reorganization completed less than 2 years prior to the date of the mortgagee’s application for Lender Insurance approval;
(ii) One or more of the entities participating in the merger, acquisition, or reorganization had Lender Insurance approval at the time of the merger, acquisition, or reorganization;
(iii) All of the lending institutions participating in the merger, acquisition, or reorganization that had Lender Insurance approval at the time of the merger, acquisition, or reorganization had an acceptable claim and default record for the 2 years preceding the mortgagee’s application for Lender Insurance approval; and
(iv) The claim and default record of the mortgagee derived by aggregating the claims and defaults of the entities participating in the merger, acquisition, or reorganization, for the 2-year period prior to the mortgagee’s application for Lender Insurance approval, constitutes an acceptable rate of claims and defaults, as defined by this section.
(3) A mortgagee has an acceptable claim and default rate if its rate of claims and defaults is at or below 150 percent of the average rate for insured mortgages in the state(s) in which the mortgagee operates.
(c) Reviews. HUD will monitor a mortgagee’s eligibility to participate in the Lender Insurance program on an ongoing basis.
(d) Termination of approval. (1) HUD may immediately terminate the mortgagee’s approval to participate in the Lender Insurance program, in accordance with section 256(d) of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1715z-21(d)), if the mortgagee:
(i) Violates any of the requirements and procedures established by the Secretary for mortgagees approved to participate in HUD’s Lender Insurance program, Direct Endorsement program, or the Title II Single Family mortgage insurance program; or
(ii) If HUD determines that other good cause exists.
(2) Such termination will be effective upon receipt of HUD’s notice advising of the termination. Within 30 days after receiving HUD’s notice of termination, a mortgagee may request an informal conference with the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Single Family Housing or designee. The conference will be conducted within 30 days after HUD receives a timely request for the conference. After the conference, the Deputy Assistant Secretary (or designee) may decide to affirm the termination action or to reinstate the mortgagee’s Lender Insurance program approval. The decision will be communicated to the mortgagee in writing, will be deemed a final agency action, and, pursuant to section 256(d) of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1715z-21(d)), is not subject to judicial review.
(3) Lender Insurance authority is automatically terminated for a mortgagee whose nationwide Direct Endorsement approval under § 203.3(d)(2) is terminated, without imposing any further requirement on the mortgagee to comply with this paragraph.
(4) Any termination instituted under this section is distinct from withdrawal of mortgagee approval by the Mortgagee Review Board under 24 CFR part 25.
(e) Reinstatement. A mortgagee whose Lender Insurance authority is terminated under this section may apply for reinstatement if the Lender Insurance authority for the mortgagee has been terminated for at least 6 months. In addition to addressing the criteria for Lender Insurance approval specified in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section, the application for reinstatement must be accompanied by a corrective action plan addressing the issues resulting in the termination of the mortgagee’s Lender Insurance authority, along with evidence that the mortgagee has implemented the corrective action plan. HUD may grant the mortgagee’s application for reinstatement if the mortgagee’s application is complete and HUD determines that the underlying causes for the termination have been satisfactorily remedied.
§ 203.5 Direct Endorsement process.
(a) General. Under the Direct Endorsement program, the Secretary does not review applications for mortgage insurance before the mortgage is executed or issue conditional or firm commitments, except to the extent required by § 203.3(b)(4), § 203.3(d)(1), or as determined by the Secretary. Under this program, the mortgagee determines that the proposed mortgage is eligible for insurance under the applicable program regulations, and submits the required documents to the Secretary in accordance with the procedures set forth in § 203.255. This subpart provides that certain functions shall be performed by the Secretary (or Commissioner), but the Secretary may specify that a Direct Endorsement mortgagee shall perform such an action without specific involvement or approval by the Secretary, subject to statutory limitations. In each case, the Direct Endorsement mortgagee’s performance is subject to pre-endorsement and post-endorsement review by the Secretary under § 203.255 (c) and (e).
(b) Eligible programs. (1) All single family mortgages authorized for insurance under the National Housing Act must be originated through the Direct Endorsement program, except the following:
(i) Mortgages underwritten for insurance by mortgagees that have applied for participation in, and have been approved for, the Lender Insurance program;
(ii) Mortgages authorized under sections 203(n), 203(p), 213(d), 221(h), 221(i), 225, 233, 237, 809, or 810 of the National Housing Act, or any other insurance programs announced by
(iii) As provided in § 203.1.
(2) The provision contained in § 221.55 of this chapter regarding deferred sales to displaced families is not available in the Direct Endorsement program.
(c) Underwriter due diligence. A Direct Endorsement mortgagee shall exercise the same level of care which it would exercise in obtaining and verifying information for a loan in which the mortgagee would be entirely dependent on the property as security to protect its investment. Mortgagee procedures that evidence such due diligence shall be incorporated as part of the quality control plan required under § 202.5(h) of this chapter. The Secretary shall publish guidelines for Direct Endorsement underwriting procedures in a handbook, which shall be provided to all mortgagees approved for the Direct Endorsement procedure. Compliance with these guidelines is deemed to be the minimum standard of due diligence in underwriting mortgages.
(d) Mortgagor’s income. The mortgagee shall evaluate the mortgagor’s credit characteristics, adequacy and stability of income to meet the periodic payments under the mortgage and all other obligations, and the adequacy of the mortgagor’s available assets to close the transaction, and render an underwriting decision in accordance with applicable regulations, policies and procedures.
(e) Appraisal. (1) A mortgagee shall have the property appraised in accordance with such standards and requirements as the Secretary may prescribe. A mortgagee must select an appraiser whose name is on the FHA Appraiser Roster, in accordance with 24 CFR part 200, subpart G.
(2) The mortgagee shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, or disability in the selection of an appraiser.
(3) A mortgagee and an appraiser must ensure that an appraisal and related documentation satisfy FHA appraisal requirements, and both bear responsibility for the quality of the appraisal in satisfying such requirements. A Direct Endorsement Mortgagee that submits, or causes to be submitted, an appraisal or related documentation that does not satisfy FHA requirements is subject to administrative sanction by the Mortgagee Review Board pursuant to parts 25 and 30 of this title.
§ 203.6 Lender Insurance process.
Under the Lender Insurance program, a mortgagee approved for the program conducts its own pre-insurance review, insures the mortgage, and agrees to indemnify HUD in accordance with § 203.255(f).
§ 203.7 Commitment process.
For single family mortgage programs that are not eligible for Direct Endorsement processing under § 203.5, or for Lender Insurance processing under § 203.6, the mortgagee must submit an application for mortgage insurance in a form prescribed by the Secretary prior to making the mortgage loan. If:
(a) A mortgage for a specified property has been accepted for insurance through issuance of a conditional commitment by the Secretary or a certificate of reasonable value by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and
(b) A specified mortgagor and all other proposed terms and conditions of the mortgage meet the eligibility requirements for insurance as determined by the Secretary, the Secretary shall approve the application for insurance by issuing a firm commitment setting forth the terms and conditions of insurance.
§ 203.8 Approval of mortgagees for Direct Endorsement Lender Review and Approval Process (DELRAP).
(a) General. Each mortgagee that chooses to participate in the review and approval of Condominium Projects, as set forth in § 203.43b, must be granted authority to participate in the Direct Endorsement Lender Review and Approval Process (DELRAP).
(b) DELRAP Authority – (1) Eligibility. To be granted DELRAP authority, as described in § 203.43b, a mortgagee must be unconditionally approved for the Direct Endorsement program as provided in § 203.3 and meet the following requirements:
(i) Have staff with at least one year of experience in underwriting mortgages on condominiums and/or Condominium Project approval;
(ii) Have originated no fewer than 10 condominium loans in projects approved by the Commissioner;
(iii) Have an acceptable quality control plan that includes specific provisions related to DELRAP; and
(iv) Ensure that staff members that participate in the approval of a Condominium Project using DELRAP authority meet the above requirements in paragraph (b)(1)(i) of this section or are supervised by staff that meet such requirements.
(2) Conditional DELRAP Authority. Mortgagees will be granted conditional DELRAP authority upon provision of notice to the Commissioner of the intent to use DELRAP. Mortgagees with conditional DELRAP authority must submit all recommended Condominium Project approvals, denials, and recertifications to FHA for review. If FHA agrees with the mortgagee’s recommendation, it will advise the mortgagee that it may proceed with the recommended decision on the Condominium Project.
(3) Unconditional DELRAP Authority. Mortgagees will be granted unconditional DELRAP authority after completing at least five (5) DELRAP reviews, or such lower number of DELRAP reviews as HUD may specify, to the satisfaction of HUD, and may then exercise DELRAP authority to approve projects in accordance with requirements of HUD.
(c) Reviews. HUD will monitor a mortgagee’s performance in DELRAP on an ongoing basis.
(1) If the review shows that there are no material deficiencies, subsequent project approvals, denials, or recertifications may be selected for post-action review based on a percentage as determined by the Commissioner.
(2) If the review shows that there are material deficiencies in the mortgagee’s DELRAP performance, the mortgagee may be returned to conditional DELRAP status.
(3) If additional reviews continue to show material deficiencies in the mortgagee’s DELRAP performance, the mortgagee’s authority to participate in DELRAP may be terminated or other action taken against the mortgagee or responsible staff reviewer.
(d) Termination of DELRAP Authority. (1) HUD may immediately terminate the mortgagee’s authority to participate in DELRAP or take any action listed in 24 CFR 203.3(d) if:
(i) The mortgagee violates any of the requirements and procedures established by the Secretary for mortgagees approved to participate in DELRAP, the Direct Endorsement program, or the Title II Single Family mortgage insurance program; or
(ii) HUD determines that other good cause exists.
(2) Such termination will be effective upon the date of receipt of HUD’s notice advising of the termination.
(3) Notwithstanding any provisions of this section, the Commissioner reserves the right to take administrative action, including revocation of DELRAP authority, against any mortgagee and staff reviewer because of unacceptable performance. Any termination instituted under this section is distinct from withdrawal of mortgagee approval by the Mortgagee Review Board under 24 CFR part 25.
(e) Reinstatement. A mortgagee whose DELRAP authority is terminated under this section may request reinstatement if the mortgagee’s DELRAP authority has been terminated for at least 6 months. In addition to addressing the eligibility criteria specified in paragraph (b)(1) of this section, the application for reinstatement must be accompanied by a corrective action plan addressing the issues that led to the termination of the mortgagee’s DELRAP authority, along with evidence that the mortgagee has implemented the corrective action plan. The Commissioner may grant conditional DELRAP authority if the mortgagee’s application is complete and the Commissioner determines that the underlying causes for the termination have been satisfactorily remedied. The mortgagee will be required to complete successfully at least five DELRAP reviews in accordance with paragraph (b)(2) of this section in order to receive unconditional DELRAP authority as provided in paragraph (b)(3) of this section.
Miscellaneous Regulations
§ 203.9 Disclosure regarding interest due upon mortgage prepayment.
Each mortgagee with respect to a mortgage under this part shall at or before closing with respect to any such mortgage, provide the mortgagor with written notice in a form prescribed by the Commissioner describing any requirements the mortgagor must fulfill upon prepayment of the principal amount of the mortgage to prevent the accrual of any interest on the principal amount after the date of such prepayment. This paragraph shall apply to any mortgage executed after August 22, 1991, and before January 21, 2015.
§ 203.10 Informed consumer choice for prospective FHA mortgagors.
(a) Mortgagee to provide disclosure notice. A mortgagee must provide a prospective FHA mortgagor with an informed consumer choice disclosure notice if, in the mortgagees’s judgment, the prospective FHA mortgagor may qualify for similar conventional mortgage products offered by the mortgagee. The mortgagee should base this judgment on the mortgagee’s initial assessment of the prospective FHA mortgagor’s eligibility for a conventional mortgage product. If a mortgagee is unsure about a prospective FHA mortgagor’s eligibility for a conventional mortgage product, the mortgagee should provide the prospective FHA mortgagor with an informed consumer choice disclosure notice.
(b) Informed consumer choice disclosure notice – (1) Contents of notice. The informed consumer choice disclosure notice must:
(i) Provide a one page generic analysis comparing the mortgage costs of an FHA-insured mortgage with the mortgage costs of similar conventional mortgage products offered by the mortgagee that the prospective FHA mortgagor may qualify for;
(ii) Provide information about when the requirement to pay FHA mortgage insurance premiums terminates; and
(iii) Meet the requirements of section 203(b)(2) of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1709(b)(2)).
(2) Format of disclosure notice. The informed consumer choice disclosure notice must be provided in a format prescribed by the Commissioner. HUD has prepared a model informed consumer choice disclosure notice that represents this format and that meets the requirements of section 203(b)(2) of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1709(b)(2)). The model informed consumer choice disclosure notice contains the minimum elements of an informed consumer choice disclosure notice. These elements must be included in a mortgagee’s informed consumer choice disclosure notice. A mortgagee, however, may include additional elements in an informed consumer choice disclosure notice to better reflect the mortgagee’s products or to provide information that the mortgagee believes is meaningful and helpful to the mortgagee’s customers.
(3) Availability of model disclosure notice. HUD’s model informed consumer choice disclosure notice is made available to FHA-approved mortgagees through Mortgagee Letter and is available to the public through the internet at HUD’s web site at http://www.hud.gov or by contacting: Home Mortgage Insurance Division, Office of Insured Single Family Housing, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 451 Seventh Street, SW, Washington, DC 20410-8000; telephone (202) 708-2700 (this is not a toll-free number), or the nearest HUD Homeownership Center (Atlanta, GA (888) 696-4687; Denver, CO (800) 543-9378; Philadelphia, PA (800) 440-8647; or Santa Ana, CA (888) 827-5605). Hearing- or speech-impaired individuals may access these numbers via TTY by calling the toll-free Federal Information Relay Service at (800) 877-8339.
(c) Timing. When required under paragraph (a) of this section, a mortgagee must provide an informed consumer choice disclosure notice to a prospective FHA mortgagor not later than three business days after the mortgagee receives the prospective FHA mortgagor’s application.
(d) Revision of notice. A mortgagee should revise its informed consumer choice disclosure notice periodically to reflect prevailing market conditions. To ensure that the informed consumer choice disclosure notice reflects prevailing market conditions, a mortgagee must revise its informed consumer choice disclosure notice at least once annually.
(e) Applicability. This section applies to any application for mortgage insurance authorized under section 203(b) of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1709) that the mortgagee receives on or after September 2, 1999.
(f) Definitions. As used in this section:
Application means the submission of financial information in anticipation of a credit decision.
Conventional mortgage means conventional mortgage as used in section 305(a)(2) of the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation Act (12 U.S.C. 1454(a)(2)) or section 302(b)(2) of the Federal National Mortgage Association Charter Act (12 U.S.C. 1717(b)(2)), as applicable.
Mortgagee means mortgagee as defined in § 202.2 of this chapter.
Prospective FHA mortgagor means a person who submits an application to a mortgagee to obtain mortgage insurance authorized under section 203(b) of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1709).
§ 203.12 Mortgage insurance on proposed or new construction.
(a) Applicability. This section applies to an application for insurance of a mortgage on a one-to four-family dwelling, unless the mortgage will be secured by a dwelling that:
(1) Was completed more than one year before the date of the application for insurance or, under the Direct Endorsement Program, was completed more than one year before the date of the appraisal; or
(2) Is being sold to a second or subsequent purchaser.
(b) Procedures. (1) Applications for insurance to which this section applies will be processed in accordance with procedures prescribed by the Secretary. These procedures may only provide for endorsement for insurance of a mortgage covering a dwelling that is:
(i) Approved under the Direct Endorsement Program or the Lender Insurance Program; or
(ii) Located in a subdivision approved by the Rural Housing Service.
(2) The mortgagee must submit a signed Builder’s Certification of Plans, Specifications and Site (Builder’s Certification). The Builder’s Certification must be in a form prescribed by the Secretary and must cover:
(i) Flood hazards;
(ii) Noise;
(iii) Explosive and flammable materials storage hazards;
(iv) Runway clear zones/clear zones;
(v) Toxic waste hazards;
(vi) Other foreseeable hazards or adverse conditions (i.e., rock formations, unstable soils or slopes, high ground water levels, inadequate surface drainage, springs, etc.) that may affect the health and safety of the occupants or the structural soundness of the improvements. The Builder’s Certification must be provided to the appraiser for reference before the performance of an appraisal on the property.
(3) If a builder (or developer) intends to sell five or more properties in a subdivision, an Affirmative Fair Housing Marketing Plan (AFHMP) that meets the requirements of 24 CFR part 200, subpart M must be submitted and approved by HUD no later than the date of the first application for mortgage insurance in that subdivision. Thereafter, applications for insurance on other properties sold by the same builder (or developer) in the same subdivision may make reference to the existing previously approved AFHMP.
§ 203.14 Builders’ warranty.
Applications relating to proposed construction must be accompanied by an agreement in form satisfactory to the Secretary, executed by the seller or builder or such other person as the Secretary may require, and agreeing that in the event of any sale or conveyance of the dwelling, within a period of one year beginning with the date of initial occupancy, the seller, builder, or such other person will at the time of such sale or conveyance deliver to the purchaser or owner of such property a warranty in form satisfactory to the Secretary warranting that the dwelling is constructed in substantial conformity with the plans and specifications (including amendments thereof or changes and variations therein which have been approved in writing by the Secretary) on which the Secretary has based on the valuation of the dwelling. Such agreement must provide that upon the sale or conveyance of the dwelling and delivery of the warranty, the seller, builder or such other person will promptly furnish the Secretary with a conformed copy of the warranty establishing by the purchaser’s receipt thereon that the original warranty has been delivered to the purchaser in accordance with this section.
§ 203.15 Certification of appraisal amount.
An application with respect to insurance of mortgages must be accompanied by an agreement satisfactory to the Commissioner, executed by the seller, builder or such other person as may be required by the Commissioner, whereby the person agrees that before any sale of the dwelling, the person will deliver to the purchaser of the property a written statement, in a form satisfactory to the Commissioner, setting forth the amount of the appraised value of the property as determined by the Commissioner.
§ 203.16 Certificate and contract regarding use of dwelling for transient or hotel purposes.
Every application filed with respect to insurance of mortgages on a two-, three-, or four-family dwelling, or a single-family dwelling which is one of a group of 5 or more single-family dwellings held by the same mortgagor, must be accompanied by a contract in form satisfactory to the Commissioner, signed by the proposed mortgagor covenanting and agreeing that so long as the proposed mortgage is insured by the Commissioner the mortgagor will not rent the housing or any part thereof covered by the mortgage for transient or hotel purposes, together with the mortgagor’s certification under oath that the housing or any part thereof covered by the proposed mortgage will not be rented for transient or hotel purposes. For the purpose of this subchapter rental for transient or hotel purposes shall mean (a) rental for any period less than 30 days or (b) any rental if the occupants of the housing accommodations are provided customary hotel services such as room service for food and beverages, maid service, furnishing and laundering of linen, and bellboy service.
§ 203.16a Mortgagor and mortgagee requirement for maintaining flood insurance coverage.
(a) In general. (1) The requirements of this section apply if a mortgage is to cover property improvements that:
(i) Are located in an area designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as a floodplain area having special flood hazards;
(ii) Are otherwise determined by the Commissioner to be subject to flood hazard; or
(iii) Are not otherwise covered by the flood insurance standard for condominium projects established under § 203.43b(d)(6)(iii) or (i)(1).
(2) No mortgage may be insured that covers property improvements located in an area that has been identified by FEMA as an area having special flood hazards unless the community in which the area is situated is participating in the National Flood Insurance Program and flood insurance under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is available with respect to such property improvements. Such requirement for flood insurance shall be effective one year after the date of notification by FEMA to the chief executive officer of a flood prone community that such community has been identified as having special flood hazards.
(3) For purposes of this section, property improvement means a dwelling and related structures/equipment essential to the value of the property and subject to flood damage.
(b) Flood insurance obligation. The mortgagor and mortgagee shall be obligated, by a special condition to be included in the mortgage commitment, to obtain and maintain either NFIP flood insurance or private flood insurance coverage on the property improvements.
(c) Insurance policy. A mortgagee may accept a flood insurance policy in the form of the standard policy issued under the NFIP or a private flood insurance policy as defined in this section, and the mortgagee shall be named as the loss payee for flood insurance benefits. A mortgagee may determine that a private flood insurance policy meets the definition of private flood insurance in this section, without further review of the policy, if the following statement is included within the policy or as an endorsement to the policy: “This policy meets the definition of private flood insurance contained in 24 CFR 203.16a(e) for FHA-insured mortgages.”
(d) Duration and amount of coverage. The flood insurance must be maintained during such time as the mortgage is insured in an amount at least equal to the lowest of the following:
(1) 100 percent replacement cost of the insurable value of the improvements, which consists of the development or project cost less estimated land cost; or
(2) The maximum amount of NFIP insurance available with respect to the particular type of property; or
(3) The outstanding principal balance of the loan.
(e) Private flood insurance defined. The term “private flood insurance” means an insurance policy that:
(1) Is issued by an insurance company that is:
(i) Licensed, admitted, or otherwise approved to engage in the business of insurance in the State or jurisdiction in which the insured building is located, by the insurance regulator of that State or jurisdiction; or
(ii) In the case of a policy of difference in conditions, multiple peril, all risk, or other blanket coverage insuring nonresidential commercial property, is recognized, or not disapproved, as a surplus lines insurer by the insurance regulator of the State or jurisdiction where the property to be insured is located;
(2) Provides flood insurance coverage that is at least as broad as the coverage provided under a standard flood insurance policy under the National Flood Insurance Program for the same type of property, including when considering deductibles, exclusions, and conditions offered by the insurer. To be at least as broad as the coverage provided under a standard flood insurance policy under the National Flood Insurance Program, the policy must, at a minimum:
(i) Define the term “flood” to include the events defined as a “flood” in a standard flood insurance policy under the National Flood Insurance Program;
(ii) Contain the coverage specified in a standard flood insurance policy under the National Flood Insurance Program, including that relating to building property coverage; personal property coverage, if purchased by the insured mortgagor(s); other coverages; and increased cost of compliance coverage;
(iii) Contain deductibles no higher than the specified maximum, and include similar non-applicability provisions, as under a standard flood insurance policy under the National Flood Insurance Program, for any total policy coverage amount up to the maximum available under the NFIP at the time the policy is provided to the lender;
(iv) Provide coverage for direct physical loss caused by a flood and may only exclude other causes of loss that are excluded in a standard flood insurance policy under the National Flood Insurance Program. Any exclusions other than those in a standard flood insurance policy under the National Flood Insurance Program may pertain only to coverage that is in addition to the amount and type of coverage that could be provided by a standard flood insurance policy under the National Flood Insurance Program or have the effect of providing broader coverage to the policyholder; and
(v) Not contain conditions that narrow the coverage provided in a standard flood insurance policy under the National Flood Insurance Program;
(3) Includes all of the following:
(i) A requirement for the insurer to give 45 days’ written notice of cancellation or non-renewal of flood insurance coverage to:
(A) The insured;
(B) The mortgagee, if any; and
(C) Federal Housing Administration (FHA), in cases where the mortgagee has assigned the loan to FHA in exchange for claim payment;
(ii) Information about the availability of flood insurance coverage under the National Flood Insurance Program;
(iii) A mortgage interest clause similar to the clause contained in a standard flood insurance policy under the National Flood Insurance Program; and
(iv) A provision requiring an insured to file suit not later than 1 year after the date of a written denial of all or part of a claim under the policy; and
(4) Contains cancellation provisions that are as restrictive as the provisions contained in a standard flood insurance policy under the National Flood Insurance Program.
Eligible Mortgages
§ 203.17 Mortgage provisions.
(a) Mortgage form. (1) The term “mortgage” as used in this part, except § 203.43c, shall have the meaning given in Section 201 of the National Housing Act, as amended (12 U.S.C. 1707).
(2)(i) The mortgage shall be in a form meeting the requirements of the Commissioner. The Commissioner may prescribe complete mortgage instruments. For each case in which the Commissioner does not prescribe complete mortgage instruments, the Commissioner
(A) Shall require specific language in the mortgage which shall be uniform for every mortgage, and
(B) May also prescribe the language or substance of additional provisions for all mortgages as well as the language or substance of additional provisions for use only in particular jurisdictions or for particular programs.
(ii) Each mortgage shall also contain any provisions necessary to create a valid and enforceable secured debt under the laws of the jurisdiction in which the property is located.
(b) Mortgage multiples. A mortgage shall involve a principal obligation in a multiple of $1.
(c) Payments. The mortgage shall:
(1) Come due on the first of the month.
(2) Contain complete amortization provisions satisfactory to the Secretary and an amortization period not in excess of the term of the mortgage.
(3) Provide for payments to principal and interest to begin not later than the first day of the month following 60 days from the date the mortgage is executed (or the date a construction mortgage is converted to a permanent mortgage, if applicable).
(d) Maturity. The mortgage shall have a term of not more than 30 years from the date of the beginning of amortization.
(e) Property Standards. The mortgage must be a first lien upon the property that conforms with property standards prescribed by the Commissioner.
(f) Disbursement. The entire principal amount of the mortgage must have been disbursed to the mortgagor or to his or her creditors for his or her account and with his or her consent.
§ 203.18 Maximum mortgage amounts.
(a) Mortgagors of principal or secondary residences. The principal amount of the mortgage must not exceed the lesser of the following amounts that apply:
(1) The dollar amount limitation that applies for the area under section 203(b)(2)(A) of the National Housing Act including any increase in the dollar limitation under § 203.29, as announced in accordance with § 203.18(h);
(2)(i) The amount based on appraised value that is permitted by section 203(b)(10) of the National Housing Act, if that provision is in effect and applies to the mortgage; or
(ii) If section 203(b)(10) is not in effect or otherwise does not apply to the mortgage, the lesser of the amounts based on appraised value that are permitted by section 203(b)(2)(B) of the National Housing Act and paragraph (g) of this section;
(3) An amount equal to 85 percent of the appraised value if the mortgage covers a dwelling that is to be occupied as a secondary residence (as defined in paragraph (f)(2) of this section).
(b) Veteran qualifications. The special veteran terms provided in section 203(b)(2) of the National Housing Act shall apply only if the mortgagor submits one of the following certifications:
(1) A certification issued by the Secretary of Defense establishing that the veteran performed extra hazardous service while serving in the armed forces for a period of less than 90 days; or
(2) A Certificate of Eligibility from the Department of Veterans Affairs establishing that the person served 90 days or more on active duty in the armed forces (U.S. Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, the Army Reserve, the Naval Reserve, the Marine Corps Reserve, the Air Force Reserve, the Coast Guard Reserve, the National Guard of the United States, or the Air National Guard of the United States); that he or she enlisted before September 8, 1980; and that he or she was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable (a copy of the veteran’s discharge papers or Form DD-214 shall be submitted with the certificate); or
(3) A Certificate of Eligibility from the Department of Veterans Affairs establishing that the person:
(i)(A) Originally enlisted in a regular component of the armed forces after September 7, 1980; or entered on active duty after October 16, 1981, and he or she had not previously completed a period of active duty of at least 24 months or been discharged or released from active duty under 10 U.S.C. 1171; and
(B) Has completed, since enlistment or entering on active duty, either:
(1) Twenty-four months of continuous active duty, or the full period for which he or she was called or ordered to active duty, whichever is shorter; or
(2) Any other period of active duty if he or she was discharged or released from duty under 10 U.S.C. 1171 or 1173; was discharged or released from duty for disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty; or has a disability which the Department of Veterans Affairs has determined to be compensable under 38 U.S.C. chap. 11; and
(ii) Was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable (a copy of the veteran’s discharge papers or Form DD-214 shall be submitted with the certification).
(c) Eligible non-occupant mortgagors. A mortgage may be executed by an eligible non-occupant mortgagor (as that term is defined in paragraph (f)(3) of this section) for up to an amount authorized for the appropriate loan type in paragraph (a) of this section except where a lesser amount is expressly provided for in this part.
(d) Outlying area properties. A mortgage covering a single family residence located in an area in which the Commissioner finds that it is not practicable to obtain conformity with many of the requirements essential to the insurance of mortgages in built-up, urban areas; or a mortgage covering a single family dwelling that is to be used as a farm home on a plot of land that is two and one-half or more acres in size and adjacent to an all-weather public road, may not exceed:
(1) In the case of a mortgagor who is to occupy the dwelling as a principal residence (as defined in paragraph (f)(1) of this section):
(i) 75 percent of the dollar limitation under (a)(1).
(ii) 97 percent of the appraised value of the property as of the date the mortgage is accepted for insurance, if:
(A) The Commissioner approved the dwelling for insurance before the beginning of construction; or
(B) Construction was completed more than one year before the date of the application for insurance; or
(C) The Secretary of Veterans Affairs approved the dwelling for guaranty, insurance, or direct loan before the beginning of construction.
(iii) If the property does not meet the requirements of paragraph (d)(1)(ii) of this section, 90 percent of the appraised value of the property as of the date the mortgage is accepted for insurance.
(2) In the case of a mortgagor who is to occupy the dwelling as a secondary residence (as defined in paragraph (f)(2) of this section):
(i) The amount permitted in paragraph (d)(1)(i) of this section, or
(ii) 85 percent of the appraised value of the property as of the date the mortgage is accepted for insurance.
(e) Disaster victims. A mortgage covering a single family dwelling, in an amount not in excess of the maximum dollar limitation specified in paragraph (a)(1) of this section (unless a higher maximum mortgage amount is authorized under § 203.29), and not in excess of the lesser of 100 percent of the appraised value of the property or the cost of acquisition as of the date the mortgage is accepted for insurance, shall be eligible for insurance if:
(1) The mortgage is executed by a mortgagor who is to occupy the dwelling as a principal residence (as defined in paragraph (f)(1) of this section);
(2) The mortgagor establishes that the home which he or she previously occupied as owner or tenant was destroyed or damaged to such an extent that reconstruction or replacement is required as a result of a flood, fire, hurricane, earthquake, storm, riot or civil disorder or other catastrophe which the President has determined to be a major disaster; and
(3) The application for insurance is filed within one year from the date of such presidential determination, or within such additional period of time as the period of federal assistance with respect to such disaster may be extended.
(f) Definitions. As used in this section:
(1) Principal residence means the dwelling where the mortgagor maintains (or will maintain) his or her permanent place of abode, and typically spends (or will spend) the majority of the calendar year. A person may have only one principal residence at any one time.
(2) Secondary residence means a dwelling: (i) Where the mortgagor maintains or will maintain a part-time place of abode and typically spends (or will spend) less than a majority of the calendar year; (ii) which is not a vacation home; and (iii) which the Commissioner has determined to be eligible for insurance in order to avoid undue hardship to the mortgagor. A person may have only one secondary residence at a time.
(3) Eligible non-occupant mortgagor means a mortgagor (or co-mortgagor, as appropriate) who is not to occupy the dwelling as a principal residence or a secondary residence and who is –
(i) A public entity, as provided in section 214 or 247 of the National Housing Act, or any other State or local government or agency thereof;
(ii) A private nonprofit or public entity, as provided in section 221(h) or 235(j) of the National Housing Act, or other private nonprofit organization that is exempt from taxation under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and intends to sell or lease the mortgaged property to low or moderate income persons, as determined by the Secretary;
(iii) An Indian tribe, as provided in section 248 of the National Housing Act;
(iv) A serviceperson who is unable to meet the occupancy requirement because of his or her duty assignment, as provided in section 216 of the National Housing Act or subsection (b)(4) or (f) of section 222 of the National Housing Act;
(v) A mortgagor or co-mortgagor under subsection 203(k) of the National Housing Act; or
(vi) A mortgagor who, pursuant to § 203.43(c) of this part, is refinancing an existing mortgage insured under the National Housing Act for not more than the outstanding balance of the existing mortgage, if the amount of the monthly payment due under the refinancing mortgage is less than the amount due under the existing mortgage for the month in which the refinancing mortgage is executed.
(4) Appraised value means the sum of:
(i) The lesser of sales price (with any adjustments required by the Secretary) or the amount set forth in the written statement required under § 203.15; and
(ii) Borrower-paid closing costs allowed under § 203.27(a)(1)-(3), except that closing costs do not apply if section 203(b)(10) of the National Housing Act is in effect and neither sales price nor closing costs apply for purposes of paragraph (g) of this section.
(5) Undue hardship means that affordable housing which meets the needs of the mortgagor is not available for lease, or within reasonable commuting distance from the mortgagor’s home to his or her work place.
(6) Vacation home means a dwelling that is used primarily for recreational purposes and enjoyment, and that is not a primary or secondary residence.
(g) Maximum principal obligation. Except for mortgages meeting the requirements of § 203.18(b), § 203.18(e) or § 203.50(f), and notwithstanding any other provision of this section, a mortgage may not involve a principal obligation in excess of 98.75 percent of the appraised value of the property (97.75 percent, in the case of a mortgage with an appraised value in excess of $50,000), plus the amount of the mortgage insurance premium paid at the time the mortgage is insured.
(h) Notice of maximum mortgage amount. A maximum mortgage amount based on the 1-family median house price for an area under paragraph (a)(1) of this section may be made effective by:
(1) Providing direct notice to affected mortgagees through an administrative issuance; or
(2) Publishing a notice in the
(i) Energy efficient mortgages. The principal amount of energy efficient mortgages may exceed the maximum amounts determined under paragraph (a)(1) of this section under conditions prescribed by the Secretary in accordance with section 106 of the Energy Policy Act of 1992.
§ 203.18a Solar energy system.
(a) The dollar limitation provided in § 203.18(a) may be increased by up to 20 percent if such an increase is necessary to account for the increased cost of the residence due to the installation of a solar energy system.
(b) Solar energy system is defined as any addition, alteration, or improvement to an existing or new structure which is designed to utilize wind energy or solar energy either of the active type based on mechanically forced energy transfer or of the passive type based on convective, conductive, or radiant energy transfer or some combination of these types to reduce the energy requirements of that structure from other energy sources and which is in conformity with such criteria and standards as shall be prescribed by the Secretary in consultation with the Secretary of Energy.
§ 203.18b Increased mortgage amount.
(a) If any party believes that a mortgage limit established by the Secretary under § 203.18(a)(1) does not accurately reflect the median house prices in an area, the party may submit documentation in support of an alternative mortgage limit. For purposes of this section, an area (1) must be at least the size of a county, whether or not the area is located within a metropolitan statistical area, as established by the Office of Management and Budget; and (2) may be an area for which the mortgage limits established under § 203.18(b)(1) apply.
(b)(1) The documentation referred to in paragraph (a) of this section must consist of sufficient housing sales price data for the entire geographic area for which the request is made to justify an alternative mortgage limit. The documentation should include a listing of actual sales prices in the area for all or nearly all new and existing 1-family homes and condominiums, over a period of time varies with sales volume, as follows:
(i) For 500 or more sales per month, a one-month reporting period;
(ii) For 250 through 499 sales per month, a two-month reporting period.
(iii) For less than 250 sales per month, a three-month reporting period.
(2) Requests for an increased mortgage limit based upon documentation of median house prices for the area should be sent to the appropriate HUD field office.
(c) In the case of an area where the Commissioner determines that the median one-family house price does not reasonably reflect the sales prices of newly constructed homes because of an existing stock whose value is static or declining, the Commissioner may give greater weight to the sales prices of new homes in determining median house price in such area. Without limiting the discretion of the Commissioner in fashioning appropriate methods of implementing the foregoing authority in particular circumstances based upon a demonstration of good cause satisfactory to the Commissioner, in areas where evidence satisfactory to the Commissioner indicates that existing home sales outnumber new home sales by three-to-one or better, the median sales price will be calculated as the greater of (1) the average of the median sales price for new and existing homes, and (2) the composite median price of all sales.
After determining any maximum insurable mortgage amount under the provisions of this subpart, the maximum insurable amount of any mortgage may be increased by the amount of any one-time or up-front mortgage insurance premium that will be financed as part of the mortgage.
§ 203.18d Minimum principal loan amount.
A mortgagee may not require, as a condition of providing a loan secured by a mortgage insured under this part, that the principal amount of the mortgage exceed a minimum amount established by the mortgagee.
§ 203.19 Qualified mortgage.
(a) Definitions. As used in this section:
(1) Average prime offer rate means an annual percentage rate that is derived from average interest rates, points, and other loan pricing terms currently offered to mortgagors by a representative sample of mortgagees for mortgage transactions that have low-risk pricing characteristics as published by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) from time to time in accordance with the CFPB’s regulations at 12 CFR 1026.35, pertaining to prohibited acts or practices in connection with higher-priced mortgage loans.
(2) Annual percentage rate is the measure of the cost of credit, expressed as a yearly rate, that relates the amount and timing of value received by the mortgagor to the amount and timing of payments made and is the rate required to be disclosed by the mortgagee under 12 CFR 1026.18, pertaining to disclosure of finance charges for mortgages.
(3) Points and fees has the meaning given to “points and fees” in 12 CFR 1026.32(b)(1) as of January 10, 2014. Any changes made by the CFPB to the points and fees definition may be adopted by HUD through publication of a notice and after providing FHA-approved mortgagees with time, as may be determined necessary, to implement.
(b) Qualified mortgage – (1) Limit. For a single family mortgage to be insured under title II of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.), except for mortgages for manufactured housing and mortgages under paragraph (c) of this section, the total points and fees payable in connection with a loan used to secure a dwelling shall not exceed the CFPB’s limit on points and fees for qualified mortgage in its regulations at 12 CFR 1026.43(e)(3) as of January 10, 2014. Any changes made by the CFPB to the limit on points and fees may be adopted by HUD through publication of a notice and after providing FHA-approved mortgagees with time, as may be determined necessary, to implement.
(2) Rebuttable presumption qualified mortgage. (i) A single family mortgage insured under title II of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.), except for mortgages for manufactured housing and mortgages under paragraph (c) of this section, that has an annual percentage rate that exceeds the average prime offer rate for a comparable mortgage, as of the date the interest rate is set, by more than the combined annual mortgage insurance premium and 1.15 percentage points for a first-lien mortgage is a rebuttable presumption qualified mortgage that is presumed to comply with the ability to repay requirements in 15 U.S.C. 1639c(a).
(ii) To rebut the presumption of compliance, it must be proven that the mortgage exceeded the points and fees limit in paragraph (b)(1) of this section or that, despite the mortgage having been endorsed for insurance under the National Housing Act, the mortgagee did not make a reasonable and good-faith determination of the mortgagor’s repayment ability at the time of consummation, by failing to evaluate the mortgagor’s income, credit, and assets in accordance with HUD underwriting requirements.
(3) Safe harbor qualified mortgage. (i) A mortgage for manufactured housing that is insured under Title II of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) is a safe harbor qualified mortgage that meets the ability to repay requirements in 15 U.S.C. 1639c(a); and
(ii) A single family mortgage insured under title II of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.), except for mortgages under paragraph (c) of this section, that has an annual percentage rate that does not exceed the average prime offer rate for a comparable mortgage, as of the date the interest rate is set, by more than the combined annual mortgage insurance premium and 1.15 percentage points for a first-lien mortgage is a safe harbor qualified mortgage that meets the ability to repay requirements in 15 U.S.C. 1639c(a).
(4) Effect of indemnification on qualified mortgage status. An indemnification demand or resolution of a demand that relates to whether the loan satisfied relevant eligibility and underwriting requirements at the time of consummation may result from facts that could allow a change to qualified mortgage status, but the existence of an indemnification does not per se remove qualified mortgage status.
(c) Exempted transactions. The following transactions are exempted from the requirements in paragraph (b) of this section:
(1) Home Equity Conversion Mortgages under section 255 of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1715z-20); and
(2) Mortgage transactions exempted by the CFPB in its regulations at 12 CFR 1026.43(a)(3) as of January 10, 2014. Any changes made by CFPB to the list of exempted transactions may be adopted by HUD through publication of a notice and after providing FHA-approved mortgagees with time, as may be determined necessary, to implement.
(d) Ability to make adjustments to this section by notice. The FHA Commissioner may make adjustments to this section, including the calculations of fees or the list of transactions excluded from compliance with the requirements of this section as the Commissioner determines necessary for purposes of meeting FHA’s mission, after solicitation and consideration of public comments.
§ 203.20 Agreed interest rate.
(a) The mortgage shall bear interest at the rate agreed upon by the mortgagee and the mortgagor.
(b) Interest shall be payable in monthly installments on the principal amount of the mortgage outstanding on the due date of each installment.
§ 203.21 Amortization provisions.
The mortgage must contain complete amortization provisions satisfactory to the Commissioner, requiring monthly payments by the mortgagor not in excess of his reasonable ability to pay as determined by the Commissioner. The sum of the principal and interest payments in each month shall be substantially the same.
(a) Payment of periodic insurance premiums or charges. Except with respect to mortgages for which a one-time mortgage insurance premium is paid pursuant to § 203.280, the mortgage may provide for monthly payments by the mortgagor to the mortgagee of an amount equal to one-twelfth of the annual mortgage insurance premium payable by the mortgagee to the Commissioner. Such payments continue only so long as the contract of insurance shall remain in effect or for such shorter period as mortgage insurance premiums are payable by the mortgagee to the Commissioner.
(b) Prepayment privilege. The mortgage shall contain a provision permitting the mortgagor to prepay the mortgage in whole or in part at any time and in any amount. The mortgage shall not provide for the payment of any charge on account of such prepayment.
§ 203.23 Mortgagor’s payments to include other charges.
(a) The mortgage shall provide for such equal monthly payments by the mortgagor to the mortgagee as will amortize:
(1) The ground rents, if any;
(2) The estimated amount of all taxes;
(3) Special assessments, if any;
(4) Flood insurance premiums, if flood insurance is required by the Commissioner; and
(5) Fire and other hazard insurance premiums, if any. The mortgage shall further provide that such payments shall be held by the mortgagee in a manner satisfactory to the Commissioner for the purpose of paying such ground rents, taxes, assessments, and insurance premiums before the same become delinquent, for the benefit and account of the mortgagor. The mortgage must also make provisions for adjustments in case the estimated amount of such taxes, assessments, and insurance premiums shall prove to be more, or less, than the actual amount thereof so paid by the mortgagor. Such payments shall be held in an escrow subject to § 203.550.
(b) The mortgagor shall not be required to pay premiums for fire or other hazard insurance which protects only the interests of the mortgagee, or for life or disability income insurance, or fees charged for obtaining information necessary for the payment of property taxes. The foregoing does not apply to charges made or penalties exacted by the taxing authority, except that a penalty assessed or interest charged by a taxing authority for failure to timely pay taxes or assessments shall not be charged by the mortgagee to the mortgagor if the mortgagee had sufficient funds in escrow for the account of the mortgagor to pay such taxes or assessments prior to the date on which penalty or interest charges are imposed.
(c) Mortgages involving a principal obligation not in excess of $9,000 may contain a provision requiring the mortgagor to pay to the mortgagee an annual service charge at such rate as may be agreed upon between the mortgagee and the mortgagor, but in no case shall such service charge exceed one-half of one percent per annum. Any such service charge shall be payable in monthly installments on the principal then outstanding. The provisions of this paragraph shall not apply to mortgages endorsed for insurance pursuant to applications received by the Commissioner on or after July 17, 1961.
§ 203.24 Application of payments.
(a) All monthly payments to be made by the mortgagor to the mortgagee shall be added together and the aggregate amount thereof shall be paid by the mortgagor each month in a single payment. The mortgagee shall apply the same to the following items in the order set forth:
(1) Premium charges under the contract of insurance (other than a one-time or up-front mortgage insurance premium paid in accordance with §§ 203.280, 203.284 and 203.285), charges for ground rents, taxes, special assessments, flood insurance premiums, if required, and fire and other hazard insurance premiums;
(2) Interest on the mortgage;
(3) Amortization of the principal of the mortgage; and
(4) Late charges, if permitted under the terms of the mortgage and subject to such conditions as the Commissioner may prescribe.
(b) Any deficiency in the amount of any such aggregate monthly payment shall, unless made good by the mortgagor prior to, or on, the due date of the next such payment, constitute an event of default under the mortgage.
§ 203.25 Late charge.
The mortgage may provide for the collection by the mortgagee of a late charge, not to exceed four per cent of the amount of each payment more than 15 days in arrears, to cover servicing and other costs attributable to the receipt of payments from mortgagors after the date upon which payment is due.
§ 203.26 Mortgagor’s payments when mortgage is executed.
(a) The mortgagor must pay to the mortgagee, upon execution of the mortgage, a sum that will be sufficient to pay the ground rents, if any, the estimated taxes, special assessments, flood insurance premiums, if required, and fire and other hazard insurance premiums for the period beginning on the last date on which each such charge would have been paid under the normal lending practices of the lender and local custom (if each such date constitutes prudent lending practice), and ending on the due date of the first full installment payment under the mortgage, plus an amount sufficient to pay the mortgage insurance premium from the date of closing the loan to the date of the first monthly payment under the mortgage or, where applicable, the one-time mortgage insurance premium payable pursuant to § 203.280.
(b) The mortgagee may also collect from the mortgagor a sum not exceeding one-sixth of the estimated total amount of such taxes, special assessments, insurance premiums and other charges to be paid during the ensuing 12-month period.
§ 203.27 Charges, fees or discounts.
(a) The mortgagee may collect from the mortgagor the following charges, fees or discounts:
(1) [Reserved]
(2) A charge to compensate the mortgagee for expenses incurred in originating and closing the loan, provided that the Commissioner may establish limitations on the amount of any such charge.
(3) Reasonable and customary amounts, but not more than the amount actually paid by the mortgagee, for any of the following items:
(i) Recording fees and recording taxes or other charges incident to recordation;
(ii) Credit Report;
(iii) Survey, if required by mortgagee or mortgagor;
(iv) Title examination; title insurance, if any;
(v) Fees paid to an appraiser or inspector approved by the Commissioner for the appraisal and inspection, if required, of the property. Notwithstanding any limitations in this paragraph (a)(3) if the mortgagee is permitted by applicable regulations to use the services of staff appraisers and inspectors for processing mortgages, and does so, the mortgagee may collect from the mortgagor the reasonable and customary amounts for such appraisals and inspections.
(vi) Such other reasonable and customary charges as may be authorized by the Commissioner.
(4) Reasonable and customary charges in the nature of discounts.
(5) Interest from the date of closing or the date on which the mortgagee disburses the mortgage proceeds to the account of the mortgagor or the mortgagor’s creditors, whichever is later, to the date of the beginning of amortization.
(b)-(c) [Reserved]
(d) Before the insurance of any mortgage, the mortgagee shall furnish to the Secretary a signed statement in a form satisfactory to the Secretary listing any charge, fee or discount collected by the mortgagee from the mortgagor. All charges, fees or discounts are subject to review by the Secretary both before and after endorsement under § 203.255.
(e) Nothing in this section will be construed as prohibiting the mortgagor from dealing through a broker who does not represent the mortgagee, if he prefers to do so, and paying such compensation as is satisfactory to the mortgagor in order to obtain mortgage financing.
§ 203.28 Economic soundness of projects.
The mortgage must be executed with respect to a project which, in the opinion of the Commissioner, is economically sound, except that this section shall not apply in each of the following instances:
(a) To a mortgage of the character described in § 203.18(d) and with respect to such a mortgage, the Commissioner shall determine that the mortgage is an acceptable risk giving consideration to the need for providing adequate housing for families of low and moderate income, particularly in suburban and outlying areas or small communities.
(b) To a mortgage of the character described in § 203.18 (e).
(c) To a mortgage of the character described in § 203.43a.
(d) To a mortgage in a federally impacted area described in § 203.43e.
(e) To a rehabilitation loan of the character described in § 203.50.
§ 203.29 Eligible mortgages in Alaska, Guam, Hawaii, or the Virgin Islands.
(a) When is an increased mortgage limit permitted for these areas? For Alaska, Guam, Hawaii or the Virgin Islands, the Commissioner may increase the maximum mortgage amount permitted by section 203(b)(2)(A) of the National Housing Act when authorized by section 214 of that Act, through the procedures described in § 203.18(h).
(b) If a party believes that the otherwise applicable mortgage limit needs to be increased to reflect the extent to which high costs make it infeasible to construct dwellings without sacrificing sound standards of construction, design or livability, the party may submit documentation in support of an alternative mortgage limit. This documentation should include actual or estimated costs of such items as design, construction, materials, and labor. In addition, actual sales prices of new homes may be submitted, together with any other documentation requested by the Commissioner. Requests for alternative mortgage limits, together with supporting documentation should be sent to the appropriate HUD field office. The field office will forward the request and supporting material, with the field office’s recommendation, to the Commissioner for determination.
(c) If the Alaska Housing Authority, or the Government of Guam, Hawaii, or the Virgin Islands or any agency or instrumentality of those entities, is the mortgagor or the mortgagee, or the mortgagor is regulated or restricted as to rents or sales, charges, capital structure, rate of return, and methods of operation to such an extent and in such manner as the Commissioner determines advisable to provide reasonable rental and sales prices and a reasonable return on the investment, any mortgage otherwise eligible for insurance under this subpart may be insured:
(1) In any case where the Alaska Housing Authority, or the government of Guam, Hawaii, the Virgin Islands, or any agency or instrumentality of those entities, is the mortgagor, without regard to any requirement that the mortgagor occupy the dwelling as a principal residence or a secondary residence (as these terms are defined in § 203.18(f)), or meet loan-to-value or comparable limitations based on the failure of the mortgagor to meet this occupancy requirement;
(2) Without regard to any requirement that the mortgagor has paid on account of the property a prescribed percentage of the appraised value of the property; or
(3) Without regard to any requirement that the mortgagor certify that the mortgaged property is free and clear of all liens other than the mortgage offered for insurance and that there will not be any unpaid obligations contracted in connection with the mortgage transaction or the purchase of the mortgaged property.
(d) The provisions of § 203.28 requiring economic soundness shall not be applicable to mortgages covering property located in Alaska, in Guam, in Hawaii, or in the Virgin Islands, but the Commissioner shall find that the property or project is an acceptable risk, giving consideration to the acute housing shortage in Alaska, Guam, Hawaii, or the Virgin Islands.
§ 203.30 Certificate of nondiscrimination by the mortgagor.
The mortgagor shall certify to the Commissioner as to each of the following points:
(a) That neither he, nor anyone authorized to act for him, will refuse to sell or rent, after the making of a bonafide offer, or refuse to negotiate for the sale or rental of, or otherwise make unavailable or deny the dwelling or property covered by the mortgage to any person because of race, color, religion, national origin, familial status (except as provided by law), or handicap.
(b) That any restrictive covenant on such property relating to race, color, religion, or national origin is recognized as being illegal and void and is hereby specifically disclaimed.
(c) That civil action for preventative relief may be brought by the Attorney General in any appropriate U.S. District Court against any person responsible for a violation of this certification.
(d) That buildings having four (4) or more units, which were built for first occupancy after March 13, 1991, were constructed in compliance with the Fair Housing Act new construction requirements in 24 CFR 100.205.
§ 203.31 Mortgagor of a principal residence in military service cases.
(a) A mortgage that is otherwise eligible for insurance under any of the provisions of this part may be insured without regard to any requirement contained in this part that the mortgagor occupy the dwelling as a principal residence (as defined in § 203.18(f)(1)) at the time of insurance, or that the mortgagor meet loan-to-value or comparable limitations based on the failure of the mortgagor to meet an occupancy requirement, if:
(1) The Commissioner is satisfied that the inability of the mortgagor to meet the occupancy requirement is by reason of his or her entry into military service after the filing of an application for insurance; and
(2) The mortgagor expresses an intent (in such form as the Commissioner may prescribe), to meet the occupancy requirement upon his or her discharge from the service.
(b) A serviceperson will also be considered to meet the occupancy requirement referred to in paragraph (a) of this section for mortgage insurance purposes, if the following conditions are satisfied:
(1) The serviceperson and his or her family expect to meet the occupancy requirement referred to in paragraph (a) of this section for two or more years. The Commissioner may shorten this period to one year, if (i) the serviceperson’s family will occupy the property for at least one year and (ii) the serviceperson is assigned to a combat zone or other hazardous duty area where the family cannot accompany him or her; and
(2) The property is located in an area in which the prospects of resale are reasonable.
Eligible Mortgagors
§ 203.32 Mortgage lien.
(a) Except as otherwise provided in this section, a mortgagor must establish that, after the mortgage offered for insurance has been recorded, the mortgaged property will be free and clear of all liens other than such mortgage, and that there will not be outstanding any other unpaid obligations contracted in connection with the mortgage transaction or the purchase of the mortgaged property, except obligations that are secured by property or collateral owned by the mortgagor independently of the mortgaged property.
(b) With prior approval of the Secretary, the mortgaged property may be subject to a secondary mortgage or loan made or insured, or other secondary lien held, by a Federal, State, or local government agency or instrumentality, or an entity designated in the homeownership plan submitted by an applicant for an implementation grant under the Homeownership and Opportunity for People Everywhere (HOPE) program, or an eligible nonprofit organization as defined in § 203.41(a)(5) of this part, provided that the required monthly payments under the insured mortgage and the secondary mortgage or lien shall not exceed the mortgagor’s reasonable ability to pay as determined by the Secretary.
(c) With the prior approval of the Secretary, the mortgaged property may be subject to a second mortgage held by a mortgagee not described in paragraph (b) of this section. Unless the mortgage is for the purpose described in paragraph (d) of this section, it shall meet the following requirements:
(1) The required monthly payments under the insured mortgage and the second mortgage shall not exceed the mortgagor’s reasonable ability to pay, as determined by the Commissioner;
(2) Periodic payments, if any, shall be collected monthly and be substantially the same;
(3) The sum of the principal amount of the insured mortgage and the second mortgage shall not exceed the loan-to-value limitation applicable to the insured mortgage, and shall not exceed the maximum mortgage limit for the area;
(4) The repayment terms shall not provide for a balloon payment before ten years, or for such other term as the Commissioner may approve, except that the mortgage may become due and payable on sale or refinancing of the secured property covered by the insured mortgage; and
(5) The mortgage shall contain a provision permitting the mortgagor to prepay the mortgage in whole or in part at any time, and shall not provide for the payment of any charge on account of such prepayment.
(d)(1) With the prior approval of the Commissioner, the mortgaged property may be subject to a junior (second or third) mortgage securing the repayment of funds advanced to reduce the mortgagor’s monthly payments on the insured mortgage following the date it is insured, if the junior mortgage meets the following requirements:
(i) The junior mortgage shall not provide for any payment of principal or interest until the property securing the junior mortgage is sold or the insured mortgage is refinanced, at which time the junior mortgage shall become due and payable;
(ii) The total amount of repayments under the junior mortgage shall not exceed the least of:
(A) One-half of the mortgagor’s equity interest in the property at the time of sale or refinancing;
(B) Three times the amount of funds advanced to effect the interest rate buy-down; or
(C) The sum of the original loan amount plus the total accrued interest on the junior mortgage at the time of repayment; and
(iii) The junior mortgage shall contain a provision permitting the mortgagor to prepay the mortgage in whole or in part at any time, and shall not provide for the payment of any charge on account of such prepayment. Any full or partial prepayment will not be recoverable by the mortgagor if, by application of paragraph (d)(1)(ii) on sale or refinancing of the property, a lesser amount than the amount prepaid would have been due.
(2) The sum of the principal amount of the insured mortgage, any second mortgage made under paragraph (b) or (c) of this section, and the mortgage securing the repayment of funds advanced to reduce the borrower’s monthly payments (whether a second or third mortgage) may exceed the loan-to-value limitation applicable to the insured mortgage, but such sum may not exceed the maximum mortgage limit for the area.
§ 203.33 Relationship of income to mortgage payments.
(a) Adequacy of mortgagor’s gross income. A mortgagor must establish, to the satisfaction of the Secretary, that his or her gross income is and will be adequate to meet (1) the periodic payments required by the mortgage submitted for insurance and (2) other long-term obligations.
(b) Determinations of adequacy of mortgagor income under this section shall be made in a uniform manner without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, handicap, marital status, actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity, source of income of the mortgagor, or location of the property.
§ 203.34 Credit standing.
A mortgagor must have a general credit standing satisfactory to the Commissioner.
§ 203.35 Disclosure and verification of Social Security and Employer Identification Numbers.
To be eligible for mortgage insurance under this part, the mortgagor must meet the requirements for the disclosure and verification of Social Security and Employer Identification Numbers, as provided by part 200, subpart U, of this chapter.
§ 203.36 [Reserved]
Eligible Properties
§ 203.37 Nature of title to realty.
A mortgage, to be eligible for insurance, must be on real estate held in fee simple, or on leasehold under a lease for not less than 99 years which is renewable, or under a lease having a period of not less than 10 years to run beyond the maturity date of the mortgage.
§ 203.37a Sale of property.
(a) Sale by owner of record – (1) Owner of record requirement. To be eligible for a mortgage insured by FHA, the property must be purchased from the owner of record and the transaction may not involve any sale or assignment of the sales contract.
(2) Supporting documentation. The mortgagee shall obtain documentation verifying that the seller is the owner of record and must submit this documentation to HUD as part of the application for mortgage insurance, in accordance with § 203.255(b)(12). This documentation may include, but is not limited to, a property sales history report, a copy of the recorded deed from the seller, or other documentation (such as a copy of a property tax bill, title commitment, or binder) demonstrating the seller’s ownership.
(b) Time restrictions on re-sales – (1) General. The eligibility of a property for a mortgage insured by FHA is dependent on the time that has elapsed between the date the seller acquired the property (based upon the date of settlement) and the date of execution of the sales contract that will result in the FHA mortgage insurance (the re-sale date). The mortgagee shall obtain documentation verifying compliance with the time restrictions described in this paragraph and must submit this documentation to HUD as part of the application for mortgage insurance, in accordance with § 203.255(b).
(2) Re-sales occurring 90 days or less following acquisition. If the re-sale date is 90 days or less following the date of acquisition by the seller, the property is not eligible for a mortgage to be insured by FHA.
(3) Re-sales occurring between 91 days and 180 days following acquisition. (i) If the re-sale date is between 91 days and 180 days following acquisition by the seller, the property is generally eligible for a mortgage insured by FHA.
(ii) However, HUD will require that the mortgagee obtain additional documentation if the re-sale price is 100 percent over the purchase price. Such documentation must include an appraisal from another appraiser. The mortgagee may also document its loan file to support the increased value by establishing that the increased value results from the rehabilitation of the property.
(iii) HUD may revise the level at which additional documentation is required under § 203.37a(b)(3) at 50 to 150 percent over the original purchase price. HUD will revise this level by
(4) Authority to address property flipping for re-sales occurring between 91 days and 12 months following acquisition. (i) If the re-sale date is more than 90 days after the date of acquisition by the seller, but before the end of the twelfth month after the date of acquisition, the property is eligible for a mortgage to be insured by FHA.
(ii) However, HUD may require that the lender provide additional documentation to support the re-sale value of the property if the re-sale price is 5 percent or greater than the lowest sales price of the property during the preceding 12 months (as evidenced by the contract of sale). At HUD’s discretion, such documentation must include, but is not limited to, an appraisal from another appraiser. HUD may exclude re-sales of less than a specific dollar amount from the additional value documentation requirements.
(iii) If the additional value documentation supports a value of the property that is more than 5 percent lower than the value supported by the first appraisal, the lower value will be used to calculate the maximum mortgage amount under § 203.18. Otherwise, the value supported by the first appraisal will be used to calculate the maximum mortgage amount.
(iv) HUD will announce its determination to require additional value documentation through issuance of a
(v) The level at which additional documentation is required under § 203.37a(b)(4) shall supersede that under § 203.37a(b)(3).
(5) Re-sales occurring more than 12 months following acquisition. If the re-sale date is more than 12 months following the date of acquisition by the seller, the property is eligible for a mortgage insured by FHA.
(c) Exceptions to the time restrictions on sales. The time restrictions on sales described in paragraph (b) of this section do not apply to:
(1) Sales by HUD of Real Estate-Owned (REO) properties under 24 CFR part 291 and of single family assets in revitalization areas pursuant to section 204 of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1710);
(2) Sales by another agency of the United States Government of REO single family properties pursuant to programs operated by these agencies;
(3) Sales of properties by nonprofit organizations approved to purchase HUD REO single family properties at a discount with resale restrictions;
(4) Sales of properties that were acquired by the sellers by inheritance;
(5) Sales of properties purchased by an employer or relocation agency in connection with the relocation of an employee;
(6) Sales of properties by state- and federally-chartered financial institutions and government-sponsored enterprises (GSEs);
(7) Sales of properties by local and state government agencies; and
(8) Only upon announcement by HUD through issuance of a notice, sales of properties located in areas designated by the President as federal disaster areas. The notice will specify how long the exception will be in effect.
(d) Sanctions and indemnification. Failure of a mortgagee to comply with the requirements of this section may result in HUD requesting indemnification of the mortgage loan, or seeking other appropriate remedies under 24 CFR part 25.
§ 203.38 Location of dwelling.
At the time a mortgage is insured there must be located on the mortgaged property one or more dwellings designed principally for residential use for not more than four families.
§ 203.39 Standards for buildings.
The buildings on the mortgaged property must conform with the standards prescribed by the Commissioner.
§ 203.40 Location of property.
The mortgaged property shall be located within the United States, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Virgin Islands, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and American Samoa. The mortgaged property, if otherwise acceptable to the Commissioner, may be located in any community where the housing standards meet the requirements of the Commissioner.
§ 203.41 Free assumability; exceptions.
(a) Definitions. As used in this section:
(1) Low- or moderate-income housing means housing which is designed to be affordable, taking into account available financing, to individuals or families whose household income does not exceed 115 percent of the median income for the area, as determined by the Secretary with adjustments for smaller and larger families. The Secretary may approve a higher percentage up to 140 percent.
(2) Eligible governmental or nonprofit program means a program operated pursuant to a program established by Federal law, operated by a State or local government, or operated by an eligible nonprofit organization, if the program is designed to assist the purchase of low-or moderate-income housing including rental housing.
(3) Legal restrictions on conveyance means any provision in any legal instrument, law or regulation applicable to the mortgagor or the mortgaged property, including but not limited to a lease, deed, sales contract, declaration of covenants, declaration of condominium, option, right of first refusal, will, or trust agreement, that attempts to cause a conveyance (including a lease) made by the mortgagor to:
(i) Be void or voidable by a third party;
(ii) Be the basis of contractual liability of the mortgagor for breach of an agreement not to convey, including rights of first refusal, pre-emptive rights or options related to mortgagor efforts to convey;
(iii) Terminate or subject to termination all or a part of the interest held by the mortgagor in the mortgaged property if a conveyance is attempted;
(iv) Be subject to the consent of a third party;
(v) Be subject to limits on the amount of sales proceeds retainable by the seller; or
(vi) Be grounds for acceleration of the insured mortgage or increase in the interest rate.
(4) Tax-exempt bond financing means financing which is funded in whole or in part by the proceeds of qualified mortgage bonds described in section 143 of the Internal Revenue code of 1986, or any successor section, on which the interest is exempt from Federal income tax. The term does not include financing by qualified veterans’ mortgage bonds as defined in section 143(b) of the Code.
(5) Eligible nonprofit organization means an organization of the type described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 as an organization exempt under section 501(a) of the Code, which has:
(i) Two years experience as a provider of low- or moderate-income housing;
(ii) A voluntary board; and
(iii) No part of its net earnings inuring to the benefit of any member, founder, contributor or individual.
(b) Policy of free assumability with no restrictions. A mortgage shall not be eligible for insurance if the mortgaged property is subject to legal restrictions on conveyance, except as permitted by this part.
(c) Exception for eligible governmental or nonprofit programs. Legal restrictions on conveyance are acceptable if:
(1) The restrictions are part of an eligible governmental or nonprofit program and are permitted by paragraph (d) of this section; and
(2) The restrictions will automatically terminate if title to the mortgaged property is transferred by foreclosure or deed-in-lieu of foreclosure, or if the mortgage is assigned to the Secretary.
(d) Exception for eligible governmental or nonprofit programs – specific policies. For purposes of paragraph (c) of this section, restrictions of the following types are permitted for eligible governmental or nonprofit programs, provided that a violation of legal restrictions on conveyance may not be grounds for acceleration of the insured mortgaged or for an increase in the interest rate, or for voiding a conveyance of the mortgagor’s interest in the property, terminating the mortgagor’s interest in the property, or subjecting the mortgagor to contractual liability other than requiring repayment (at a reasonable rate of interest) of assistance provided to make the property affordable as low- or moderate-income housing:
(1) Except as otherwise provided in the HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) and the Homeownership and Opportunity for People Everywhere (HOPE) programs, the mortgagor may be prohibited from selling the property at a price greater than the price permitted under the program, or the mortgagor may be required to pay a portion of the sales proceeds to a governmental body or an eligible nonprofit organization, as long as the mortgagor is not prohibited from recovering:
(i) The sum of the mortgagor’s original purchase price, the mortgagor’s reasonable costs of sale, the reasonable costs of improvements made by the mortgagor, and any negative amortization on a graduated payment mortgage insured under § 203.45 of this part; and
(ii) A reasonable share, as determined by the Secretary, of the appreciation in value which shall be the sales price reduced by the sum determined under paragraph (d)(1)(i) of this section.
(2) Legal restrictions on conveyance may extend beyond the term of the mortgage, subject to paragraph (c)(2) of this section and any limitations applicable in the jurisdiction.
(3) Except as otherwise required by the HOME and HOPE programs, rights under an option to purchase, pre-emptive rights to purchase or rights of first refusal shall only be held by a governmental body or eligible nonprofit organization, or another individual or organization approved by the Secretary, and shall be exercised by them (or an assignee who will purchase and occupy the property) only within a reasonable time after the event permitting exercise of the rights occurs, not to exceed a period of time determined by the Secretary. The Secretary may approve another individual or organization under the preceding sentence even if the restriction is not part of an eligible governmental or nonprofit program.
(4) In addition to the restrictions stated in paragraph (d)(3) of this section, the purchase price under an option may not be less than the sum of the mortgagor’s original purchase price, the mortgagor’s reasonable costs of sale, the reasonable costs of improvements made by seller, and a reasonable share, as determined by the Secretary, of the appreciation in value.
(5) The mortgagor may be required to continue to be an owner-occupant.
(6) The mortgagor may be limited in his or her ability to choose a purchaser for the property, but only to the extent necessary to ensure that the property is preserved as low- or moderate-income housing.
(7) The mortgagor for a rehabilitation loan insured under § 203.50 of this part may hold title subject to a condition subsequent, provided that the holder of the right of entry for condition broken also executes the mortgage, and that the right is exercisable only for failure by the mortgagor to complete the rehabilitation or occupy the property as agreed by the mortgagor.
(8) Property may be subject to a legal restriction on conveyance to the extent approved in writing by an authorized representative of the Secretary prior to September 10, 1993.
(e) Exception for tax-exempt bond financing. A mortgage may be funded through tax-exempt bond financing and may include a due-on-sale provision in a form approved by the Secretary which permits the mortgagee to accelerate a mortgage that no longer meets Federal requirements for tax-exempt bond financing or for other reasons acceptable to the Secretary. Except as provided in this paragraph (e), a mortgage funded through tax-exempt bond financing shall comply with all form requirements prescribed under § 203.17(a) of this part and shall contain no other provisions designed to enforce compliance with Federal or State requirements for tax-exempt bond financing. Other legal restrictions on conveyance are permitted as provided in other paragraphs of this section.
(f) Exception for protective covenants excluding non-elderly. Mortgaged property may be subject to protective covenants which prohibit or restrict occupancy by, or transfer to, persons who are not elderly if:
(1) The restrictions do not have an undue effect on marketability; and
(2) The restrictions do not constitute illegal discrimination and are consistent with the Fair Housing Act and all other applicable nondiscrimination laws.
(g) Exceptions for specific jurisdictions. Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph (b) of this section, mortgages insured on certain Indian land or Hawaiian home lands under sections 247 and 248 of the National Housing Act and §§ 203.43h and 203.43i of this part, or on property in the Northern Mariana Islands or American Samoa, shall not be ineligible for insurance under this section solely because applicable law does not permit free alienability of title to all persons.
§ 203.42 Rental properties.
(a) A mortgage on property upon which there is a dwelling to be rented by the mortgagor shall not be eligible for insurance if the property is a part of, or adjacent or contiguous to, a project, or group of similar rental properties, in which the mortgagor has a financial interest in eight or more dwelling units.
(b) Paragraph (a) of this section shall not apply where:
(1) A mortgage qualifies as a rehabilitation loan under § 203.50 of this part;
(2) The mortgage is to be used for the rehabilitation of property located in a specific area or neighborhood that has been targeted by a State or local government for redevelopment, in accordance with a specific program that involves substantial public or private commitments in support of neighborhood improvement or redevelopment; and
(3) The State or local government has approved, and has submitted to the Commissioner a plan describing the program of neighborhood redevelopment and revitalization, including the geographic area targeted for redevelopment, and the nature and proportion of public or private commitments that have been made in support of the redevelopment program.
(c) No two-, three-, or four-family dwelling, and no single-family dwelling, if it is part of a group of five or more single-family dwellings held by the same mortgagor, or any part or unit thereof, shall be rented or offered for rent for transient or hotel purposes, as defined in § 203.16, so long as the dwelling is subject to any insured mortgage.
§ 203.43 Eligibility of miscellaneous type mortgages.
(a) A mortgage which meets the requirements of this subpart, except as modified by this section, shall be eligible for insurance under this subpart subject to compliance with the additional requirements of this section.
(b) The mortgage may be accepted for insurance if:
(1) Executed in connection with the sale by the Government, or any agency or official thereof, of any housing acquired or constructed under Public Law 849, Seventy-sixth Congress, as amended; Public Law 781, Seventy-sixth Congress, as amended; or Public Law 9, 73 or 353, Seventy-seventh Congress, as amended (including any property acquired, held or constructed in connection with such housing or to serve the inhabitants thereof); or
(2) Executed in connection with the sale by the Public Housing Administration, or by any public housing agency with the approval of the said Administration, or any housing (including any property acquired, held or constructed in connection with such housing or to serve the inhabitants thereof) owned or financially assisted pursuant to the provisions of Public Law 671, Seventy-sixth Congress; or
(3) Executed in connection with the sale by the Government, or any agency or official thereof, or any of the so-called Greenbelt towns, or parts thereof, including projects, or parts thereof, known as Greenhills, OH; Greenbelt, MD; and Greendale, WI, developed under the Emergency Relief Appropriation Act of 1935; or of any of the village properties or employee’s housing under the jurisdiction of the Tennessee Valley Authority; or of any housing under the jurisdiction of the Department of the Interior located within the town area of Coulee Dam, WA, acquired by the United States for the construction, operation, and maintenance of Grand Coulee Dam and its appurtenant works or of any permanent housing under the jurisdiction of the Department of the Interior constructed under the Boulder Canyon Project Act of December 21, 1928, as amended and supplemented, located within the Boulder City municipal area; or
(4) Executed in connection with the sale by the Government, or any agency or official thereof, of any housing (including any property acquired, held, or constructed in connection therewith or to serve the inhabitants thereof) pursuant to the Atomic Energy Community Act of 1955, as amended: Provided, That such insurance shall be issued without regard to any preferences or priorities except those prescribed by the National Housing Act or the Atomic Energy Community Act of 1955, as amended; or
(5) Executed in connection with the sale by a State or municipality, or an agency, instrumentality, or political subdivision of either, of a project consisting of any permanent housing (including any property acquired, held or constructed in connection therewith or to serve the inhabitants thereof), constructed by or on behalf of such State, municipality, agency, instrumentality or political subdivision, for the occupancy of veterans (persons who have served in the active military or naval service of the United States at any time on or after September 16, 1940, and prior to July 26, 1947, or on or after June 27, 1950, and prior to February 1, 1955) their families and others: Provided, That the principal obligation of a mortgage referred to in this paragraph shall not exceed 90 percent of the appraised value of the mortgaged property; or
(6) Executed in connection with the first resale, within two years from the date of its acquisition from the Government, of any portion of a project or property of the character described in paragraphs (b) (1), (2), (3), and (4) of this section.
(c) The Commissioner may insure under this part, without regard to any limitation upon eligibility contained in the other provisions of this subpart, any mortgage given to refinance an existing mortgage insured under the National Housing Act. The refinancing mortgage must meet the following special requirements:
(1)(i) Except as provided by paragraph (c)(1)(ii) of this section, the refinancing mortgage must be in an amount that does not exceed the least of (A) the original principal amount of the existing mortgage; (B) the sum of the outstanding principal balance of the existing mortgage, plus loan closing charges approved by the Commissioner; or (C) in the case of an eligible non-occupant mortgagor (as defined in § 203.18(f)), the outstanding balance of the existing mortgage.
(ii) In the case of graduated payment mortgages insured under section 203 of the Act pursuant to section 245 (a) or (b) of the Act (§ 203.45 or § 203.46 [as in effect immediately before its removal at 52 FR 32754, published August 28, 1987]), the refinancing mortgage must have a principal amount that does not exceed the outstanding balance of the existing mortgage.
(iii) If a one-time mortgage insurance premium (MIP) was financed as part of the existing mortgage referred to in paragraphs (c)(1) (i) and (ii) of this section, the amount of the premium refund to which the mortgagor is entitled must be deducted in determining the original principal amount and the unpaid principal balance of the existing mortgage under paragraph (c)(1)(i) of this section and the outstanding balance of the existing mortgage under paragraph (c)(1)(ii) of this section. However, the maximum amount of the refinancing mortgage computed in accordance with this paragraph (c)(1) may be increased by the amount of the one-time MIP (if any) associated with the refinancing mortgage;
(2) It must have a term which does not exceed the unexpired term of the existing mortgage, except that in any case where the Commissioner determines that an extension of the term of the mortgage will inure to the benefit of the applicable insurance fund, taking into consideration the outstanding insurance liability under the existing insured mortgage, the term may be extended to the lesser of (i) 30 years or (ii) the unexpired term of the existing mortgage, plus 12 years;
(3) The mortgage must result in a reduction in regular monthly payments by the mortgagor, except:
(i) When a fixed rate mortgage is given to refinance an adjustable rate mortgage held by a mortgagor who is to occupy the dwelling as a principal residence or secondary residence, as these terms are defined in § 203.18(f); or
(ii) When refinancing a mortgage for a shorter term will result in an increase in the mortgagor’s regular monthly payments of no more than $50. In the case of a graduated payment mortgage, the reduction in regular monthly payments means a reduction from the payment due under the existing mortgage for the month in which the refinancing mortgage is executed.
(4) It must be made by a mortgagor whose record of payment on the existing mortgage meets standards established by the Commissioner; and
(5) The mortgagee may not require a minimum principal amount to be outstanding on the loan secured by the existing mortgage.
(d)-(f) [Reserved]
(g) The provisions of § 203.28 shall not apply to mortgages insured under this section.
(h) The provisions of § 203.38 shall not apply to mortgages of the character described in paragraph (b) of this section and at the time any such mortgage is insured there must be located on the mortgaged property a dwelling unit designed principally for residential use for not more than eight families.
(i)-(j) [Reserved]
(k) The Commissioner may insure under this part, without regard to any limitation upon eligibility contained in this subpart, any mortgage assigned to the Commissioner in connection with payment under a contract of mortgage insurance, or executed in connection with a sale by the Commissioner of any property acquired in the settlement of an insurance claim under any section or title of the National Housing Act.
§ 203.43a Eligibility of mortgages covering housing in certain neighborhoods.
(a) A mortgage financing the repair, rehabilitation, construction, or purchase of property located in an older declining urban area shall be eligible for insurance under this subpart subject to compliance with the additional requirements of this section.
(b) The mortgage shall meet all of the requirements of this subpart, except such requirements as are judged to be not applicable on the basis of the following determinations to be made by the Commissioner:
(1) That the conditions of the area in which the property is located prevent the application of certain eligibility requirements of this subpart.
(2) That the area is reasonably viable, and there is a need in the area for adequate housing for families of low and moderate income.
(3) That the mortgage to be insured is an acceptable risk.
(c) Mortgages complying with the requirements of this section shall be insured under this subpart pursuant to section 223(e) of the National Housing Act. Such mortgages shall be insured under and be the obligation of the Special Risk Insurance Fund.
(d) For restrictions against approving mortgage insurance for a certain category of newly legalized alien, see 24 CFR part 49.
§ 203.43b Eligibility of mortgages on single-family condominium units.
(a) Definitions. As used in this part:
(1) Condominium Association (Association) means the organization, regardless of its formal legal name that consists of homeowners within a Condominium Project for the purpose of managing the financial and common-area assets.
(2) Condominium Project means the project in which one-family dwelling units are attached, semi-detached, detached, or manufactured housing units, and in which owners hold an undivided interest in the Common Elements.
(3) Condominium Unit means real estate consisting of a one-family dwelling unit in a Condominium Project.
(4) Common Elements means the Condominium Project’s common areas and facilities including: Underlying land and buildings, driveways, parking areas, elevators, outside hallways, recreation and landscaped areas, and other elements described in the condominium declaration.
(5) Rental for Transient or Hotel Purposes shall have the meaning given in section 513(e) of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1731b(e)).
(6) Single-Unit Approval means approval of one unit in an unapproved Condominium Project under paragraph (i) of this section.
(7) Site Condominium means:
(i) A Condominium Project that consists entirely of single-family detached dwellings that have no shared garages or any other attached buildings; or
(ii) A Condominium Project that:
(A) Consists of single family detached or horizontally attached (townhouse) dwellings where the unit consists of the dwelling and land; and
(B) Is encumbered by a declaration of condominium covenants or condominium form of ownership and does not contain any manufactured housing units.
(b) Eligibility. A mortgage secured by a Condominium Unit shall be eligible for insurance under section 203 of the National Housing Act if it meets the requirements of this subpart, except as modified by this section.
(c) Approval required. To be eligible for insurance under this section, a Condominium Unit must be located in a Condominium Project approved by HUD or a DELRAP mortgagee approved under § 203.8, or meet the additional requirements for approval as a Site Condominium or Single-Unit Approval.
(d) Condominium Project Approval: Eligibility Requirements. To be eligible for Condominium Project approval, the Condominium Project must:
(1) Be primarily residential in nature and not be intended for rental for Transient or Hotel Purposes;
(2) Consist of units that are solely one-family units;
(3) Be in full compliance with all applicable Federal, State, and local laws with respect to zoning, Fair Housing, and accessibility for persons with disabilities, including, but not limited to, the Fair Housing Act, 42 U.S.C. 3601 et seq., Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, 29 U.S.C. 794, and the Americans with Disabilities Act, 42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq., where relevant;
(4) Be complete and ready for occupancy, including completion of all the common elements of the project, and not subject to further rehabilitation, construction, phasing, or annexation, except to the extent that approval is sought for legal phasing in compliance with the requirements of paragraph (e) of this section;
(5) Be reviewed and approved by the local jurisdiction with respect to the condominium plat or similar development plan and any phases; if applicable, the approved plat or development plan must have been recorded in the land records of the jurisdiction; and
(6) Meet such further approval requirements as provided by the Commissioner through notices with respect to:
(i) Nature of title to realty or leasehold interests;
(ii) Control over, and organization of, the Condominium Association;
(iii) Minimum insurance coverage for the Condominium Project;
(iv) Planned or actual special assessments;
(v) Financial condition of the Condominium Project, including, but not limited to, the allowable percentage of units owned by a single owner or group of related owners;
(vi) Existence of any pending legal action, or physical property condition;
(vii) Acceptable maximum percentages of commercial/non-residential space, which must be within a range between 25 and 55 percent of the total floor area (which range may be changed following the procedures in paragraph (f) of this section), with the specific maximum and minimum percentages within that range to be established by HUD through notice, provided that such commercial/non-residential space does not negatively impact the residential use of the project or create adverse conditions to the occupants of individual condominium units.
(viii) Acceptable maximum percentages of units with FHA-insured mortgages, which must be within a range between 25 and 75 percent of the total number of units in the project (which range may be changed following the procedures in paragraph (f) of this section), with the specific maximum percentage of units with FHA-insured mortgages within that range to be established by HUD through notice. HUD may suspend the issuance of new FHA case numbers for a mortgage on a property located in any project where the number of FHA-insured mortgages exceeds the maximum insurance concentration established by HUD.
(ix) Acceptable minimum level of owner occupancy, which shall include units occupied as a principal or secondary residence or sold to an owner who intends to meet such occupancy requirements. Such acceptable minimum levels shall be within a range between 30 and 75 percent of the total number of units in the project (which range may be changed following the procedures in paragraph (f) of this section), with a specific minimum percentage to be established by HUD through notice. For the sole purpose of calculating the owner-occupancy percentage under this paragraph, any unit that is occupied by the owner as his or her place of abode for any portion of the calendar year other than as a principal residence and that is not rented for a majority of the calendar year shall count towards the total number of secondary residences.
(x) Reserve requirements, provided the reserve account is funded with at least 10 percent of the monthly unit assessments, unless a lower amount is deemed acceptable by HUD based on a reserve study completed not more than 36 months before a request for a lower amount is received, or such greater amount of time as determined by the Secretary under the HUD review and approval process.
(xi) Such other matters that may affect the viability or marketability of the project or its units.
(e) Phases of a project are approvable, provided that only legal phasing is used. Individual phases must be separately sustainable as required by HUD, so that the insurance fund is not put at undue risk. In determining whether to accept legal phasing, HUD will assess the potential risk to the insurance fund and other factors that HUD may publish in notices. Phases must meet HUD’s requirements for approval in paragraph (d) of this section and must at a minimum be:
(1) In a vertical building, contiguous, with all units built out and having a certificate of occupancy; or
(2) In a detached or semi-detached development, where all homes in the phase are built out and have a certificate of occupancy;
(f) The Secretary will publish any generally applicable change in the upper and lower limits of the ranges of percentages in paragraphs (d)(6)(vii) through (ix) of this section in a notice published for 30 days of public comment. After considering the comments, the Department will publish a final notice announcing the new overall upper and lower limits of the range of percentages being implemented, and the date on which the new standard becomes effective.
(g) The Secretary may grant an exception to any specifically prescribed requirements within paragraph (d)(6) of this section on a case-by-case basis in HUD’s discretion, provided that:
(1) In the case of an exception to the approval requirements for the commercial/nonresidential space percentage that HUD establishes under paragraph (d)(6)(vii) of this section, any request for such an exception and the determination of the disposition of such request may be made, at the option of the requester, under the Direct Endorsement Lender Review and Approval process or under the HUD review and approval process through the applicable field office of the Department; and
(2) In determining whether to allow such an exception, factors relating to the economy for the locality in which the project is located or specific to the project, including the total number of family units in the project, shall be considered. A DELRAP lender, in determining whether to grant a requested exception, shall follow any procedures that HUD may establish.
(h) Application for Condominium Project approval and Renewal of Approval. (1) In order to become approved, an application for Condominium Project approval, in accordance with the requirements of the Commissioner, must be submitted to either HUD or a DELRAP mortgagee, if consistent with the mortgagee’s DELRAP approval.
(2) The application will be reviewed and if all eligibility criteria have been met, the Condominium Project will be approved and placed on the list of HUD-approved Condominium Projects.
(3) Unless otherwise specified in writing by HUD, Condominium Projects are approved for a period of 3 years from the date of placement on the list of approved condominiums. HUD may rescind a Condominium Project’s approval at any time if the project fails to comply with any requirement for approval.
(4) Eligible parties may request renewal of the approval of an approved Condominium Project by submitting a request for recertification no earlier than 6 months prior to expiration of the approval or no later than 6 months after expiration of the approval. HUD shall specify the format for the recertification request, which shall allow the request to be supported by updating previously submitted information, rather than resubmission of all information. However, if the request for recertification is not submitted within 6 months after the expiration of the Condominium Project’s approval, a complete, new approval application is required.
(i) Single-Unit Approval – (1) Single-Unit Approvals. Mortgagees must ensure that the Condominium Unit is located in a Condominium Project that meets the eligibility requirements for approval as set forth in paragraph (d) of this section as modified by this paragraph, except that HUD may provide that Single-Unit Approvals may be approved by meeting a subset of these standards, or less stringent standards, as stated by notice. In addition, a unit may be eligible for Single-Unit Approval if it:
(i) Is not in a Condominium Project that is on the list of FHA-approved Condominium Projects; and
(ii) Is not in a project that has been identified by HUD as subject to adverse determination for significant issues that affect the viability of the project; and
(iii) Is in a project that is complete under paragraph (d)(4) of this section;
(iv) Is not a manufactured home; and
(v) Is in a project that has at least five (5) dwelling units.
(2) Limit on Single-Unit Approvals. HUD may suspend the issuance of new FHA case numbers for mortgages in Condominium Projects with Single-Unit Approvals where the number of FHA-insured mortgages exceeds the maximum insurance concentration established by HUD. Such acceptable maximum insurance concentration shall be within a range between 0 to 20 percent of units with FHA-insured mortgages for Condominium Projects with 10 or more units, with the exact percentage within that range to be determined by HUD through notice; or shall not exceed two FHA-insured mortgages for Condominium Projects with fewer than 10 units.
(j) Site Condominium. Site Condominiums must meet all of the requirements of paragraphs (d)(1) through (d)(5) of this section for approval, except that insurance and maintenance costs of the individual units must be the sole responsibility of the unit owner.
§ 203.43c Eligibility of mortgages involving a dwelling unit in a cooperative housing development.
A mortgage involving a dwelling unit in a cooperative housing development which meets the requirements of this subpart, except as modified by this section, shall be eligible for insurance under section 203(n) of the National Housing Act.
(a) The provisions of §§ 203.16a, 203.17, 203.18, 203.18a, 203.23, 203.24, 203.26, 203.37, 203.38, 203.43h, 203.43i, 203.43j, 203.44, 203.49, and 203.50 of this part do not apply to mortgages insured under section 203(n) of the National Housing Act.
(b) As used in connection with the insurance of mortgages under this section and § 203.437 of this part: (1) The term mortgage shall mean a first lien given to secure a loan made to finance the unpaid purchase price of a Corporate Certificate together with the applicable Occupancy Certificate of a cooperative ownership housing corporation in which the permanent occupancy of the dwelling units is restricted to members of such corporation, and may refer both to a security instrument creating a lien, whether called a mortgage, deed of trust, security deed or another term used in a particular jurisdiction, as well as the credit instrument, or note, secured thereby.
(2) Corporation shall mean an organization which holds title to a cooperative housing development which is covered by a blanket mortgage or mortgages insured by FHA under the National Housing Act.
(3) Corporate Certificate shall mean such stock certificates, membership certificates, or other instruments which the laws of the jurisdictions in which the cooperative housing development is located require to evidence ownership of a specified interest in the corporation.
(4) Occupancy Certificate shall mean a written instrument provided by the corporation to each holder of a Corporate Certificate which grants an exclusive right of possession of a specific dwelling unit in the cooperative housing development.
(5) References in this subpart to a dwelling, residence or property which is sold, conveyed, covered by a mortgage or subject to a lien shall be construed to mean the Corporate Certificate together with the Occupancy Certificate, except that where such references when interpreted in light of section 203(n) of the National Housing Act clearly indicate the intent to be the dwelling unit, such reference shall mean the dwelling unit identified in the Occupancy Certificate.
(c) The organizational documents of the cooperative corporation must provide that: (1) Either the Secretary or a mortgagee under a mortgage insured under this section shall be a member of the cooperative corporation for so long as either owns a Corporate Certificate;
(2) A mortgage insured under this section shall be a first lien upon the property covered by the mortgage;
(3) The Secretary may exercise the voting rights which are attributable to each Corporate Certificate owned by the Secretary;
(4) The Secretary may designate as her proxy an agent for the purpose of exercising the voting rights of the Secretary which are attributable to the corporate Certificate or Certificates owned by the Secretary;
(5) The Secretary may cease making monthly payments attributable to any dwelling unit for which the Secretary owns a Corporate Certificate six months after the Secretary notifies the corporation to sell the Corporate Certificate or upon default by the corporation on the blanket mortgage covering the dwelling unit;
(6) The Secretary or a mortgagee shall not be obligated to make payments to the corporation for any amounts unpaid by a mortgagor under a mortgage insured under this section prior to the date the Secretary or the mortgagee becomes the owner of the Corporate Certificate.
(d) The corporation shall have entered into an agreement with the Secretary and the mortgagee which: (1) Requires that the corporation shall furnish the Secretary with the most recent annual financial report certified to have been based on generally accepted accounting principles and the most recent monthly or quarterly financial report;
(2) Waives any option or right of first refusal the corporation may have to purchase any Corporate Certificate covered by a mortgage insured under section 203(n) of the National Housing Act, unless the corporation pays the full amount due under such mortgage or pays the full amount of the Secretary’s investment if the Secretary is the owner of the Corporate Certificate, whichever is greater.
(3) Except with the approval of the Secretary, waives all authority the corporation may have to approve or reject the buyer of a Corporate Certificate owned by the Secretary or the buyer of a Corporate Certificate covered by a mortgage insured under Section 203(n) of the National Housing Act.
(4) Requires the corporation on notice by the Secretary to act as her agent for a fee to be determined by the Secretary for the limited purposes of:
(i) Selling all Corporate Certificates of the corporation owned by the Secretary;
(ii) Renting and collecting rents on any dwelling unit for which the Secretary owns the Corporate Certificate.
(5) Provides that the Secretary shall not be obligated to make payments to the corporation for outstanding debts of the mortgagor;
(6) Requires the corporation to furnish to a mortgagee or to the Secretary, on request:
(i) A statement, certified by the officer charged with maintenance of the Corporate Certificate Transfer Book, that such book currently shows that the mortgagee or the Secretary is the owner of any Corporate Certificate transferred to the mortgagee or the Secretary; and
(ii) The Occupancy Certificate in the name of the mortgagee or the Secretary.
(7) Requires the corporation to notify the mortgagee, whose name and address has been provided, of any default in corporation fee payments by the mortgagor within 15 days of such default;
(8) Requires the mortgagee to notify the corporation of any default in mortgage payments by the mortgagor within 15 days of such default;
(9) Requires the corporation upon notice by the Secretary or the mortgagee, when the Secretary or the mortgagee is the owner of the Corporate Certificate, and for a fee to be determined by the Secretary to evict any person or persons from a dwelling unit identified in the Occupancy Certificate.
(10) Contains such other provisions as the Secretary may require.
(e) The mortgagee shall obtain such security and other undertakings as may be required to establish a first lien on the Corporate Certificate and the Occupancy Certificate under the laws of the State where the Cooperative Housing Development is located.
(f) The mortgage involves a one-family dwelling unit in a cooperative housing development which is covered by a blanket mortgage or mortgages insured under the National Housing Act.
(g) The mortgage shall not exceed the balance remaining after subtracting, from the amount determined under §§ 203.18(a), 203.18(g) and 203.18a of this part, an amount equal to the portion of the unpaid balance of the blanket mortgage covering the cooperative development which is attributable to the dwelling unit the mortgagor is entitled to occupy as of the date the mortgage is accepted for insurance.
(h) The mortgage shall be executed upon a form conforming to the applicable provisions of this part and shall:
(1) Involve a principal obligation in multiples of $50.
(2) Come due on the first of the month.
(3) Contain complete amortization provisions satisfactory to the Secretary and an amortization period not in excess of the term of the mortgage.
(4) Be for a term not to exceed 30 years or the remaining term of the blanket mortgage covering the cooperative development or three-quarters of the remaining economic life of the building improvements, whichever is less.
(5) Provide for payments to principal and interest to begin not later than the first day of the month following 60 days from the date the mortgagee’s certificate on the commitment was executed.
(6) Contain a provision stating that the failure of the mortgagor to pay the mortgagor’s share of the common expenses or assessments and charges imposed by the corporation as provided in the instruments establishing the cooperative shall be considered a default.
(i) The entire principal amount of the mortgage must have been disbursed to the mortgagor or to his creditors for his account and with his consent.
(j) The mortgage must be executed by a mortgagor who intends to be an occupant of the unit.
(k) The mortgagee shall collect from the mortgagor upon the execution of the mortgage: (1) A sum that will be sufficient to pay the mortgage insurance premium for the period beginning on the date of the closing of the loan and ending on the date of the first monthly payment under the mortgage or (2), where applicable, the one-time mortgage insurance premium payable pursuant to § 203.280.
(l) The mortgagee shall upon application for a mortgage insurance commitment provide true copies of the following organizational documents of the cooperative corporation for examination and approval by the appropriate HUD Field Office:
(1) Certificate of Incorporation;
(2) Regulatory Agreement;
(3) By-Laws as amended;
(4) The financial statements required in paragraph (d)(1) of this section;
(5) Proposed Occupancy Certificate;
(6) Proposed Corporate Certificate;
§ 203.43d Eligibility of mortgages in certain communities.
Notwithstanding any other requirements of this subpart, a mortgage covering a one- to four-family dwelling occupied by the mortgagor as a principal residence (as defined in § 203.18(f)(1)) is eligible for insurance if the following requirements are met:
(a) The property is located in a community where the Secretary determines that:
(1) Temporary adverse economic conditions exist throughout the community as a direct and primary result of outstanding claims to ownership of land in the community by an American Indian tribe, band, or Nation;
(2) Such ownership claims are reasonably likely to be settled, by court action or otherwise;
(3) As a direct result of the community’s temporarily impaired economic condition, owners of homes in the community occupied as principal residences (as defined in § 203.18(f)(1)) have been involuntarily unemployed or underemployed and have, thus, incurred substantial reductions in income that significantly impair their ability to continue timely payment of their mortgages;
(4) As a result, widespread mortgage foreclosures and distress sales of homes are likely in the community; and
(5) Fifty or more individuals were joined as parties defendant or were members of a defendant class prior to December 31, 1976 in litigation involving claims to ownership of land in the community by an American Indian tribe, band or Nation.
(b) The mortgagor, as a direct result of the community’s temporarily impaired economic condition, has been involuntarily unemployed or underemployed and has thus incurred a substantial reduction in income which significantly impairs the owners ability to continue timely payment of the mortgage.
(c) The mortgagee certifies that the security instrument has been recorded and is a good and valid first lien on the property except for the claims specified in paragraph (a)(1) of this section.
(d) The mortgagee agrees upon insurance of the mortgage to assign such mortgage to the Secretary within 30 days from the date of the issuance of the insurance certificate and if such assignment does not take place, the contract of insurance is terminated and becomes null and void.
(e) Any individual, organization, institution or governmental agency shall be considered a mortgagee for the purposes of this section.
(f) Mortgages complying with the requirements of this section shall be insured under this subpart pursuant to section 203(o) of the National Housing Act. Such mortgages shall be insured under and be the obligation of the Special Risk Insurance Fund.
(g) The mortgage was executed and filed for record on or before October 12, 1977.
§ 203.43e [Reserved]
§ 203.43f Eligibility of mortgages covering manufactured homes.
A mortgage covering a one-family manufactured home (as defined in 24 CFR 3280.2(a)(16)) that meets the requirements of this subpart, except as modified by this section, shall be eligible for insurance pursuant to this subpart.
(a) The manufactured home, when erected on site, shall have floor space area of not less than four hundred square feet and shall have been constructed in conformance with the National Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards as evidenced by a certification label affixed thereto in accordance with 24 CFR 3280.8.
(b) The mortgage shall cover the manufactured home and site, shall constitute a mortgage on a property classified and taxed as real estate, and shall have a term of not more than 30 years from the date of the beginning of amortization.
(c) In the case of a manufactured home which has not been permanently erected on a site for more than one year prior to the date of the application for mortgage insurance:
(i) The manufactured home shall be erected on a site-built permanent foundation that meets or exceeds applicable requirements of the Minimum Property Standards for One- and Two-Family Dwellings, 4900.1 (see 24 CFR 200.929(b)(1)) (MPS) and shall be permanently attached thereto by anchoring devices adequate for all loads identified in the MPS. The towing hitch or running gear, which includes axles, brakes, wheels and other parts of the chassis that operate only during transportation, shall have been removed. The finished grade level beneath the manufactured home shall be at or above the 100-year return frequency flood elevation. The site, site improvements, and all other features of the mortgaged property not addressed by the Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards shall meet or exceed applicable requirements of the MPS.
(ii) The space beneath the manufactured home shall be enclosed by continuous foundation-type construction designed to resist all forces to which it is subject without transmitting forces to the building superstructure. The enclosure shall be adequately secured to the perimeter of the manufactured home and be constructed of materials that conform to MPS requirements for foundations.
(iii) The manufactured home shall have an overall coefficient of heat transmission (“U
(iv) The manufactured home shall be braced and stiffened before it leaves the factory to resist racking and potential damage during transportation.
(v) The conditions of § 203.18(a)(2) (i) and (ii) of this subpart shall not apply to construction of the manufactured home but shall be applicable to improvement of the site, including construction of the site-built foundation.
(vi) Section 203.14 of this subpart is modified to the extent provided in this paragraph. Applications relating to insurance of mortgages under this paragraph (c) must be accompanied by an agreement in form satisfactory to the Commissioner executed by the seller or builder or such other person as the Commissioner may require agreeing that in the event of any sale or conveyance of the dwelling within a period of one year beginning with the date of initial occupancy, the seller, builder, or such other person will at the time of such sale or conveyance deliver to the purchaser or owner of such property the manufacturer’s warranty on a form prescribed by the Commissioner, which shall provide that the manufacturer’s warranty is in addition to and not in derogation of all other rights and remedies the purchaser or owner may have, and a warranty in form satisfactory to the Commissioner warranting that the manufactured home, the foundation, positioning and anchoring of the manufactured home to its permanent foundation, and all site improvements are constructed in substantial conformity with the plans and specifications (including amendments thereof or changes and variations therein which have been approved in writing by the Commissioner) on which the Commissioner has based his valuation of the dwelling. The warranty shall also include provisions that the manufactured home sustained no hidden damage during transportation, and if the manufactured home is a double-wide, that the sections were properly joined and sealed. Such agreement must provide that upon the sale or conveyance of the dwelling and delivery of the warranty, the seller, builder or such other person will promptly furnish the Commissioner with a conformed copy of the warranty establishing by the purchaser’s receipt thereon that the original warranty has been delivered to the purchaser in accordance with this section.
(d) In the case of a manufactured home which has been permanently erected on a site for more than one year prior to the dae of the application for mortgage insurance:
(i) The manufactured home shall be permanently anchored to and supported by permanent footings and shall have permanently installed utilities that are protected from freezing. The space beneath the manufactured home shall be a properly enclosed crawl space.
(ii) The site, site improvements, and all other features of the mortgaged property not addressed by the Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards shall meet or exceed applicable requirements of the Requirements for Existing Housing – One to Four Family Living Units (Handbook 4905.1). The finished grade level beneath the manufactured home shall be at or above the 100-year return frequency flood elevation.
(iii) The manufactured home shall have been occupied only at the location subject to the mortgage sought to be insured.
§ 203.43g Eligibility of mortgages in certain communities.
(a) A mortgage which meets the requirements of this subpart shall be eligible for insurance without regard to the limitation in this part relating to marketability of title under the following conditions:
(1) The mortgagor is to occupy the dwelling as a principal residence (as defined in § 203.18(f)(1)).
(2) The defect or potential defect in title is a direct and primary result of outstanding claims to ownership of land in the community by an American Indian tribe, band, group or Nation.
(3) Fifty or more individual owners were joined as parties defendant or were members of a defendant class before April 1, 1980 in litigation involving claims to ownership of land in the community in which the property is located by an American Indian tribe, band, group or Nation pursuant to a dispute involving the Articles of Confederation, the Trade and Intercourse Act of 1790 or any similar State or Federal law.
(4) Such ownership claims are reasonably likely to be settled by court action or otherwise.
(5) Temporary adverse economic conditions exist throughout the community as a direct and primary result of such claims.
(b) Mortgages complying with the requirements of this subpart as modified by this section shall be the obligation of the Special Risk Insurance Fund.
§ 203.43h Eligibility of mortgages on Indian land insured pursuant to section 248 of the National Housing Act.
A mortgage covering a one- to four-family residence located on Indian land shall be eligible for insurance pursuant to section 248 of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1715z-13), notwithstanding otherwise applicable requirements related to marketability of title, if the mortgage meets the requirements of this subpart as modified by this section and is made by an Indian Tribe or on a leasehold estate, by an Indian who will occupy it as a principal residence. Mortgage insurance on cooperative shares is not authorized under this section.
(a) Exemptions. (1) The provisions of subparts I, J, and M of part 200, and § 203.30, shall not apply to approval of mortgagors for mortgages insured under this section if the Indian tribe to which the prospective mortgagor belongs is subject to the Indian Civil Rights Act.
(2) In the case of an Indian tribe which is not subject to the Indian Civil Rights Act, the authorities cited in paragraph (a)(1) of this section shall apply, but any preference in the tribe’s approval of the sale or assumption of a lease and mortgage under this section in favor of an eligible Indian over a non-Indian shall not be considered to be a violation of subpart I, J or M.
(b) Eviction procedures. Before HUD will insure a mortgage on Indian land, the tribe having jurisdiction over such property must certify to the HUD Field Office that it has adopted and will enforce procedures for eviction of defaulted mortgagors where the insured mortgage has been foreclosed.
(c) Approval of lease and mortgage. The lease must be on a form prescribed by HUD.
The mortgage must be on a form which meets the requirements of § 203.17(a)(2). Before HUD will insure any mortgage under this section, the mortgagee must demonstrate that the Bureau of Indian Affairs, U.S. Department of Interior, has approved both the lease and mortgage.
(d) Construction advances. The Commissioner may issue a commitment for the insurance of advances made during construction and a Direct Endorsement mortgagee may request insurance of a mortgage that will involve the insurance of advances made during construction. The Commissioner will insure advances made by the mortgagee during construction if all of the following conditions are satisfied:
(1) The mortgage shall be a first lien on the leasehold;
(2) The mortgagor and the mortgagee execute a building loan agreement, approved by the Commissioner, setting forth the terms and conditions under which advances will be made;
(3) The advances are made only as provided in the commitment or the approval by the Direct Endorsement underwriter;
(4) The principal amount of the mortgage is held by the mortgagee in an interest bearing account, trust, or escrow for the benefit of the mortgagor, pending advancement to the mortgagor or to his or her creditors as provided in the loan agreement;
(5) The mortgage shall bear interest on the amount advanced to the mortgagor or to his or her creditors and on the amount held in an account or trust for the benefit of the mortgagor; and
(6) The Secretary had determined that no feasible financing alternative is available.
(e) Assumption or sale of leasehold. The form of lease must contain a provision requiring tribal consent before any assumption of an existing lease, except where title to the leasehold interest is obtained by the Secretary through foreclosure of the insured mortgage. A mortgagee other than the Secretary must obtain tribal consent before obtaining title through a foreclosure sale. Tribal consent must be obtained on any subsequent transfer from the purchaser, including the Secretary, at foreclosure sale. The lease may not be terminated by the lessor without HUD’s approval while the mortgage is insured or held by the Secretary.
(f) First lien. The first lien requirement under this part is implemented where the mortgage is filed in the State recording system and is a first lien under that system, even though the leasehold interest securing the mortgage is located on Indian land and filed with Bureau of Indian Affairs, U.S. Department of the Interior. Any tribal government whose courts have jurisdiction to hear foreclosures must also:
(1) Enact a law satisfactory to the Commissioner providing for the satisfaction of FHA-insured and Secretary-held mortgages before other obligations (other than tribal leasehold taxes against the property assessed after the property is mortgaged) are satisfied; or
(2) Enact a law providing that State law shall determine the priority of liens against the property.
(g) Definitions. As used in this section and elsewhere in this part, the term:
(1) Indian means and individual member of any Indian tribe and that member’s family.
(2) Indian land means trust or otherwise restricted land (i) as defined by the Secretary of the Interior, over which an Indian tribe is recognized by the United States as having governmental jurisdiction; (ii) held in trust for the benefit of any Indian tribe or individual or held by any Indian tribe or individual subject to a restriction by the United States against alienation; or (iii) acquired by Alaska natives under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act or any other land acquired by Alaska natives pursuant to statute by virtue of their unique status as Alaska natives.
(3) Indian tribe means any Indian or Alaska native tribe, band, nation, or other organized group or community of Indians or Alaskan natives recognized as eligible for the services provided to Indians or Alaska natives by the Secretary of the Interior because of its status as such an entity, or that is an eligible recipient under chapter 67 of title 31, United States Code. For purposes of engaging in section 248 insured mortgage transactions under this section, an Indian tribe may act through its duly authorized representative.
§ 203.43i Eligibility of mortgages on Hawaiian Home Lands insured pursuant to section 247 of the National Housing Act.
(a) Eligibility. A mortgage on a homestead lease granted by the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands covering a one- to four-family residence located on Hawaiian home lands is eligible for insurance pursuant to section 247 of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1715z-12) if the mortgagor is a native Hawaiian who will occupy it as a principal residence, and if the mortgage meets the requirements of this subpart as modified by this section. Mortgage insurance on cooperative shares under § 203.43c on homes in federally impacted areas under § 203.43e is not authorized under this section.
(b) Exemptions from other regulations. The provisions of subparts I, J, and M of part 200, and § 203.30, to the extent that these provisions would otherwise prohibit preferences in favor of Native Hawaiians in the leasing, sale or other disposition of Hawaiian home lands, do not apply to mortgages insured pursuant to section 247 of the National Housing Act. The first lien requirement contained in § 203.17 also does not apply to mortgages insured pursuant to section 247 of the National Housing Act.
(c) Definitions. (1) Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) is a Department of the State of Hawaii responsible for management of Hawaiian home lands for the benefit of native Hawaiians.
(2) Hawaiian home lands means all lands given the status of Hawaiian home lands under section 204 of the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act of 1920 (42 Stat. 110), or under the corresponding provision of the Constitution of the State of Hawaii adopted under section 4 of the Act entitled “An Act to provide for the admission of the State of Hawaii into the Union,” approved March 18, 1959 (73 Stat. 5).
(3) Native Hawaiian means any descendant of not less than one-half part of the blood of the races inhabiting the Hawaiian islands before January 1, 1778, or, in the case of an individual who is awarded an interest in a lease of Hawaiian home lands through transfer or succession, such lower percentage as may be established for such transfer or succession under section 208 or 209 of the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act of 1920 (42 Stat.111), or under the corresponding provision of the Constitution of the State of Hawaii adopted under section 4 of the Act entitled “An Act to provide for the admission of the State of Hawaii into the Union,” approved March 18, 1959 (73 Stat. 5).
(d) Conditions for insurance. Mortgages will be eligible for insurance under this section, according to the procedures in §§ 203.5, 203.6, or 203.7 (as applicable), only where the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands:
(1) Will be a comortgagor;
(2) Guarantees or reimburse the Secretary for any mortgage insurance claim paid in connection with a property on Hawaiian home lands; or
(3) Offers other security acceptable to the Secretary.
(e) Acceptable security. Any agreement by the Secretary to accept alternative security under paragraph (d)(3) of this section must contain provisions designed to ensure that the insurance of mortgages under this section has a neutral impact on the appropriate insurance funds. These provisions may require the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to make an initial deposit of funds with HUD and to maintain additional funds in reserve for subsequent deposits with HUD. The initial and subsequent deposits shall be used to pay obligations incurred by HUD in connection with the insurance of mortgages under this section and any associated costs, including refunds of insurance premiums to mortgagors. If the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands agrees to make deposits in amounts acceptable to HUD, then the Secretary may agree to use a portion of the premiums received for insurance of mortgages under this section solely for payment of such obligations and associated costs.
(f) Recordation. The mortgagee must certify that the mortgage has been recorded with the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands.
(g) Construction advances. Advances made by the mortgagee during construction are eligible for insurance, according to the procedures in §§ 203.5, 203.6, or 203.7 (as applicable), if the Secretary determines that no feasible financing alternative is available and if:
(1) The mortgagor and the mortgagee execute a building loan agreement, approved by the Secretary, setting forth the terms and conditions under which advances will be made;
(2) The advances are made only as provided in the commitment or the approval by the Direct Endorsement or Lender Insurance underwriter;
(3) The principal amount of the mortgage is held by the mortgagee in an interest bearing account, trust, or escrow for the benefit of the mortgagor, pending advancement to the mortgagor or to his or her creditors as provided in the loan agreement; and
(4) The mortgage bears interest on the amount advanced to the mortgagor or to his or her creditors and on the amount held in an account or trust for the benefit of the mortgagor.
(h) Form of lease. The form of lease must be approved by both HUD and the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL). The lease may not be terminated by DHHL without the approval of the Secretary while the mortgage is insured or held by the Secretary.
(i) Eligibility of mortgagor. In addition to the eligibility requirements contained in this subpart, possession of a lease of Hawaiian home lands issued under section 207(a) of the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act of 1920 (42 Stat.110) that has been certified by the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands as being valid, current, and not in default, shall be sufficient to certify eligibility to receive a mortgage to be insured under this section.
§ 203.43j Eligibility of mortgages on Allegany Reservation of Seneca Nation of Indians.
A mortgage on a leasehold estate covering a one- to four-family residence located on the Allegany Reservation of the Seneca Nation of Indians in the State of New York is eligible for insurance if the mortgage meets the requirements of this subpart as modified by this section.
(a) Title. This section applies only to a mortgage which:
(1) Does not meet the requirements of § 203.37;
(2) Is on a leasehold under a lease with a termination date in February 1991, which provides for renewal in accordance with the Act of February 19, 1875 (18 Stat. 330) and the Act of September 30, 1890 (26 Stat. 558).
(b) Provisions of mortgage. The Secretary will prescribe special mortgage provisions in the form of a mortgage rider in order better to secure the mortgagee, including:
(1) Authorization for the mortgagee to exercise the option of lease renewal if the mortgagor fails to do so, and to recover from the mortgagor authorized expenses incurred to obtain lease renewal; and
(2) Making a mortgagor failure to take steps necessary for less renewal an event of default under the mortgage.
(c) Secretary agreement with mortgagor. The mortgagor must enter into an agreement with the Secretary and such other parties as the Secretary may require regarding actions to be taken to obtain either a renewal of the lease or a new lease.
(d) Certification. The borrower must certify that it has received disclosures, in a form prescribed by the Secretary, explaining the status of the lease and the consequences of nonrenewal. The disclosure shall include a discussion of the fact that a mortgagor who does not obtain a lease renewal and loses the right of occupancy will remain liable for the outstanding balance of the mortgage.
(e) Purchase for principal residence. The mortgagor must be a purchaser who intends to occupy the property as a principal residence (as defined in § 203.18(f)(1)), or a current owner-occupant refinancing a mortgage which is now due or which will become due before the lease termination date in February 1991.
(f) Relationship of income to housing expense. For purposes of § 203.33(a), the total prospective housing expense shall include the Secretary’s estimate of future lease payments during the term of the mortgage rather than lease payments in effect at the time of application.
(g) Suspension of commitments. The Secretary may suspend the issuance of commitments to insure mortgages under this section, for the entire period during which commitments could otherwise be issued for insurance under this section (i.e., through February 18, 1991) or for such lesser period as the Secretary may specify, by providing thirty days notice of suspension in the
§ 203.44 Eligibility of advances.
Mortgagees may not make open-end advances under section 225 of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1715p) in connection with the mortgages insured under this chapter.
§ 203.45 Eligibility of graduated payment mortgages.
A mortgage containing provisions for varying rates of amortization corresponding to anticipated variations in family income shall be eligible for insurance under this subpart subject to compliance with the additional requirements of this section.
(a) The mortgage may provide that any interest which accrues and which is unpaid pursuant to a financing plan approved by the Secretary, shall be added to the principal obligation of the mortgage.
(b) The mortgage shall bear interest at the rate agreed upon by the mortgagee and the mortgagor.
(c) The mortgage amount shall not exceed the lesser of:
(1) The limits prescribed by §§ 203.18, 203.18a, and 203.29; or,
(2) An amount which, when added to all accrued mortgage interest which will be unpaid under a financing plan approved by the Secretary, shall not exceed 97 percent of the appraised value of the property covered by the mortgage as of the date the mortgage is accepted for insurance. However, if the mortgagor is a veteran, the mortgage amount, when added to all accrued mortgage interest which will be unpaid under a financing plan approved by the Secretary, shall not exceed the applicable limits prescribed for veterans in § 203.18(a).
(d) The mortgage must contain complete amortization provisions satisfactory to the Secretary requiring monthly payments by the mortgagor not in excess of his reasonable ability to pay as determined by the Secretary. The sum of the payments to principal and/or interest may increase annually for a period of five years at a rate of 2
(e) The mortgagee shall fully explain to the mortgagor the nature of the obligation undertaken and the mortgagor shall certify that he or she fully understands the obligation.
(f) Sections 203.21 and 203.44 shall not apply to this section.
(g) This section applies only to mortgagors who are to occupy the dwelling as a principal residence (as defined in § 203.18(f)(1)). It does not apply to a mortgage that meets the requirements of §§ 203.18(a)(4), 203.18 (c) through (e), 203.43, 203.43a, 203.43j, or 203.49.
(h) Mortgages complying with the requirements of this section shall be insured under this subpart pursuant to section 245 of the National Housing Act.
§ 203.47 Eligibility of growing equity mortgages.
A mortgage containing provisions for accelerated amortization corresponding to anticipated variations in family income shall be eligible for insurance under this subpart, subject to compliance with the additional requirements of this section.
(a) The mortgage must contain complete amortization provisions, satisfactory to the Secretary, requiring monthly payments by the mortgagor not in excess of the mortgagor’s reasonable ability to pay, as determined by the Secretary.
(b) The mortgage must contain a provision setting forth the payments required for principal and interest in each year of the mortgage.
(c) The monthly payments for principal and interest for the initial year, or such other initial period as the commissioner may approve, shall be determined on the basis of a 30-year level payment amortization schedule. Subsequent monthly payments for principal and interest may increase annually, biennially or at such other interval that is greater than one year, as the Commissioner may approve. The subsequent periodic increases may be up to five percent above the payments for principal and interest for the previous period.
(d) No later than at the time that a loan application is offered to a prospective mortgagor, the mortgagee shall explain fully to the mortgagor the nature of the obligation undertaken and the mortgagor shall certify that he or she fully understands the obligation.
(e) The mortgage amount shall not exceed the limits prescribed by § 203.18, 203.18a, or 203.29.
(f) Sections 203.21 and 203.44 shall not apply to this section.
(g) This section shall not apply to a mortgage which meets the requirements of § 203.43, § 203.43a, or § 203.49.
(h) Mortgages complying with the requirements of this section shall be insured under this subpart pursuant to section 245(a) of the National Housing Act.
§ 203.49 Eligibility of adjustable rate mortgages.
A mortgage containing the provisions for periodic adjustments by the mortgagee in the effective rate of interest charged shall be eligible for insurance under this subpart subject to compliance with the additional requirements of this section. This section shall apply only to mortgage loans described under sections 203(b), 203(h) and 203(k) of the National Housing Act.
(a) Types of mortgages insurable. The types of adjustable rate mortgages that are insurable are those for which the interest rate may be adjusted annually by the mortgagee, beginning after one, three, five, seven, or ten years from the date of the mortgagor’s first debt service payment.
(b) Interest-rate index. Changes in the interest rate charged on an adjustable rate mortgage must correspond either to changes in the one-year London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) or to changes in the weekly average yield on U.S. Treasury securities, adjusted to a constant maturity of one year. Except as otherwise provided in this section, each change in the mortgage interest rate must correspond to the upward and downward change in the index.
(c) Amortization provisions. The mortgage must contain amortization provisions satisfactory to the Secretary, allowing for periodic adjustments in the rate of interest charged corresponding to changes in the interest rate index.
(d) Frequency of interest rate changes. (1) The interest rate adjustments must occur annually, calculated from the date of the mortgagor’s first debt service payment, except that, for these types of mortgages, the first adjustment shall be no sooner or later than the following:
(i) One-year adjustable rate mortgages – no sooner than 12 months or later than 18 months;
(ii) Three-year adjustable rate mortgages – no sooner than 36 months or later than 42 months;
(iii) Five-year adjustable rate mortgages – no sooner than 60 months or later than 66 months;
(iv) Seven-year adjustable rate mortgages – no sooner than 84 months or later than 90 months; and
(v) Ten-year adjustable rate mortgages – no sooner than 120 months or later than 126 months.
(2) To set the new interest rate, the mortgagee will determine the change between the initial (i.e., base) index figure and the current index figure, or will add a specific margin to the current index figure. The initial index figure shall be the most recent figure available before the date of mortgage loan origination. The current index figure shall be the most recent index figure available 30 days before the date of each interest rate adjustment, except that for forward mortgages originated on or after January 10, 2015, 30 days shall mean 45 days.
(e) Method of rate changes. Interest rate changes may only be implemented through adjustments to the mortgagor’s monthly payments.
(f) Magnitude of changes. The adjustable rate mortgage initial contract interest rate shall be agreed upon by the mortgagee and the mortgagor. The first adjustment to the contract interest rate shall take place in accordance with the schedule set forth under paragraph (d) of this section. Thereafter, for all adjustable rate mortgages, the adjustment shall be made annually and shall occur on the anniversary date of the first adjustment, subject to the following conditions and limitations:
(1) For one- and three-year adjustable rate mortgages, no single adjustment to the interest rate shall result in a change in either direction of more than one percentage point from the interest rate in effect for the period immediately preceding that adjustment. Index changes in excess of one percentage point may not be carried over for inclusion in an adjustment for a subsequent year. Adjustments in the effective rate of interest over the entire term of the mortgage may not result in a change in either direction of more than five percentage points from the initial contract interest rate.
(2) For five-, seven-, and ten-year adjustable rate mortgages, no single adjustment to the interest rate shall result in a change in either direction of more than two percentage points from the interest rate in effect for the period immediately preceding that adjustment. Index changes in excess of two percentage points may not be carried over for inclusion in an adjustment in a subsequent year. Adjustments in the effective rate of interest over the entire term of the mortgage may not result in a change in either direction of more than six percentage points from the initial contract rate.
(3) At each adjustment date, changes in the index interest rate, whether increases or decreases, must be translated into the adjusted mortgage interest rate, except that the mortgage may provide for minimum interest rate change limitations and for minimum increments of interest rate changes.
(g) Pre-Loan Disclosure. The mortgagee is required to make available to the mortgagor, at the time of loan application, a written explanation of the features of an adjustable rate mortgage consistent with the disclosure requirements applicable to variable rate mortgages secured by a principal dwelling under the Truth in Lending Act, 15 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.
(h) Disclosures. The mortgagee of an adjustable rate mortgage shall provide mortgagors with the disclosures in the timing, content, and format required by the regulations implementing the Truth in Lending Act (15 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.) at 12 CFR 1026.20(c) and (d).
(i) Cross-reference. Sections 203.21 (level payment amortization provisions) and 203.44 (open-end advances) do not apply to this section. This section does not apply to a mortgage that meets the requirements of §§ 203.18(a)(4) (mortgagors of secondary residences), 203.18(c) (eligible non-occupant mortgagors), 203.18(d) (outlying area properties), 203.43 (miscellaneous type mortgages), 203.43c (mortgages involving a dwelling unit in a cooperative housing development), 203.43d (mortgages in certain communities), 203.43e (mortgages covering houses in federally impacted areas), 203.45 (graduated payment mortgages), or 203.47 (growing equity mortgages).
(j) Aggregate amount of mortgages insured. The aggregate number of adjustable rate mortgages insured pursuant to this section and 24 CFR part 234 in any fiscal year may not exceed 30 percent of the aggregate number of mortgages and loans insured by the Secretary under Title II of the National Housing Act during the preceding fiscal year.
(k) Insurance authority. Mortgages complying with the requirements of this section shall be insured under this subpart pursuant to section 251 of the National Housing Act.
§ 203.50 Eligibility of rehabilitation loans.
A rehabilitation loan which meets the requirements of this subpart, except as modified by this section, shall be eligible for insurance under section 203(k) of the National Housing Act.
(a) For the purpose of this section:
(1) The term rehabilitation loan means a loan, advance of credit, or purchase of an obligation representing a loan or advancement of credit, made for the purpose of financing:
(i) The rehabilitation of an existing one-to-four-unit structure which will be used primarily for residential purposes;
(ii) The rehabilitation of such a structure and refinancing of the outstanding indebtedness on such structure and the real property on which the structure is located;
(iii) The rehabilitation of such a structure and the purchase of the structure and the real property on which it is located; or
(iv) The rehabilitation of the interior space of a condominium unit, as defined in § 203.43b, excluding any areas that are the responsibility of the Association; and
(2) The term rehabilitation means the improvement (including improvements designed to meet cost-effective energy conservation standards prescribed by the Secretary and improvements for accessibility to the handicapped) or repair of a structure, or facilities in connection with a structure, and may include the provision of such sanitary or other facilities as are required by applicable codes, a community development plan, or a statewide property insurance plan to be provided by the owner or tenant of the project.
(b) The provisions of § 203.18 (except as otherwise provided in paragraphs (f) (1) and (2) of this section) and § 203.43c shall not apply to loans insured under this section.
(c) The loan shall cover a dwelling which was completed more than one year preceding the date of the application for mortgage insurance and which was approved for mortgage insurance prior to the beginning of rehabilitation.
(d)(1) The buildings on the mortgaged property must, upon completion of rehabilitation, conform with standards prescribed by the Secretary.
(2) Improvements or repairs made under this section must be designed to meet cost-effective energy conservation standards prescribed by the Secretary.
(e) The loan transaction shall be an acceptable risk as determined by the Commissioner.
(f) The loan may not exceed an amount which, when added to any outstanding indebtedness of the borrower that is secured by the property, creates an outstanding indebtedness in excess of the lesser of:
(1)(i) The limits prescribed in § 203.18(a)(1) and (3) (in the case of a dwelling to be occupied as a principal residence, as defined in § 203.18(f)(1));
(ii) The limits prescribed in § 203.18(a)(1) and (4) (in the case of a dwelling to be occupied as a secondary residence, as defined in § 203.18(f)(2));
(iii) Eighty-five (85) percent of the limits prescribed in § 203.18(c), or such higher limit, not to exceed the limits set forth in § 203.18(a)(1) and (3), as the Secretary may prescribe (in the case of an eligible non-occupant mortgagor as defined in § 203.18(f)(3));
(iv) The limits prescribed in § 203.18a, based upon the sum of the estimated cost of rehabilitation and the Commissioner’s estimate of the value of the property before rehabilitation;
(2) The limits prescribed in the authorities listed in this paragraph (f), based upon 110 percent of the Commissioner’s estimate of the value of the property after rehabilitation; or
(3) For any Condominium Unit that is not a Site Condominium (as defined in § 203.43b), 100 percent of the after-improvement value of the Condominium Unit.
(g) The loan limitation prescribed by paragraph (f)(2) of this section shall not be applicable where a unit of local government demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Commissioner that:
(1) The property is located within an area which is subject to a community sponsored program of concentrated redevelopment or revitalization, and,
(2) The loan limitation prescribed by paragraph (f)(2) of this section, prevents the utilization of the program to accomplish rehabilitation in the subject area, and,
(3) The interests of the mortgagor and the Commissioner are adequately protected.
(h) Insurance may be available for advances made during rehabilitation or upon completion of rehabilitation, according to the procedures in § 203.5, 203.6, or 203.7 (as applicable).
(i) Rehabilitation loans which do not involve the insurance of advances, the refinancing of outstanding indebtedness or the purchase of the property need not be a first lien on the property but shall not be junior to any lien other than a first mortgage. The provisions of §§ 203.15, 203.19, 203.23, 203.24, 203.26, and 203.43j shall not be applicable to such loans.
(j) The Commissioner may insure advances made by the mortgagee during rehabilitation if the following conditions are satisfied:
(1) The mortgage shall be a first lien on the property.
(2) The mortgagor and the mortgagee shall execute a rehabilitation loan agreement, approved by the Commissioner, setting forth the terms and conditions under which advances will be made.
(3) The advances shall be made as provided in the reliabilitation loan agreement.
(4) The principal amount of the mortgage shall be held by the mortgagee in an interest bearing account, trust, or escrow for the benefit of the mortgagor pending advancement to the mortgagor or his creditors as provided in the rehabilitation loan agreement.
(5) The loan shall bear interest at the rate prescribed in § 203.20 on the amount advanced to the mortgagor or its creditors, and the amount held in an account or trust for the benefit of the mortgagor.
(6) If paragraph (k) of this section applies, the rehabilitation loan agreement shall restrict advancement to the mortgagor, or to creditors other than the mortgagee, so that any loan proceeds in excess of the 85 percent set forth in paragraph (f)(1)(iii) of this section shall not be advanced until the property is sold to a purchaser described in paragraph (k)(2) of this section.
(k) In the case of a dwelling (1) to be occupied neither as a principal residence nor as a secondary residence and (2) where the loan is approved for a limit higher than the 85 percent set forth in paragraph (f)(1)(iii) of this section, the eligible non-occupant mortgagor (as defined in § 203.18(f)(3)) shall certify to the Commissioner that:
(1) The mortgagor will not rent (except for a rental term of not less than 30 days and not more than 60 days), sell (except where the insured mortgage is paid in full as an incident of the sale), or occupy the property before a due date approved by the Commissioner, except with the prior written approval of the Commissioner;
(2) The mortgagor agrees that, if the property is not sold before a due date approved by the Commissioner to a purchaser, acceptable to the Commissioner, who will occupy the property, assume personal liability, and agree to pay the mortgage indebtedness, any amount held in escrow, trust, or special account under paragraph (j) of this section will be applied in reduction of the outstanding principal amount of the mortgage as of the due date approved by the Commissioner;
(3) The mortgagee agrees that any portion of the fund held in escrow, trust, or special account, not applied to the mortgage in accordance with the provisions of this paragraph (k), shall be deducted from the amount of the insurance benefits to which the mortgagee would otherwise be entitled if a claim for insurance benefits is filed.
(l) Rehabilitation loan consultants. HUD maintains a list of qualified consultants, in accordance with §§ 200.190 through 200.193 of this title. When the borrower elects to use the services of a consultant, the lender must select a consultant on the list to perform one or more of the following tasks:
(1) Conduct a preliminary feasibility analysis before or after the submission of a sales contract;
(2) Prepare the cost estimate, work write-up, and architectural exhibits required for the rehabilitation of the property;
(3) Conduct a plan review; and
(4) Conduct the draw inspections for the release of funds during the construction phase of the project.
(m) With regard to loans under this section executed on or after December 27, 2005, the Commissioner shall charge an up-front and annual MIP in accordance with 24 CFR 203.284 or 203.285, whichever is applicable.
§ 203.51 Applicability.
The provisions of §§ 203.18 (a), (c), (d), (e)(1), and (f); § 203.29(c); § 203.31; § 203.43(c); 203.43(k); § 203.43c(g); § 203.43d(a), § 203.43g(a)(1); § 203.43j(e); § 203.45(g); § 203.49(h); § 203.50(f); and § 203.50(k) of this subpart apply to mortgages insured:
(1) Pursuant to a conditional commitment or master conditional commitment issued on or after September 24, 1990; or
(2) In accordance with the Direct Endorsement program, if the underwriter of the mortgagee signs the appraisal report or master appraisal report for the property on or after September 24, 1990; or
(3) Pursuant to a certificate of reasonable value or master certificate of reasonable value issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs on or after September 24, 1990.
§ 203.52 Acceptance of individual residential water purification equipment.
If a property otherwise eligible for insurance under this part does not have access to a continuing supply of safe and potable water without the use of a water purification system, the requirements of this section must be complied with as a condition to acceptance of the mortgage for insurance. The mortgagee must provide appropriate documentation with the submission for insurance endorsement to address each of the requirements of this section.
(a) Equipment. Water purification equipment must be approved by a nationally recognized testing laboratory acceptable to the local or state health authority.
(b) Certification by local (or state) health authority. A local (or state) health authority certification must be submitted to HUD which certifies that:
(1) A point-of-entry or point-of-use water purification system is currently in operation on the property. If the system in operation employs point-of-use equipment, the purification system must be employed on each water supply source (faucet) serving the property. Where point-of-entry systems are used, separate water supply systems carrying untreated water for flushing toilets may be constructed.
(2) The system is sufficient to assure an uninterrupted supply of safe and potable water adequate to meet household needs.
(3) The water supply, when treated by the equipment, meets the requirements of the local (or state) health authority, and has been determined to meet local or state quality standards for drinking water. If neither state nor local standards are applicable, then quality shall be determined in accordance with standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) pursuant to the Safe Drinking Water Act. (EPA standards are prescribed in the National Primary Drinking Water requirements, 40 CFR parts 141 and 142.)
(4) There exists a Plan providing for the monitoring, servicing, maintenance, and replacement of the water equipment, which Plan meets the requirements of paragraph (f) of this section.
(c) Mortgagor notice and certification. (1) The prospective mortgagor must have received written notification, before the mortgagor signed a sales contract, that the property has a hazardous water supply that requires treatment in order to remain safe and acceptable for human consumption. The notification to the mortgagor must identify specific contaminants in the water supply serving the property, and the related health hazard arising from the presence of those contaminants.
(2) The mortgagor must have received, with the notification described in paragraph (c)(1) of this section, a written good faith estimate of the maintenance and replacement costs of the equipment necessary to assure continuing safe drinking water.
(3) A copy of the notification statement (including cost estimates), dated before the date of the sales contract, and signed by the prospective mortgagor to acknowledge its receipt, must accompany the submission for insurance endorsement. If a sales contract is signed in advance of the disclosure required by this paragraph, another sales contract must be executed after the information is provided to the prospective mortgagor and he or she has acknowledged receipt of the disclosure.
(4) The prospective mortgagor must sign a certification, substantially in the form set out in this paragraph (c)(4), at the time the application for mortgage credit approval is signed. This certification must be submitted to HUD:
Mortgagor’s Certificate. I hereby acknowledge and understand that the home I am purchasing has a water purification system which I am responsible for maintaining.
I understand that the individual water supply is unsafe for consumption unless the system is operating properly. I am aware that if I do not properly maintain the system, the water supply will not be purified or treated properly, thereby rendering the water supply unsafe for consumption.
I also understand that the Department of Housing and Urban Development does not warrant the condition of the property, will not give me any money for repairs to the water purification system, and has relied upon the local (or state) health authority to assure that the water supply, when processed by properly maintained equipment, is acceptable for human use and consumption.
(d) Service contract. Before mortgage closing, the mortgagor must enter into a service contract with an organization or individual specifically approved by the local (or state) health authority to carry out the provisions of the required Plan for servicing, maintenance, repair and replacement of the water purification equipment. A copy of the signed service contract must be provided to HUD.
(e) Escrow for maintenance and replacement. The mortgagee must establish and maintain an escrow account which provides for the accumulation of funds paid with the mortgagor’s monthly mortgage payment adequate to assure proper servicing, maintenance, repair and replacement of the water purification equipment. The amount to be collected and escrowed by the mortgagee shall be based upon information provided by the manufacturer for the maintenance and replacement of the water purification equipment and for other charges anticipated by the service contractor. The initial monthly escrow amount shall be stated in the Plan. Disbursements from the account will be limited to costs associated with the normal servicing, maintenance, repair or replacement of the water purification equipment. Disbursements may only be made to the service contractor or its successor, to equipment suppliers, to the local (or state) health authority for the performance of testing or other required services, or to another entity approved by the health authority. So long as water purification remains necessary and the mortgage is insured by HUD, the mortgagee must maintain the escrow account.
(f) Approved Plan. A Plan, in the form of a contract entered into by the mortgagor and mortgagee and approved by the local (or state) health authority, must set out conditions that must be met by the parties as a condition to insurance of the mortgage by HUD. To be approved by the health authority:
(1) The Plan must set forth the respective responsibilities to be assumed by the mortgagor and the mortgagee, as well as the other entities who will implement the Plan, i.e., the health authority and the service contractor. In particular:
(i) The Plan must set out the responsibilities of the health authority for monitoring and enforcing performance of the service contractor, including any successor contractor that the health authority may later have occasion to name. By its approval of the Plan, the health authority documents its acceptance of these responsibilities, and the Plan should so indicate;
(ii) The Plan must provide for the monitoring of the operation of the water purification equipment, as well as for servicing (including disinfecting), and for repairing and replacing the system, as frequently as necessary, taking into consideration the system’s design, anticipated use, and the type and level of contaminants present. Installation, servicing, repair and replacement of the water purification system must be performed by an individual or organization approved for the purpose by the local (or state) health authority and identified in the Plan. In meeting the requirements of paragraph (f)(1)(ii) of this section, the Plan may incorporate by reference specific terms and conditions of the service contract required under paragraph (d) of this section.
(iii) Under the Plan, responsibility for monitoring the performance of the service contractor and for assuring that the water purification system is properly serviced, repaired, and replaced rests with the local (or state) health authority that has given its approval to the Plan. The Plan must confer on the health authority all powers necessary to effect compliance by the service contractor. The health authority’s powers shall include the authority to notify the mortgagor of any noncompliance by the service contractor. The plan must provide that, upon any notification of noncompliance received from the health authority, the mortgagor shall have the right to discharge the service contractor for cause and to appoint a successor organization or individual as service contractor; and
(iv) The Plan must provide for the mortgagor to make periodic escrow payments necessary for the servicing, maintenance, repair and replacement of the water purification system, and for the mortgagee to disburse funds from the escrow account as required, to the appropriate party or parties.
(2) The Plan must provide that if the dwelling served by the water purification system is refinanced, or is sold or otherwise transferred with a HUD-insured mortgage, the Plan will:
(i) Continue in full force and effect;
(ii) Impose an obligation on the mortgagor to notify any subsequent purchaser or transferee of the necessity for the water purification system and for its proper maintenance, and of the obligation to make escrow payments; and
(iii) Require the mortgagor to furnish the purchaser with a copy of the Plan, before any sales contract is signed.
(g) Periodic analysis. Any Plan developed in accordance with this section must provide that an analysis of the water supply shall be obtained from the local (or state) health authority no less frequently than annually, but more frequently, if determined at any time to be necessary by the health authority or by the service contractor.
Effective Date
§ 203.249 Effect of amendments.
The regulations in this subpart may be amended by the Secretary at any time and from time to time, in whole or in part, but such amendment will not adversely affect the interests of a mortgagee under the contract of insurance on any mortgage or loan already insured, and will not adversely affect the interest of a mortgagee on any mortgage or loan to be insured for which either the Direct Endorsement or Lender Insurance mortgagee has approved the mortgagor and all terms and conditions of the mortgage or loan, or the Secretary has issued a firm commitment. In addition, such amendment will not adversely affect the eligibility of specific property if such property is covered by a conditional commitment issued by the Secretary, a certificate of reasonable value issued by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, or an appraisal report approved by a Direct Endorsement or Lender Insurance underwriter.
Subpart B – Contract Rights and Obligations
Definitions
§ 203.251 Definitions.
As used in this subpart, the following terms shall have the meaning indicated:
(a) Commissioner means the Federal Housing Commissioner or his authorized representative.
(b) Act means the National Housing Act, as amended.
(c) FHA means the Federal Housing Administration.
(d) Mortgage is defined at § 203.17(a)(1).
(e) Mortgagor means the original borrower under a mortgage and his heirs, executors, administrators and assigns.
(f) Mortgagee means the original lender under a mortgage and its successors and such of its assigns as are approved by the Commissioner.
(g)-(h) [Reserved]
(i) Insured mortgage means a mortgage which has been insured as evidenced by the issuance of a Mortgage Insurance Certificate or by the endorsement of the credit instrument for insurance by the Commissioner.
(j) Contract of Insurance means the agreement evidenced by the issuance of a Mortgage Insurance Certificate or by the endorsement of the Commissioner upon the credit instrument given in connection with an insured mortgage, incorporating by reference the regulations in this subpart and the applicable provisions of the Act.
(k) MIP means the mortgage insurance premium paid by the mortgagee to the Commissioner in consideration of the contract of insurance.
(l)-(m) [Reserved]
(n) Open-end advance means an insured advance made by an approved mortgagee in connection with a previously insured mortgage, pursuant to an open-end provision in the mortgage.
(o) Open-end insurance charge means the charge paid by the mortgagee to the Commissioner in consideration of the insurance of an open-end advance.
(p) Beginning of amortization means the date one month prior to the date of the first monthly payment to principal and interest.
(q) Maturity means the date on which the mortgage indebtedness would be extinguished if paid in accordance with periodic payments provided for in the mortgage.
(r) Debentures means registered, transferable securities in certificated or book entry form which are valid and binding obligations, issued in the name of the Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund in accordance with the provisions of this part; such debentures are the primary liability of the Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund and are unconditionally guaranteed as to principal and interest by the United States.
(s) State includes the several States, Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, and the Virgin Islands.
(t) TOTAL is an acronym that stands for “Technology Open to Approved Lenders.” TOTAL is a mortgage scorecard based on a mathematical equation that is to be used within an automated underwriting system (AUS). TOTAL is a tool to assist the mortgagee in managing its workflow and expediting the endorsement process, and is not a substitute for the mortgagee’s reasonable consideration of risk and credit worthiness. Direct Endorsement mortgagees using TOTAL remain solely responsible for the underwriting decision.
Endorsement and Contract of Insurance
§ 203.255 Insurance of mortgage.
(a) Mortgages with firm commitments. For applications for insurance involving mortgages not eligible to be originated under the Direct Endorsement program under § 203.5, or under the Lender Insurance program under § 203.6, the Secretary will either endorse the mortgage for insurance by issuing a Mortgage Insurance Certificate, provided that the mortgagee is in compliance with the firm commitment, or will electronically acknowledge that the mortgage has been insured.
(b) Endorsement with Direct Endorsement processing. For applications for insurance involving mortgages originated under the Direct Endorsement program under § 203.5, the mortgagee shall submit to the Secretary, within 60 days after the date of closing of the loan or such additional time as permitted by the Secretary, properly completed documentation and certifications as listed in this paragraph (b):
(1) Property appraisal upon a form meeting the requirements of the Secretary (including, if required, any additional documentation supporting the appraised value of the property under § 203.37a), or a HUD conditional commitment (for proposed construction only), or a Department of Veterans Affairs certificate of reasonable value, and all accompanying documents required by the Secretary;
(2) An application for insurance of the mortgage in a form prescribed by the Secretary;
(3) A certified copy of the mortgage and note executed upon forms which meet the requirements of the Secretary;
(4) A warranty of completion, on a form prescribed by the Secretary, for proposed construction cases;
(5) An underwriter certification, on a form prescribed by the Secretary, stating that the underwriter has personally reviewed the appraisal report and credit application (including the analysis performed on the worksheets) and that the proposed mortgage complies with HUD underwriting requirements, and incorporates each of the underwriter certification items that apply to the mortgage submitted for endorsement, as set forth in the applicable handbook or similar publication that is distributed to all Direct Endorsement mortgagees, except that where the TOTAL Mortgage Scorecard is used by the mortgagee, and the TOTAL Mortgage Scorecard has determined that the application represents an acceptable risk under terms and conditions agreed to by the FHA, a Direct Endorsement underwriter shall not be required to certify that the underwriter has personally reviewed the credit application (including the analysis performed on any worksheets). The following requirements are also applicable to the use of the TOTAL Mortgage Scorecard:
(i) Mortgagees and vendors must certify to compliance with these requirements:
(A) Permissible users. Only automatic underwriting systems (AUSs) developed, operated, owned, or used by FHA-approved Direct Endorsement mortgagees, Fannie Mae, or Freddie Mac, may access TOTAL, and only FHA-approved mortgagees will be able to obtain risk-assessments using TOTAL;
(B) Limitation on use. Results from TOTAL must not be used as the basis for rejecting any mortgage applicant. Mortgagees must provide full manual underwriting for mortgage applicants when TOTAL returns a “refer” risk score.
(C) Vendor and mortgagee requirements. Both mortgagees and vendors must:
(1) Use TOTAL to process FHA and other loan products specified by the FHA Commissioner only and for no other purpose;
(2) Implement quality control procedures for TOTAL usage and provide, at FHA’s request, reports and loan samples that enable FHA to evaluate program operation;
(3) Not use TOTAL to direct mortgagors into other non-FHA product offerings (this requirement does not relieve a mortgagee from its obligations under § 203.10 concerning informed consumer choice for prospective FHA mortgagors);
(4) Not disassemble, decompile, reverse engineer, derive or otherwise reproduce any part of the source code or algorithm in TOTAL;
(5) Not provide feedback messages that conflict with the Equal Credit Opportunity Act; and
(6) Comply with any additional HUD/FHA requirements or procedures that are applicable to the Scorecard and may be issued through handbooks, mortgagee letters, TOTAL User Guides, or TOTAL Developers Guide following appropriate advance notification, where applicable.
(ii) Loss of privilege to use TOTAL. Mortgagees and AUS vendors found to violate the requirements applicable to the use of TOTAL may have their access to TOTAL and all associated privileges terminated upon appropriate notice in accordance with the following procedure:
(A) Notice. HUD will provide a mortgagee or vendor with a 30-day notice of a violation and loss of privilege. The notice will state the nature of the violation, the effective date of the loss of the privilege, and the duration of the loss of the privilege. The notice will become effective on the date provided in the notice, unless the mortgagee or vendor appeals the violation and loss of privilege in accordance with paragraph (b)(5)(ii)(B) of this section.
(B) Appeal. A party receiving a notice of violation may appeal to the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Single Family Housing (DAS-SFH), or his or her designee, before the effective date of the notice by providing evidence to refute the violation. The loss of privilege is stayed until the DAS-SFH, or designee, notifies the party that the loss of privilege has been affirmed, rescinded, or modified.
(6) Where applicable, a certificate under oath and contract regarding use of the dwelling for transient or hotel purposes;
(7) Where applicable, a certificate of intent to occupy by military personnel;
(8) Where a mortgage for an existing property is to be insured under section 221(d)(2) of the National Housing Act, a letter from the appropriate local government official that the property meets applicable code requirements;
(9) Where an individual water or sewer system is being used, an approval letter from the local health authority indicating approval of the system in accordance with § 200.926d(f) of this chapter;
(10) For proposed construction if the mortgage (excluding financed mortgage insurance premium) exceeds a 90 percent loan to value ratio, evidence that the mortgagee qualifies for a higher ratio loan under one of the applicable provisions in the appropriate regulations;
(11) A mortgage certification on a form prescribed by the Secretary, stating that the authorized representative of the mortgagee who is making the certification has personally reviewed the mortgage documents and the application for insurance endorsement, and certifying that the mortgage complies with the requirements of paragraph (b) of this section. The certification shall incorporate each of the mortgagee certification items that apply to the mortgage loan submitted for endorsement, as set forth in the applicable handbook or similar publication that is distributed to all Direct Endorsement mortgagees;
(12) For a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage under part 206 of this chapter, the additional documents required by § 206.15 of this chapter; and
(13) The documentation required under § 203.37a providing that:
(i) The seller is the owner of record; and
(ii) That more than 90 days elapsed between the date the seller acquired the property (based upon the date of settlement) and the date of execution of the sales contract that will result in the FHA mortgage insurance.
(14) Such other documents as the Secretary may require.
(c) Pre-endorsement review for Direct Endorsement. Upon submission by an approved mortgagee of the documents required by paragraph (b) of this section, the Secretary will review the documents and determine that:
(1) The mortgage is executed on a form which meets the requirements of the Secretary;
(2) The mortgage maturity meets the requirements of the applicable program;
(3) The stated mortgage amount does not exceed the maximum mortgage amount for the area as most recently announced by the Secretary, except for mortgages under 24 CFR part 206;
(4) All documents required by paragraph (b) of this section are submitted;
(5) All necessary certifications are made in accordance with paragraph (b) of this section;
(6) There is no mortgage insurance premium, late charge or interest due to the Secretary; and
(7) The mortgage was not in default when submitted for insurance or, if submitted for insurance more than 60 days after closing whether the mortgage shows an acceptable payment history.
(d) Submission by mortgagee other than originating mortgagee. If the originating mortgagee assigns the mortgage to another approved mortgagee before pre-endorsement review under paragraph (c) of this section, the assignee may submit the required documents for pre-endorsement review in the name of the originating mortgagee. All certifications must be executed by the originating mortgagee (or its underwriter, if appropriate). The purchasing mortgagee may pay any required mortgage insurance premium, late charge and interest.
(e) Post-Endorsement review for Direct Endorsement. Following endorsement for insurance, the Secretary may review all documents required by paragraph (b) of this section. If, following this review, the Secretary determines that the mortgage does not satisfy the requirements of the Direct Endorsement program, the Secretary may place the mortgagee on Direct Endorsement probation, or terminate the authority of the mortgagee to participate in the Direct Endorsement program pursuant to § 203.3(d), or refer the matter to the Mortgagee Review Board for action pursuant to part 25 of this title.
(f) Lender insurance – (1)Pre-insurance review. For applications for insurance involving mortgages originated under the Lender Insurance program under § 203.6, the mortgagee is responsible for performing a pre-insurance review that would otherwise be performed by HUD under § 203.255(c) on the documents that would otherwise be submitted to HUD under § 203.255(b). The mortgagee’s staff that performs the pre-insurance review must not be the same staff that originated the mortgage or underwrote the mortgage for insurance.
(2) Recordkeeping. Mortgagees must maintain records, including origination files, in a manner and for a time period to be prescribed by the Assistant Secretary for Housing – Federal Housing Commissioner, and must make them available to authorized HUD staff upon request.
(3) Insuring the mortgage. If, following this review, the mortgage is determined to be eligible, the mortgagee will electronically submit all required data to HUD regarding the mortgage. HUD’s electronic system will acknowledge that the mortgage has been insured. HUD’s electronic system may also issue a notice to the mortgagee that the mortgage has been selected for post-insurance technical review, and that the HUD case binder must be sent to the identified HUD office.
(g) Indemnification – (1)General. By insuring the mortgage, a Lender Insurance mortgagee agrees to indemnify HUD, in accordance with this paragraph.
(2) Definition of origination. For purposes of indemnification under this paragraph, the term “origination” means the process of creating a mortgage, starting with the taking of the initial application, continuing with the processing and underwriting, and ending with the mortgagee endorsing the mortgage note for FHA insurance.
(3) Serious and material violation. The mortgagee shall indemnify HUD for an FHA insurance claim paid within 5 years of mortgage insurance endorsement, if the mortgagee knew or should have known of a serious and material violation of FHA origination requirements, such that the mortgage loan should not have been approved and endorsed by the mortgagee and irrespective of whether the violation caused the mortgage default. Such a serious and material violation of FHA requirements in the origination of the mortgage may occur if the mortgagee failed to, among other actions:
(i) Verify the creditworthiness, income, and/or employment of the mortgagor in accordance with FHA requirements;
(ii) Verify the assets brought by the mortgagor for payment of the required down payment and/or closing costs in accordance with FHA requirements; or
(iii) Address property deficiencies identified in the appraisal affecting the health and safety of the occupants or the structural integrity of the property in accordance with FHA requirements, or
(iv) Ensure that the appraisal of the property serving as security for the mortgage loan satisfies FHA appraisal requirements, in accordance with § 203.5(e).
(4) Fraud or misrepresentation. The mortgagee shall indemnify HUD for an insurance claim if the mortgagee knew or should have known that fraud or misrepresentation was involved in connection with the origination of the mortgage, regardless of whether the fraud or misrepresentation caused the mortgage default and regardless of when an insurance claim is filed.
(5) Demand for indemnification. The demand for indemnification will be made by either the Secretary or the Mortgagee Review Board. Under indemnification, the Lender Insurance mortgagee agrees to either abstain from filing an insurance claim, or reimburse FHA if a subsequent holder of the mortgage files an insurance claim and FHA suffers a financial loss.
§ 203.256 Insurance of open-end advance.
Insurance on an open-end advance will be evidenced by delivery of a certificate stating the amount of the advance, the date of insurance, and the regulations under which the advance is insured.
§ 203.257 Creation of the contract.
The mortgage shall be an insured mortgage from the date of the issuance of a Mortgage Insurance Certificate, from the date of the endorsement of the credit instrument, or from the date of HUD’s electronic acknowledgement to the mortgagee that the mortgage is insured, as applicable. The Commissioner and the mortgagee are thereafter bound by the regulations in this subpart with the same force and to the same extent as if a separate contract had been executed relating to the insured mortgage, including the provisions of the regulations in this subpart and of the Act.
§ 203.258 Substitute mortgagors.
(a) Selling mortgagor. Except as provided in paragraph (d) of this section, the mortgagee may effect the release of a mortgagor from personal liability on the mortgage note, only if it obtains the Commissioner’s approval of a substitute mortgagor, as provided by this section.
(b) Purchasing mortgagor. (1) The Commissioner may approve a substitute mortgagor with respect to any mortgage insured under § 203.43h or § 203.43i only if the mortgagor is to occupy the dwelling as a principal residence (as defined in § 203.18(f)(1)).
(2) The Commissioner may approve a substitute mortgagor with respect to any mortgage insured under this part (except a mortgage referred to in paragraph (b)(1) of this section), only if the substitute mortgagor is to occupy the dwelling as a principal residence or as a secondary residence (as these terms are defined in § 203.18(f)) or if the substitute mortgagor is an eligible non-occupant mortgagor (as defined in § 203.18(f)).
(3) With respect to any mortgage covering a dwelling to be occupied as a secondary residence, the loan to value ratio may not exceed 85 percent of the greater of:
(i) The appraised value of the property at the time the mortgage is accepted for insurance; or
(ii) The appraised value of the property at the time approval of a substitute mortgagor is requested.
(c) Applicability – current mortgages. Paragraph (b) of this section applies to the Commissioner’s approval of a substitute mortgagor only if the mortgage executed by the original mortgagor was insured:
(1) Pursuant to a conditional commitment or master conditional commitment issued on or after December 15, 1989; or
(2) In accordance with the Direct Endorsement program, where the underwriter of the mortgagee signed the appraisal report or master appraisal report for the property on or after December 15, 1989;
(3) Pursuant to a certificate of reasonable value or master certificate of reasonable value issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs on or after December 15, 1989.
(d) Applicability – earlier mortgages. If the mortgage was insured:
(1) Pursuant to a conditional commitment or master conditional commitment issued on or after February 5, 1988, but before December 15, 1989; or
(2) In accordance with the Direct Endorsement program, where the approved underwriter of the mortgagee signed the appraisal report or master appraisal report for the property on or after February 5, 1988, but before December 15, 1989, or
(3) Pursuant to a certificate of reasonable value or master certificate of reasonable value issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs on or after February 5, 1988, but before December 15, 1989, the Commissioner may approve a substitute mortgagor with respect to the mortgage only if the substitute mortgagor is to occupy the dwelling as a principal residence or a secondary residence (as these terms are defined in § 203.18(f)), or is an eligible non-occupant mortgagor (as defined in the following sentence), or if the mortgage has a principal balance that is not more than 75 percent of the greater of (i) the appraised value of the property at the time the mortgage is accepted for insurance, or (ii) the appraised value of the property at the time approval of a substitute mortgagor is requested. For purposes of this paragraph (d), the term eligible non-occupant mortgagor has the meaning given in § 203.18(f), except that paragraph (d)(3)(ii)(A) and (B) of this section apply in place of § 203.18(f)(3) (i) and (ii).
(A) A public entity, as provided in section 214 or 247 of the National Housing Act; and
(B) A private nonprofit or public entity, as provided in section 221(h) or 235(j) of the National Housing Act.
(e) Direct endorsement. Mortgagees approved for participation in the Direct Endorsement program under § 203.3 may, subject to limitations established by the Commissioner, themselves approve an appropriate substitute mortgagor under this section for mortgages which they own or service, and need not obtain further specific approval from the Commissioner.
(f) Definition. As used in this section, the term substitute mortgagor includes:
(1) Persons who, upon the release by a mortgagee of a previous mortgagor from personal liability on the mortgage note, assume this liability and agree to pay the mortgage debt; and
(2) Persons who purchase without assuming liability on the mortgage note or purchase where no release is given by the mortgagee to the previous mortgagor.
Mortgage Insurance Premiums – In General
§ 203.259 Method of payment of MIP.
The payment of any MIP under this subpart shall be made to the Commissioner by the mortgagee either in cash or debentures at par plus accrued interest.
§ 203.259a Scope.
(a) The Commissioner shall charge a one-time MIP pursuant to § 203.280 for mortgages that:
(1) Are insured pursuant to § 203.43(c) (if the mortgage to be refinanced was executed prior to July 1, 1991 and the new mortgage is executed on or after April 24, 1992); or insured pursuant to § 203.43i; or
(2)(i) Are obligations of the Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund under this part (except insured open-end advances as provided by § 203.270);
(ii) Are insured pursuant to: (A) An application for a conditional commitment received on or after September 1, 1983; or
(B) An application for mortgage insurance endorsement under the single family Direct Endorsement program as provided in § 203.255, where the property appraisal report is signed by the mortgagee’s underwriter on or after September 1, 1983; and
(iii) Are executed before July 1, 1991.
(b) Except as provided in § 203.284(h) or § 203.285(d), the Commissioner shall charge an up-front MIP pursuant to § 203.284 or § 203.285 for mortgages executed on or after July 1, 1991 that are obligations of the Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund. In the cases that the Commissioner deems appropriate, the Commissioner may require, by means of instructions communicated to all affected mortgages, that up-front MIP be remitted electronically.
(c) The periodic MIP provision of §§ 203.260 through 203.268 shall not apply to mortgages referred to in paragraph (a) of this section, nor shall they apply to mortgages to which the provision of § 203.284 or § 203.285 apply.
Mortgage Insurance Premiums – Periodic Payment
The mortgagee shall pay to the Commissioner an initial MIP in an amount equal to one-half of one percent of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the first year of amortization. After payment of the initial MIP, the mortgagee shall pay to the Commissioner an amount equal to one-half of one percent of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the 12-month period preceding each subsequent anniversary date of the beginning of amortization.
§ 203.261 Calculation of periodic MIP.
The amount of any periodic MIP shall be calculated in accordance with the original amortization provisions of the mortgage, without taking into account delinquent payments, prepayments, agreements to postpone payments, or agreements to recast the mortgage.
§ 203.262 Due date of periodic MIP.
The full initial and each annual MIP shall be due and payable to the Commissioner no later than the 10th day after the amortization anniversary date.
§ 203.264 Payment of periodic MIP.
The mortgagee shall pay each MIP in twelve equal monthly installments. Each monthly installment shall be due and payable to the Commissioner no later than the tenth day of each month, beginning in the month in which the mortgagor is required to make the first monthly mortgage payment. This will be effective for amortization beginning on or after September 1, 1996.
§ 203.265 Mortgagee’s late charge and interest.
(a) Periodic MIP which are received by the Commissioner after the payment dates prescribed by §§ 203.262 and 203.264 shall include a late charge of four percent of the amount paid.
(b) In addition to the late charge provided in paragraph (a) of this section, the mortgagee shall pay interest on any periodic MIP which are remitted to the Commissioner more than 20 days after the payment dates prescribed in § 203.264. Such interest rate shall be paid at a rate set in conformity with the Treasury Financial Manual.
§ 203.266 Period covered by periodic MIP.
The initial MIP shall cover the period beginning with the date of the issuance of a Mortgage Insurance Certificate and ending on the next anniversary of the beginning of amortization. Subsequent premium payments shall cover the twelve-month period preceding each subsequent anniversary date.
§ 203.267 Duration of periodic MIP.
The mortgagee shall pay the MIP to the Commissioner until the deed to the Commissioner is filed for record or the contract of insurance is terminated.
§ 203.268 Pro rata payment of periodic MIP.
(a) If the insurance contract is terminated before the due date of the initial MIP, the mortgagee shall pay a portion of the MIP prorated from the beginning of amortization, as defined in § 203.251, to the date of termination.
(b) If the insurance contract is terminated after the due date of the initial MIP, the mortgagee shall pay a portion of the current annual MIP prorated from the due date of the last annual MIP to the date of termination.
(c) A pro rata MIP shall not be due or payable where the mortgagee notifies the Commissioner that foreclosure or other action to acquire the property has been completed and that the property will not be conveyed to the Commissioner in exchange for insurance benefits. Any MIP due and paid after the institution of foreclosure or the date the property was otherwise acquired by the mortgagee will be refunded to the mortgagee upon receipt by the Commissioner of the notice from the mortgagee that the property will not be conveyed to the Commissioner.
§ 203.269 Method of payment of periodic MIP.
In cases that the Commissioner deems appropriate, the Commissioner may require, by means of instructions communicated to all affected mortgagees, that periodic MIP be remitted electronically.
Open-end Insurance Charges – All Mortgages
§ 203.270 Open-end insurance charges.
(a) Required charge. In the case of an insured open-end advance the mortgagee shall pay to the Commissioner an open-end insurance charge.
(b) Payment of charge for mortgages with periodic MIP. The amount of any insured open-end advance shall be added to the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the purpose of determining the amount of periodic MIP as provided in §§ 203.260 through 203.268, except that the initial additional charge shall be prorated to cover the period beginning with the first day of the month following the issuance of a certificate evidencing the insurance of the open-end advance and ending on the due date of the next MIP.
(c) Payment of charge for mortgages with one-time or up-front MIP. In the case of a mortgage with a one-time or up-front MIP pursuant to § 203.280, § 203.284, or § 203.285 of this part, the insurance charge shall be in an amount equal to
(d) Method of payment – all mortgages. The payment of any open-end insurance charge under this subpart shall be made to the Commissioner by the mortgagee either in cash or debentures issued by the Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund at par plus accrued interest.
Mortgage Insurance Premiums – One-Time Payment
§ 203.280 One-time or Up-front MIP.
For mortgages for which a one-time or up-front MIP is to be charged in accordance with §§ 203.259a, 203.284, or 203.285, the mortgagee shall, as a condition to the endorsement of the mortgage for insurance, pay to the Commissioner for the account of the mortgagor, in a manner prescribed by the Commissioner, a premium representing the total obligation for the insuring of the mortgage by the Commissioner or the up-front portion of the total obligation, as applicable, within 10 calendar days after the date of loan closing or within 10 calendar days after the date of disbursement of the mortgage proceeds, whichever is later.
§ 203.281 Calculation of one-time MIP.
(a) The applicable premium percentage determined under paragraph (b) of this section assumes, for purposes of calculation, that the entire amount of the one-time MIP is added to the loan amount. The amount of the one-time MIP shall be determined by multiplying the loan amount otherwise insurable under this part by the applicable premium percentage, subject to adjustment for the portion of the MIP, if any, that is not to be included in the insured mortgage.
(b)(1) The Commissioner shall determine the applicable premium percentage in accordance with sound financial and actuarial practice.
(2) Application of the premium percentage determined under paragraph (b)(1) of this section shall not result in a MIP in excess of an amount equivalent to 1 per centum per annum of the amount of the principal obligation of the mortgage outstanding at any time, without taking into account delinquent payments or prepayments.
(c) The applicable premium percentage will be published by notice at least annually in the
§ 203.282 Mortgagee’s late charge and interest.
(a) Payment of a one-time or up-front MIP is late if not received by HUD within 10 calendar days after the date of loan closing or within 10 calendar days after the date of disbursement of the mortgage proceeds, whichever is later. Late payments shall include a late charge of four percent of the amount of the MIP.
(b) If payment of the MIP is not received by HUD within 30 days after the date of loan closing or within 30 calendar days after the date of disbursement of the mortgage proceeds, whichever is later, the mortgagee will be charged additional late fees until payment is received at an interest rate set in conformity with the Treasury Fiscal Requirements Manual.
§ 203.283 Refund of one-time MIP.
(a) The Commissioner shall provide for the refund to the mortgagor of a portion of the unearned MIP paid pursuant to § 203.280 if the contract of insurance covering the mortgage is terminated:
(1) By coveyance to one other than the Commissioner and a claim for the insurance benefits is not presented for payment (§ 203.315),
(2) By prepayment of the mortgage (§ 203.316), or
(3) By voluntary agreement with the approval of the Commissioner (§ 203.317).
(b) The Commissioner shall determine the amount of the premium refund by multiplying the amount the premium paid at the time the mortgage was insured by the applicable premium refund percentage for mortgages insured in the year the mortgage was endorsed for insurance. The Commissioner shall determine the applicable premium refund percentage for each year in an equitable manner and in accordance with sound financial and actuarial practice, taking into account: (1) Projected salaries and expenses, (2) prospective losses generated by insurance claims, and (3) expected future payments of premium refunds.
Calculation of Mortgage Insurance Premium on or After July 1, 1991
§ 203.284 Calculation of up-front and annual MIP on or after July 1, 1991.
Except for insured mortgages with a term of 15 or fewer years executed on or after December 26, 1992, (see § 203.285 of this part), up-front and annual MIP will be calculated in accordance with this section.
(a) Permanent provisions. Any mortgage executed on or after October 1, 1994, that is an obligation of the Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund, as well as any mortgage executed after December 27, 2005, which is insured under sections 203(k) or 234(c) of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1709(k) and 12 U.S.C. 1715y(c)) shall be subject to the following requirements:
(1) Up-Front. The Commissioner shall establish and collect a single premium payment in an amount not exceeding 2.25 percent of the amount of the original insured principal obligation of the mortgage.
(2) Annual. In addition to the premium under paragraph (a)(1) of this section, the Commissioner shall establish and collect annual premium payments in an amount not exceeding .50 percent of the remaining insured principal balance (excluding the portion of the remaining balance attributable to the premium collected under paragraph (a)(1) of this section) for the following periods:
(i) For any mortgage involving an original principal obligation (excluding any premium collected under paragraph (a)(1) of this section) that is less than 90 percent of the appraised value of the property (as of the date of the mortgage is accepted for insurance), for the first 11 years of the mortgage term.
(ii) For any mortgage involving an original principal obligation (excluding any premium collected under paragraph (a)(1) of this section) that is greater than or equal to 90 percent of the appraised value of the property (as of the date the mortgage is accepted for insurance), for the lesser of the mortgage term or the first 30 years of the mortgage term; except that, for any mortgage involving an original principal obligation (excluding any premium collected under paragraph (a)(1) of this section) that is greater than 95 percent of the appraised value, the annual premium collected during the period determined under this clause shall be in an amount not exceeding 0.55 percent of the remaining insured principal balance (excluding the portion of the remaining balance attributable to the premium collected under paragraph (a)(1) of this section).
(b) Transition provisions; savings provision. Mortgages that are obligations of the Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund and that were insured during Fiscal Years 1991-1994, are governed by 24 CFR 203.284(b) as in effect on April 1, 2003, (see 24 CFR parts 200-499 revised as of April 1, 2003).
(c) Refunds. With respect to any mortgage subject to premiums under this section, the Commissioner shall refund all of the unearned premium charges paid on a mortgage upon termination of insurance by voluntary agreement or upon payment in full of the principal obligation of the mortgage before the maturity date.
(d)-(e) [Reserved]
(f) Applicability of other sections. The provisions of §§ 203.261, 203.262, 203.264, 203.265, 203.266, 203.267, 203.268, 203.269, 203.280, and 203.282 are applicable to mortgages subject to premiums under this section.
(g) Definition. As used in this section the term remaining insured principal balance means the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the first year of amortization, or for a 12-month period preceding a subsequent anniversary date of the beginning of amortization.
(h) Exception for streamline refinance. This section shall not apply to any mortgage insured pursuant to § 203.43(c) if the mortgage to be refinanced was executed before July 1, 1991 and the new mortgage is executed on or after April 24, 1992. This exception does not have the effect of exempting streamline refinancing mortgages from the requirement that a one-time MIP be paid in accordance with § 203.259a(a).
§ 203.285 Fifteen-year mortgages: Calculation of up-front and annual MIP on or after December 26, 1992.
(a) Up-front. Any mortgage for a term of 15 or fewer years executed on or after December 26, 1992, that is an obligation of the Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund, and any mortgage executed on or after December 27, 2005, to be insured under sections 203(k) and 234(c) of the National Housing Act, shall be subject to a single up-front premium payment established and collected by the Commissioner in an amount not exceeding 2.0 percent of the amount of the original insured principal obligation of the mortgage. Upon termination of insurance by voluntary agreement, or upon payment in full of the principal obligation of the mortgage before the maturity date, the Commissioner shall refund all of the unearned premium charges paid on the mortgage pursuant to this paragraph (a).
(b) Annual. In addition to the premium under paragraph (a) of this section, the Commissioner shall establish and collect annual premium payments in amounts not exceeding the following percentages of the remaining insured principal balance (excluding the portion of the remaining balance attributable to the premium collected under paragraph (a) of this section) for the following periods:
(1) For any mortgage involving an original principal obligation (excluding any premium collected under paragraph (a) of this section) that is less than 90 percent of the appraised value of the property (as of the date the mortgage is accepted for insurance), no annual premium will be charged.
(2) For any mortgage involving an original principal obligation (excluding any premium collected under paragraph (a) of this section) that is greater than or equal to 90 percent of such value, but less than or equal to 95 percent of such value, an annual premium not exceeding .25 percent shall be collected for the first four years of the mortgage term.
(3) For any mortgage involving an original principal obligation (excluding any premium collected under paragraph (a) of this section) that is greater than 95 percent of such value, an annual premium not exceeding .25 percent shall be collected for the first eight years of the mortgage term.
(c) Applicability of certain provisions. The provisions of §§ 203.261, 203.262, 203.264, 203.265, 203.266, 203.267, 203.268, 203.269, 203.280, 203.282, 203.284(c), and 203.284(g) are applicable to mortgages subject to premiums under this section.
(d) Exception for streamline refinance. This section shall not apply to any mortgage insured pursuant to § 203.43(c) if the mortgage to be refinanced was executed before July 1, 1991 and the new mortgage is executed on or after December 26, 1992.
Adjusted Mortgage Insurance Premium
Notwithstanding any provision in the mortgage instrument, there shall be no adjusted mortgage insurance premium due the Commissioner on account of the prepayment of any mortgage on or after May 1, 1972.
Voluntary Termination
§ 203.295 Voluntary termination.
Upon request by the mortgagor and mortgagee the Commissioner may terminate the insurance contract on any mortgage under this part covering a 1-to-4 family residence. The mortgagee shall cancel the insurance endorsement on the mortgage insurance certificate or note upon receipt of notice from the Commissioner that the contract of insurance is terminated. Notwithstanding any provision in a mortgage instrument, there shall be no voluntary termination charge due the Commissioner on account of the voluntary termination of any mortgage insurance contract where the request for termination is received by the Commissioner on or after May 1, 1972.
Termination of Insurance Contract
§ 203.315 Termination by conveyance to other than Commissioner.
(a) For those mortgages to which the provisions of § 203.368 apply, the contract of insurance shall be terminated under the following circumstances:
(1) The mortgagee notifies the Commissioner that it will not convey title to the Commissioner and will not file a claim for the insurance benefits when:
(i) The mortgagee either acquires the property by any means, or
(ii) Acquires the property and gives such notice during the redemption period; or
(2) The mortgagee notifies the Commissioner that it will not file a claim for the insurance benefits when:
(i) The property is bid in and acquired at foreclosure by a party other than the mortgagee, or
(ii) After foreclosure of the mortgaged property by the mortgagee the property is redeemed.
(b) For those mortgages to which the provisions as set forth in § 203.368 do not apply, the contract of insurance shall be terminated under the following circumstances:
(1) The mortgagee acquires the mortgaged property but does not convey it to the Commissioner;
(2) The property is bid in and acquired at a foreclosure sale by a party other than the mortgagee;
(3) After foreclosure the property is redeemed;
(4) After foreclosure and during the redemption period the mortgagee gives notice that it will not tender the property to the Commissioner.
§ 203.316 Termination by prepayment of mortgage.
The contract of insurance shall be terminated if the mortgage is paid in full prior to its maturity.
§ 203.317 Termination by voluntary agreement.
The contract of insurance shall be terminated if the mortgagor and mortgagee jointly request termination.
§ 203.318 Notice of termination by mortgagee.
No contract of insurance shall be terminated until the mortgagee has given written notice thereof to the Commissioner within 15 calendar days from the occurrence of one of the approved methods of termination set forth in this subpart.
No contract of insurance shall be terminated until the mortgagee has paid to the Commissioner the pro rata portion of the current annual MIP or open-end insurance charge as set forth in this subpart.
§ 203.320 Notice and date of termination by Commissioner.
The Commissioner shall notify the mortgagee that the contract of insurance has been terminated and the effective termination date. The termination date shall be the last day of the month in which one of the following events has occurred:
(a)(1) For those mortgages to which the provisions of § 203.368 apply, the date foreclosure proceedings were instituted by the mortgagee, or the property was otherwise acquired by the mortgagee or a party other than the mortgagee (including the mortgagor or other party as redemptor) if the mortgagee notifies the Commissioner that title will not be conveyed to the Commissioner and a claim for the insurance benefits will not be presented for payment.
(2) For those mortgages to which the provisions of § 203.368 do not apply, the date foreclosure proceedings were instituted, or the property was otherwise acquired by the mortgagee, if the mortgagee notifies the Commissioner that title will not be conveyed to the Commissioner.
(b) The date the mortgage was prepaid in full.
(c) The date a voluntary termination request is received by the Commissioner.
§ 203.321 Effect of termination.
Upon termination of the contract of insurance, the obligation to pay any subsequent periodic MIP or open-end insurance charge shall cease and all rights of the mortgagor and mortgagee shall be terminated, except as otherwise provided in this part.
Default Under Mortgage
§ 203.330 Definition of delinquency and requirement for notice of delinquency to HUD.
(a) A mortgage account is delinquent any time a payment is due and not paid.
(b) Once each month on a day prescribed by HUD, the mortgagee shall report to HUD all mortgages insured under this part that were delinquent on the last day of the month, or that were reported as delinquent the previous month. The report shall be made in a manner prescribed by HUD.
§ 203.331 Definition of default, date of default, and requirement of notice of default to HUD.
(a) Default. If the mortgagor fails to make any payment or to perform any other obligation under the mortgage, and such failure continues for a period of 30 days, the mortgage shall be considered in default for the purposes of this subpart.
(b) Date of default. For the purposes of this subpart, the date of default shall be considered as 30 days after:
(1) The first uncorrected failure to perform any obligation under the mortgage; or
(2) The first failure to make a monthly payment that subsequent payments by the mortgagor are insufficient to cover when applied to the overdue monthly payments in the order in which they became due.
(c) Notice of default. Once each month, on a day prescribed by HUD, the mortgagee shall report to HUD all mortgages that were in default on the last day of the month, or that were reported as in default the previous month. The report shall be made in a manner prescribed by HUD.
(d) Number of days in month. For the purposes of this section, each month shall be considered to have 30 days.
§ 203.332 [Reserved]
§ 203.333 Reinstatement of defaulted mortgage.
If after default and prior to the completion of foreclosure proceedings the mortgagor shall cure the default, the insurance shall continue as if a default had not occurred, provided the mortgagor pays to the mortgagee such expenses as the mortgagee has incurred in connection with the foreclosure proceedings and the mortgagee gives written notice of reinstatement to the Commissioner.
Continuation of Insurance
§ 203.340 Special forbearance.
(a) If the conditions of § 203.614 are met and special forbearance relief is granted pursuant to that section, the contract of insurance shall continue in force except as otherwise provided in this subpart.
(b) The contract of insurance shall continue in force, except as otherwise provided in this subpart, when the conditions of this section which were effective prior to January 1, 1977, have been met and special forbearance relief is granted pursuant thereto prior to January 1, 1977.
§ 203.341 Partial claim.
If the conditions of § 203.371 are met and a partial claim is paid pursuant to that section, the contract of insurance shall continue in force, except as otherwise provided in this subpart.
§ 203.342 Mortgage modification.
If a mortgage is recast pursuant to § 203.616, the principal amount of the mortgage, as modified, shall be considered to be the “original principal balance of the mortgage” as that term is used in § 203.401.
§ 203.343 Partial release, addition or substitution of security.
(a) Except as provided in § 203.389(n), a mortgagee shall not release the security or any part thereof, while the mortgage is insured, without the prior consent of the Commissioner.
(b) A mortgagee may, with the prior consent of the Commissioner, accept an addition to, or substitution of, security for the purpose of removing the dwelling to a new lot under the following conditions:
(1) The mortgagee obtains a good and valid first lien on the property to which the dwelling is removed.
(2) All damages to the structure are repaired without cost to HUD.
(3) The property to which the dwelling is removed is in an area known to be reasonably free from natural hazards or, if in a flood zone, the mortgagor will insure or reinsure under the National Flood Insurance Program or obtain equivalent private flood insurance coverage as defined in § 203.16a.
(c) A mortgagee may, without the prior consent of the Commissioner, accept an addition to, or substitution of, security for the purpose of removing the dwelling to a new lot under the following conditions.
(1) The dwelling has survived an earthquake or other disaster with little damage, but continued location on the property might be hazardous.
(2) The conditions stated in paragraph (b) of this section exist.
(3) Immediately following the emergency removal the mortgagee notifies the Commissioner of the reasons for removal.
Forbearance Relief for Military Personnel
§ 203.345 Postponement of principal payments – mortgagors in military service.
In addition to the special forbearance relief afforded by §§ 203.340 through 203.342, if the mortgagor is a person in the military service (as defined in the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Act of 1940), the mortgagee may, by written agreement with the mortgagor, postpone for the period of military service and three months thereafter any part of the monthly payment which represents amortization of principal. The agreement shall contain a provision for the resumption of monthly payments after such period in amounts which will completely amortize the mortgage debt within the maturity as provided in the original mortgage. The agreement shall in no way affect the amount of the annual MIP which will continue to be calculated in accordance with the original amortization provisions of the mortgage.
§ 203.346 Postponement of foreclosure – mortgagors in military service.
If at any time during default the mortgagor is a “Person in military service,” as such term is defined in the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Act of 1940, the period during which the mortgagor is in such service shall be excluded in computing the period within which the mortgagee shall commence foreclosure or acquire the property by other means as provided in § 203.355 of this subpart. No postponement or delay in the prosecution of foreclosure proceedings during the period the mortgagor is in such military service shall be construed as failure on the part of the mortgagee to exercise reasonable diligence in prosecuting such proceedings to completion as required by this subpart.
Assignment of Mortgage
§ 203.350 Assignment of mortgage.
(a) Assignment of modified mortgages pursuant to section 230, National Housing Act. HUD may accept an assignment of any mortgage covering a one-to-four family residence if the following requirements are met:
(1) The mortgage was in default;
(2) The mortgagee has modified the mortgage under § 203.616 to cure the default and to provide for mortgage payments within the reasonable ability of the mortgagor to pay, at an interest rate not exceeding current market interest rates; and
(3) Such other conditions that HUD may prescribe, which may include the requirement that the mortgagee continue to be responsible for servicing the mortgage.
(b) Assignments pursuant to section 248, National Housing Act. Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph (a), the Commissioner shall, upon application by the mortgagee, approve the assignment to the Commissioner of any mortgage insured pursuant to section 248 of the National Housing Act (see § 203.43h) where the mortgagor has been in default for more than 90 days. The mortgagee may not request the Commissioner to accept an assignment until the mortgagee has submitted documents to the Commissioner showing that the requirements of § 203.604 have been met. HUD shall then notify the mortgagee of its approval of the mortgagee’s actions under § 203.604 and that the mortgagee may assign the mortgage to the Secretary, or HUD will specify what further action the mortgagee must take to meet the requirements of § 203.604.
(c) Assignment of mortgages insured pursuant to section 247, National Housing Act. Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph (a) of this section, the Secretary will, upon application by the mortgagee, agree to accept an assignment of any mortgage insured pursuant to section 247 of the National Housing Act (§ 203.43i of this part) where the mortgagor has been in default for more than 180 days, provided that the requirements of § 203.665 are satisfied.
(d) Assignment of mortgages authorized by section 203(q), National Housing Act. Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph (a) of this section, the Secretary will, upon application by the mortgagee, agree to accept assignment of any mortgage authorized by section 203(q) of the National Housing Act (§ 203.43j of this part) if
(1) The mortgagor has been in default for more than 90 days for failure to make a monthly payment,
(2) The requirements of § 203.666 are satisfied, and
(3) The date of default occurs before the mortgagor and the lessor execute a lease renewal or a new lease with a term of not less than five years beyond the maturity date of the mortgage, or with a term established by an arbitration award.
(e) Filing assignment for record. Within 30 days of the Secretary’s written agreement to accept assignment of a defaulted mortgage, or within such additional time as the Secretary authorizes in writing, the mortgagee must file the assignment for record.
§ 203.351 Application for insurance benefits and fiscal data.
On the date the assignment of the mortgage is filed for record, the mortgagee shall forward to the Commissioner the prescribed application for insurance benefits and fiscal data pertaining to the mortgage transaction, together with the receipts covering all disbursements, as required by the fiscal data form. In addition, the following requirements shall be met:
(a) Items to be included with application. The following items shall be forwarded to the Commissioner with the application:
(1) Credit and security instrument. The original credit and security instruments assigned without recourse or warranty, except that no act or omission of the mortgagee shall have impaired the validity and priority of the mortgage.
(2) Recorded assignment instrument. The original of the recorded assignment of mortgage. If the original of the assignment is not available, a copy shall be furnished and the original forwarded as soon as possible.
(3) Hazard insurance. All hazard insurance policies held in connection with the mortgaged property, together with a copy of the mortgagee’s notification to the carrier authorizing the amendment of the loss payable clause substituting the Commissioner as the mortgagee.
(4) Rights and interests. An assignment of all rights and interests arising under the mortgage, and all claims of the mortgagee against the mortgagor or others arising out of the mortgage transaction.
(5) Property. All property of the mortgagor held by the mortgagee or to which it is entitled (other than the cash items which are to be retained by the mortgagee).
(6) Records and accounts. All records, ledger cards, documents, books, papers and accounts relating to the mortgage transaction.
(7) Additional information. Any additional information or data which the Commissioner may require.
(8) Title evidence. All title evidence held by the mortgagee. It need not be extended to include the recordation of the assignment. If a mortgagee’s title policy is furnished, the Commissioner shall be a named insured under such policy.
(b) Items to be retained by mortgagee. The mortgagee shall retain all cash amounts held or deposited for the account of the mortgagor or to which it is entitled under the mortgage transaction that have not been applied in reduction of the principal mortgage indebtedness.
(c) Title evidence for mortgages insured under § 203.43d as set forth in § 203.385 shall accompany the application for insurance benefits.
§ 203.353 Certification by mortgagee.
At the time of assignment of the mortgage, the mortgagee shall certify to the Commissioner that:
(a) Priority of mortgage to liens. The mortgage is prior to all mechanics’ and materialmen’s liens filed of record, regardless of when such liens attach, and prior to all liens and encumbrances, or defects which may arise except such liens or other matters as may have been approved by the Commissioner;
(b) Amount due. The amount stated in the instrument of assignment is actually due and owing under the mortgage;
(c) Offsets or counterclaims. There are no offsets or counterclaims thereto and the mortgagee has a good right to assign.
Claim Procedure
§ 203.355 Acquisition of property.
(a) In general. Upon default of a mortgage, except as provided in paragraphs (b) through (i) of this section, the mortgagee shall take one of the following actions within nine months from the date of default, or within any additional time approved by the Secretary or authorized by §§ 203.345 or 203.346. For mortgages where the date of default is on or after February 1, 1998, the mortgagee shall take one or a combination of the following actions within six months of the date of default or within such additional time approved by HUD or authorized by §§ 203.345 or 203.346:
(1) Obtain a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure (see §§ 203.357, 203.389 and 203.402(f) of this part) with title being taken in the name of the mortgagee or the Secretary;
(2) Commence foreclosure;
(3) Enter into a special forbearance agreement under § 203.614;
(4) Complete a modification of the mortgage under § 203.616;
(5) Complete a refinance of the mortgage under § 203.43(c);
(6) Complete an assumption under § 203.512;
(7) File a partial claim under § 203.371; or
(8) Initiate a pre-foreclosure sale under § 203.370.
(b) Vacant or abandoned property. With respect to defaulted mortgages on vacant or abandoned property, if the mortgagee discovers, or should have discovered, that the property is vacant or abandoned, the mortgagee must commence foreclosure within the later of 120 days after the date the property became vacant, or 60 days after the date the property is discovered, or should have been discovered, to be vacant or abandoned; but no later than the number of months from the date of default as provided in paragraph (a) of this section. The mortgagee must not delay foreclosure on vacant or abandoned property because of the requirements of § 203.606.
(c) Prohibition of foreclosure within time limits. If the laws of the State in which the mortgaged property is located, or Federal bankruptcy law:
(1) Do not permit the commencement of foreclosure within the time limits described in paragraphs (a), (b), (g), (h) and (i) of this section, the mortgagee must commence foreclosure within 90 days after the expiration of the time during which foreclosure is prohibited; or
(2) Require the prosecution of a foreclosure to be discontinued, the mortgagee must recommence the foreclosure within 90 days after the expiration of the time during which foreclosure is prohibited.
(d) Property located on Indian land. Upon default of a mortgage on property located on Indian land insured pursuant to section 248 of the National Housing Act (see § 203.43h of this part), the mortgagee must comply with §§ 203.350(b) and 204.664 of this part.
(e) Property located on Hawaiian home lands. Upon default of a mortgage on property located on Hawaiian home lands insured pursuant to section 247 of the National Housing Act (see § 203.43i of this part), the mortgagee must comply with §§ 203.350(c) and 203.665 of this part.
(f) Property located on the Allegany Reservation of the Seneca Nation of Indians. Upon default of a mortgage on property located on the Allegany Reservation of the Seneca Nation of Indians authorized by section 203(q) of the National Housing Act (see § 203.43j of this part), the mortgagee must comply with §§ 203.350(d) and 203.666 of this part, unless the mortgagor and the lessor have executed a lease renewal or a new lease either with a term of not less than five years beyond the maturity date of the mortgage, or with a term established by arbitration award. If a lease renewal or new lease has been executed, the mortgagee must comply with paragraph (a) of this section.
(g) Pre-foreclosure sale procedure. Within 90 days of the end of a mortgagor’s participation in the pre-foreclosure sale procedure, or within the time limit described in paragraph (a) of this section, whichever is later, if no closing of an approved pre-foreclosure sale has occurred, the mortgagee must obtain a deed in lieu of foreclosure, with title being taken in the name of the mortgagee or the Secretary, or undertake one of the actions listed at § 203.355(a). The end-of-participation date is defined as:
(1) Four months after the date of commencement of participation, if there is no signed Contract of Sale at that time, unless extended by the Commissioner;
(2) Six months after the date of commencement of participation, if there is a signed contract but settlement has not occurred by that date, unless extended by the Commissioner;
(3) The date the mortgagee is notified of the mortgagor’s withdrawal from the Pre-foreclosure Sale procedure; or
(4) The date of the letter sent by the mortgagee to the mortgagor prior to the expiration of the customary participation period, terminating the mortgagor’s opportunity to participate in the Pre-foreclosure Sale procedure.
(h) Special forbearance. If the mortgagor fails to meet the requirements of a special forbearance under § 203.614 and the failure continues for 60 days, the mortgagee must undertake one of the actions listed at § 203.355(a) within the time limit described in paragraph (a) of this section or 90 days after the mortgagor’s failure to meet the special forbearance requirements, whichever is later.
(i) Modification under § 203.616, refinance under § 203.43(c), or assumption under § 203.512. Provided that the mortgagee has established the mortgagor’s eligibility within the time frame provided in § 203.355(a), if a mortgagee enters into a loss mitigation relief measure (i.e., modification under § 203.616, refinance under § 203.43(c), or assumption under § 203.512) and it fails, the six-month period provided in § 203.355(a) is extended by an additional 90 days to allow the mortgagee to try another loss mitigation tool or go to foreclosure.
§ 203.356 Notice of foreclosure and pre-foreclosure sale; reasonable diligence requirements.
(a) Notice of foreclosure and pre-foreclosure sale. The mortgagee must give notice to the Secretary, in a format prescribed by the Secretary, within 30 days after the institution of foreclosure proceedings. The mortgagee must give notice to the Secretary, in a format prescribed by the Secretary, within the time-frame prescribed by the Secretary, of the acceptance of any mortgagor into the pre-foreclosure sale procedure.
(b) Reasonable diligence. The mortgagee must exercise reasonable diligence in prosecuting the foreclosure proceedings to completion and in acquiring title to and possession of the property. A time frame that is determined by the Secretary to constitute “reasonable diligence” for each State is made available to mortgagees.
§ 203.357 Deed in lieu of foreclosure.
(a) Mortgagors owning one property. In lieu of instituting or completing a foreclosure, the mortgagee may acquire property from one other than a corporate mortgagor by voluntary conveyance from the mortgagor who certifies that he does not own any other property subject to a mortgage insured or held by FHA. Conveyance of the property by deed in lieu of foreclosure is approved subject to the following requirements:
(1) The mortgage is in default at the time the deed is executed and delivered;
(2) The credit instrument is cancelled and surrendered to the mortgagor;
(3) The mortgage is satisfied of record as a part of the consideration for such conveyance;
(4) The deed from the mortgagor contains a covenant which warrants against the acts of the grantor and all claiming by, through, or under him and conveys good marketable title;
(5) The mortgagee transfers to the Commissioner good marketable title accompanied by satisfactory title evidence.
(b) Corporate mortgagors. A mortgagee may accept a deed in lieu of foreclosure from a corporate mortgagor in compliance with the requirements of paragraph (a) of this section, if the mortgagee obtains the prior written consent of the Commissioner.
(c) Mortgagors owning more than one property. The mortgagee may accept a deed in lieu of foreclosure in compliance with the provisions of paragraph (a) of this section, from an individual who owns more than one property which is subject to a mortgage insured or held by the FHA if the mortgagee obtains the prior written consent of the Commissioner.
§ 203.358 Direct conveyance of property.
In acquiring the property or conveying the property to the Commissioner the mortgagee may arrange for the deed to be made directly to the Commissioner from the mortgagor or other grantor. The mortgagee shall be responsible for determining that such conveyance will comply with all of the provisions of this part conveying good marketable title and satisfactory title evidence.
§ 203.359 Time of conveyance to the Secretary.
(a) For mortgages insured under firm commitments issued prior to November 19, 1992 or under direct endorsement processing where the credit worksheet was signed by the mortgagee’s approved underwriter prior to November 19, 1992. After acquiring good marketable title to and possession of the property the mortgagee must transfer the property to the Secretary:
(1) Within 30 days after acquiring possession of the mortgaged property by foreclosure or other means; or
(2) Within such further time as may be necessary to complete the title examination and perfect the title.
(b) For mortgages insured under firm commitments issued on or after November 19, 1992, or under direct endorsement processing where the credit worksheet was signed by the mortgagee’s underwriter on or after November 19, 1992 – (1) Conveyance by the mortgagee. The mortgagee must acquire good marketable title and transfer the property to the Secretary within 30 days of the later of:
(i) Filing for record the foreclosure deed;
(ii) Recording date of deed in lieu of foreclosure;
(iii) Acquiring possession of the property;
(iv) Expiration of the redemption period; or
(v) Such further time as the Secretary may approve in writing.
(2) Direct conveyance. In cases where the mortgagee arranges for a direct conveyance of the property to the Secretary, the mortgagee must ensure that the property is transferred to the Secretary within 30 days of the reasonable diligence time frame specified in § 203.356 of this part.
§ 203.360 Notice of property transfer or pre-foreclosure sale and application for insurance benefits.
(a) On the date the deed is filed for record the mortgagee shall notify the Commissioner on a form prescribed by him of the filing of such conveyance and shall assign, without recourse or warranty any or all claims which the mortgagee has acquired in connection with the mortgage transaction, and as a result of the foreclosure proceedings or other means by which the mortgagee acquired or conveyed such property, except such claims as may have been released with the approval of the Commissioner.
(b) Within 30 days of the closing of an approved pre-foreclosure sale, the mortgagee shall notify the Commissioner on a form prescribed by him of the pre-foreclosure sale.
§ 203.361 Acceptance of property by Commissioner.
Upon receipt of notice of property transfer the Commissioner shall accept title to and possession of the property as of the date of the filing for record of the deed to the Commissioner, subject to compliance with the regulations in this part.
§ 203.362 Conditions for withdrawal of application for insurance benefits.
With the consent of the Commissioner, a mortgagee may withdraw an application for insurance benefits if the mortgagee agrees that it will:
(a) Accept a reconveyance of the property under a deed which warrants against the acts of the Commissioner and all claiming by, through, or under him; and
(b) Promptly file a reconveyance for record; and
(c) Accept without continuation the title evidence which it furnished the Commissioner; and
(d) Reimburse the Commissioner for property expenditures as set forth in § 203.364.
§ 203.363 Effect of noncompliance with regulations.
(a) For mortgages insured under firm commitments issued prior to November 19, 1992 or under direct endorsement processing where the credit worksheet was signed by the mortgagee’s approved underwriter prior to November 19, 1992. If, for any reason, the mortgagee fails to comply with the regulations in this subpart, the Secretary may hold processing of the application for insurance benefits in abeyance for a reasonable time in order to permit the mortgagee to comply, or, in the alternative, the Secretary may reconvey title to the property to the mortgagee, in which event the application for insurance benefits shall be considered as cancelled without prejudice to the rights of the mortgagee to reapply for insurance benefits at a subsequent date.
(b) For mortgages insured under firm commitments issued on or after November 19, 1992, or under direct endorsement processing where the credit worksheet was signed by the mortgagee’s underwriter on or after November 19, 1992. If, for any reason, the mortgagee fails to comply with the regulations in this subpart, the Secretary may hold processing of the application for insurance benefits in abeyance for a reasonable time in order to permit the mortgagee to comply. In the alternative to holding processing in abeyance, the Secretary may reconvey title to the property to the mortgagee, in which event the application for insurance benefits shall be considered as cancelled and the mortgagee shall refund the insurance benefits to the Secretary as well as other funds required by § 203.364 of this part. The mortgagee may reapply for insurance benefits at a subsequent date; provided, however, that the mortgagee may not be reimbursed for any expenses incurred in connection with the property after it has been reconveyed by the Secretary, or paid any debenture interest accrued after the date of initial conveyance or after the date conveyance was required by § 203.359 of this part, whichever is earlier, and there will be deducted from the insurance benefits any reduction in the Secretary’s estimate of the value of the property occurring from the time of reconveyance to the time of reapplication.
§ 203.364 Mortgagee’s liability for property expenditures.
Where the Secretary acquires a property and thereafter it becomes necessary for the Secretary to reconvey the property to the mortgagee due to the mortgagee’s noncompliance with these regulations or the application for insurance benefits is withdrawn with the consent of the Secretary, the mortgagee shall reimburse the Secretary for all expenses incurred in connection with such acquisition and reconveyance. The reimbursement shall include interest on the amount of insurance benefits refunded by the mortgagee from the date the insurance benefits were paid to the date of refund at an interest rate set in conformity with the Treasury Fiscal Requirements Manual, and the Secretary’s cost of holding the property, accruing on a daily basis, from the date the deed to the Secretary was filed for record to the date of reconveyance. These costs are based on the Secretary’s estimate of the taxes, maintenance and operating expenses of the property, and administrative expenses. Appropriate adjustments shall be made by the Secretary on account of any income received from the property.
§ 203.365 Documents and information to be furnished the Secretary; claims review.
(a) Items to be furnished the Secretary. Within 45 days after the deed is filed for record, in the case of a conveyance claim; or, in the case of a claim arising from a pre-foreclosure sale, within 30 days after the closing of the pre-foreclosure sale, unless extended by the Commissioner, the mortgagee must forward to the Secretary:
(1) A copy of the deed to the Secretary that has been filed for record and the title evidence continued so as to include recordation of the deed; or evidence, as prescribed by the Secretary, of the closing of the pre-foreclosure sale.
(2) Fiscal data pertaining to the mortgage transaction.
(3) Any additional information or data that the Secretary may require.
(b) Items to be retained by mortgagee. The mortgagee must retain all cash amounts, held or deposited for the account of the mortgagor or to which it is entitled under the mortgage transaction, that have not been applied in reduction of the principal mortgage indebtedness.
(c) Claim file to be maintained by mortgagee. (1) The Secretary may verify the accuracy of information regarding the insurance claim either before payment of the claim or after payment by periodic reviews of the mortgagee’s records. Mortgagees must reimburse the Secretary for any claim and interest overpaid because of incorrect, unsupported, or inappropriate information provided by the mortgagee, or because of failure to provide correct information.
(2) Mortgagees must maintain a claim file containing documentation supporting all information submitted for claim payment for at least three years after a claim has been paid. All claim files for claims paid during a period relating to an unresolved or ongoing claim review must be maintained until final resolution of such review. Information to be maintained in the claim file includes receipts covering all disbursements as required by the fiscal data form, ledger cards covering the mortgage transaction, and any additional information or data relevant to the mortgage transaction or insurance claim.
(3) The Secretary may review any claim file at any time during the three-year period after the claim has been paid. Denial of access to any files will be grounds for withdrawal of the mortgagee’s approved lender status, debarment by the Secretary, or immediate suspension of all claim payments.
(4) Within 24 hours of a request by the Secretary, a mortgagee must make available for review, or forward to the Secretary, hard copies of identified claim files.
(d) Statistical sampling. HUD may use statistical sampling in selecting claims to be reviewed and in determining the amount due the Secretary because of overpayment.
§ 203.366 Conveyance of marketable title.
(a) Satisfactory conveyance of title and transfer of possession. The mortgagee shall tender to the Commissioner a satisfactory conveyance of title and transfer of possession of the property. The deed or other instrument of conveyance shall convey good marketable title to the property, which shall be accompanied by title evidence satisfactory to the Commissioner.
(b) Conveyance of property without good marketable title. (1) For mortgages insured under firm commitments issued on or after November 19, 1992, or under direct endorsement processing where the credit worksheet was signed by the mortgagee’s underwriter on or after November 19, 1992, if the title to the property conveyed by the mortgagee to the Secretary is not good and marketable, the mortgagee must correct any title defect within 60 days after receiving notice from the Secretary, or within such further time as the Secretary may approve in writing.
(2) If the defect is not corrected within 60 days, or such further time as the Secretary approves in writing, the mortgagee must reimburse the Secretary for HUD’s costs of holding the property, accruing on a daily basis, and interest on the amount of insurance benefits paid to the mortgagee at an interest rate set in conformity with the Treasury Fiscal Requirements Manual from the date of such notice to the date the defect is corrected or until the Secretary reconveys the property to the mortgagee, as described in paragraph (b)(3) of this section. The daily holding costs to be charged a mortgagee shall include the costs specified in § 203.364 of this part.
(3) If the title defect is not corrected within a reasonable time, as determined by HUD, the Secretary will, after notice, reconvey the property to the mortgagee and the mortgagee must reimburse the Secretary in accordance with §§ 203.363 and 203.364 of this part.
§ 203.367 Contents of deed and supporting documents.
The deed and supporting accompanying documents shall be as follows:
(a) Deed. A deed conveying the property to the Federal Housing Commissioner. The deed shall:
(1) Contain covenants which warrant title against acts of the grantor, and all claiming by, through, or under said grantor, if the grantor is the mortgagee or mortgagor; if the grantor is a party other than the mortgagee or mortgagor, the special warranty covenants may be limited or amended to accord with the law of the particular jurisdiction.
(2) Recite nominal consideration, if such recital is adequate under the laws of the State in which the property is located or such other consideration as may be necessary to support the deed.
(b) Maps or survey. A map or diagram showing property location with reference to public streets or roads or a survey, if available. When a part of the property has been taken by condemnation proceedings or conveyance in lieu of condemnation, a map or diagram showing the part taken and the property remaining is required.
(c) Credit documents. The original credit and security instruments, if available or a deficiency judgment, if any, duly assigned or endorsed by the mortgagee, without recourse, to the Commissioner.
§ 203.368 Claims without conveyance procedure.
(a)(1) The requirements of this section apply to any insured mortgage subject to this subpart which was either insured pursuant to:
(i) A conditional commitment issued on or after November 30, 1983 or, as appropriate,
(ii) An application for mortgage insurance endorsement under the Single Family Direct Endorsement Program, as provided in § 203.255(b), where the property appraisal report was signed by the mortgagee’s underwriter on or after November 30, 1983.
(2) The requirements of this section shall also apply to any other mortgages subject to this subpart where the mortgagee elects to provide the notice to HUD required by paragraph (d) of this section.
(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph (a) of this section, the requirements of this section do not apply if the mortgaged property has been damaged as set out in § 203.378.
(c) Nothing in this section shall affect any rights or obligations arising under the procedures set forth in subpart C of this part.
(d) After initiating proceedings to foreclose an insured mortgage within the coverage of paragraph (a)(1) of this section by judicial, statutory, or other means authorized by the mortgage instrument, the mortgagee shall furnish notice of the foreclosure to the Commissioner, containing such information as shall be prescribed by the Commissioner, together with a copy of the notice of sale, on or before the date of first publication, posting, or other notice. The mortgagee foreclosing an insured mortgage subject to this subpart and within the coverage of paragraph (a)(2) of this section may elect to become subject to this section by providing such notices to the Commissioner in accordance with the preceding sentence.
(e) Where notice of the foreclosure sale is provided pursuant to paragraph (d) of this section, the Commissioner may elect to cause the mortgaged property to be appraised and to give written notice to the mortgagee, not less than five days prior to the date of the foreclosure sale, of the Commissioner’s estimate of the fair market value of the mortgaged property, less adjustments as the Commissioner may deem appropriate (which may include, without limitation, the Commissioner’s estimate of holding costs and resale costs that would be incurred if title to the mortgaged property were conveyed to the Commissioner). Such amount is referred to hereafter as the “Commissioner’s adjusted fair market value.”
(f) If the Commissioner fails to provide notice of the Commissioner’s adjusted fair market value to the mortgagee not less than five days prior to the scheduled date of foreclosure sale, this section shall have no further application and §§ 203.355 through 203.367 shall apply: Provided, that a mortgagee which receives the Commissioner’s notice at any time prior to the foreclosure sale may waive late receipt by so notifying the Commissioner, in which case this section shall apply.
(g) If the Commissioner provides notice of the Commissioner’s adjusted fair market value in accordance with paragraph (e) of this section the following shall be applicable:
(1) The mortgagee shall tender a bid at the foreclosure sale in the amount of the Commissioner’s adjusted fair market value.
(2) If the mortgagee acquires title to the mortgaged property pursuant to a bid at foreclosure sale in an amount equal to the Commissioner’s adjusted fair market value, the mortgagee may elect to retain title to the property and to file a claim for the insurance benefits computed as provided in § 203.401(b).
(3) If a party other than the mortgagee acquires title to the mortgaged property either pursuant to a bid at foreclosure sale or through the redemption of the property in an amount not less than the Commissioner’s adjusted fair market value, the mortgagee may file a claim for the insurance benefits computed as provided in § 203.401(b).
(4) If the mortgagee acquires title to the mortgaged property pursuant to a bid at foreclosure sale in an amount in excess of the Commissioner’s adjusted fair market value, the mortgagee is deemed to have elected to retain title to the property and is limited to filing a claim for the insurance benefits computed as provided in § 203.401(b). In the event the mortgagee can show good cause for having bid an amount in excess of the Commissioner’s adjusted fair market value, the Commissioner may, at his discretion, waive the provisions of this subparagraph and allow the mortgagee to convey title to the Commissioner and file a claim for the insurance benefits computed as provided in § 203.401(a). A mortgagee which has elected to follow the provisions of this section pursuant to paragraph (a)(2) of this section and bids an amount in excess of the Commissioner’s adjusted fair market value shall not be subject to the provisions of this subparagraph, and may elect to retain or convey title in filing a claim for the insurance benefits.
(5) In any other case, the mortgagee may file a claim for insurance benefits only upon conveyance of title to the mortgaged property to the Commissioner.
(h) If the Commissioner provides timely notice of the Commissioner’s adjusted fair market value in accordance with paragraph (e), the Commissioner may require the mortgagee to advertise the upcoming sale in addition to the standard legal notices which may be required by state law.
(i) Where a mortgagee files a claim for the insurance benefits without conveying title to the property to the Commissioner, as authorized by this section:
(1) Sections 203.358 through 203.367 shall not be applicable.
(2) The mortgagee shall assign to the Commissioner, without recourse or warranty, any or all claims which the mortgagee has acquired in connection with the mortgage transaction and as a result of the foreclosure proceedings or other means by which the mortgagee or party other than the mortgagee acquired such property, except such claims as may have been released with the approval of the Commissioner.
(3) The mortgagee shall forward to the Commissioner:
(i) Fiscal data pertaining to the mortgage transaction;
(ii) The original credit and security instruments, if available, or a deficiency judgment, if any, duly assigned or endorsed by the mortgagee, without recourse, to the Commissioner; and
(iii) Any additional information or data which the Commissioner may require.
(4) The mortgagee shall retain all cash amounts held or deposited for the account of the mortgagor or to which the mortgagee is entitled under the mortgage transaction that have not been applied in reduction of the principal mortgage indebtedness. Cash amounts shall be itemized and deducted from the claim pursuant to § 203.403. Receipts for disbursements are to be retained by the mortgagee and are to be made available upon request by the Commissioner.
(5) The mortgagee shall file its claim:
(i) Within 30 days after the mortgagee acquired good marketable title to the property; or
(ii) Within 30 days after a party other than the mortgagee acquired good marketable title to the property; or
(iii) In redemption States, within 30 days after the mortgagor or another party redeemed the property or the redemption period has expired; or
(iv) Within such other time as may be determined by the Commissioner.
(6) In any case in which the insurance benefits paid include, pursuant to § 203.402(c), hazard insurance premiums paid by the mortgagee, the portion of the hazard insurance premium allocable to the period after acquisition of title by the mortgagee or a third party shall be deducted from the mortgage insurance benefits otherwise payable.
§ 203.369 Deficiency judgments.
(a) Mortgages insured on or after March 28, 1988. (1) For mortgages insured pursuant to firm commitments issued on or after March 28, 1988, or pursuant to direct endorsement processing where the credit worksheet was signed by the mortgagee’s underwriter on or after March 28, 1988, the Secretary may require the mortgagee diligently to pursue a deficiency judgment in connection with any foreclosure. With respect to claims filed for insurance benefits on such mortgages, any judgment obtained by the mortgagee must be assigned to the Secretary.
(2) In cases where the Secretary requires the pursuit of a deficiency judgment and provides the mortgagee with the Secretary’s estimate of the fair market value of the property, less adjustments, in accordance with § 203.368(e) of this part, the mortgagee must tender a bid at the foreclosure sale in that amount, and must take all other appropriate steps in accordance with State law to obtain a deficiency judgment.
(b) Mortgages insured before March 28, 1988. For mortgages insured pursuant to firm commitments issued before March 28, 1988, or pursuant to direct endorsement processing where the credit worksheet was signed by the mortgagee’s underwriter before March 28, 1988, the Secretary may request that the mortgage diligently pursue a deficiency judgment in connection with the foreclosure. With respect to claims filed for insurance benefits on such mortgages, any judgment obtained by the mortgagee must be assigned to the Secretary.
(c) In cases where pursuit of a deficiency judgment is requested or required under this section, the Commissioner, where the Commissioner determines it appropriate under State law requirements, may extend the otherwise applicable period of time within which a deficiency judgment (and other claims against the mortgagor) and related credit documents must be assigned to the Commissioner under § 203.360, § 203.367 or § 203.368 of this subpart.
(d) In addition to meeting the requirements of § 203.356, in cases where the Commissioner determines it necessary because of State law requirements, the Commissioner may also require (or request, as the Commissioner may determine) the mortgagee to provide the Commissioner with notice of the mortgagee’s intent to institute foreclosure proceedings a reasonable amount of time before proceedings are instituted, in order that the Commissioner may be able effectively to require or request the mortgagee, in appropriate cases, to seek a deficiency judgment.
§ 203.370 Pre-foreclosure sales.
(a) General. HUD will pay FHA insurance benefits to mortgagees in cases where, in accordance with all regulations and procedures applicable to pre-foreclosure sales, the mortgaged property is sold by the mortgagor, after default and prior to foreclosure, at its current fair market value (less adjustments as the Commissioner may deem appropriate) but for less than the mortgage loan amount currently outstanding.
(b) Notification of mortgagor. The mortgagee shall give notice, according to prescribed procedures, of the opportunity to be considered for the pre-foreclosure sale procedure to each mortgagor in default. All notices to mortgagors must be in an accessible format, if requested, or if required by the person’s known disability, as required by 24 CFR part 9.
(c) Eligibility for the Pre-foreclosure Sale Procedure. In order to be considered for the pre-foreclosure sale procedure, a mortgagor:
(1) Must be an owner occupant in a single family residence that is security for a mortgage insured under this part, unless otherwise prescribed by the Secretary.
(2) Must have an account in default, for such period as determined by the Secretary, which default is the result of an adverse and unavoidable financial situation.
(3) Must have, at the time application is made to pursue a pre-foreclosure sale, a mortgaged property whose current fair market value, compared to the amount needed to discharge the mortgage, meets the criterion established by the Secretary, unless a variance is granted by the Secretary.
(4) Must have received an appropriate disclosure, as prescribed by the Secretary.
§ 203.371 Partial claim.
(a) General. Notwithstanding the conveyance, sale or assignment requirements for payment of a claim elsewhere in this part, HUD will pay partial FHA insurance benefits to mortgagees after a period of forbearance, the maximum length of which HUD will prescribe, and in accordance with this section.
(b) Requirements. The following conditions must be met for payment of a partial claim:
(1) The mortgagor has been delinquent for at least 4 months or such other time prescribed by HUD;
(2) The amount of the arrearage has not exceeded the equivalent of 12 monthly mortgage payments;
(3) The mortgagor is able to resume making full monthly mortgage payments;
(4) The mortgagor is not financially able to make sufficient additional payments to repay the arrearage within a time frame specified by HUD;
(5) The mortgagor is not financially qualified to support monthly mortgage payments on a modified mortgage or on a refinanced mortgage in which the total arrearage is included; and
(6) The mortgagor must have made a minimum number of monthly payments as prescribed by the Secretary on a case-by-case basis.
(c) Repayment of the subordinate lien. The mortgagor must execute a mortgage in favor of HUD with terms and conditions acceptable to HUD for the amount of the partial claim under § 203.414(a). HUD may require the mortgagee to be responsible for servicing the subordinate mortgage on behalf of HUD.
(d) Application for insurance benefits. Along with the prescribed application for partial claim insurance benefits, the mortgagee shall provide HUD with the original credit instrument no later than 60 days after execution. The mortgagee shall provide HUD with the original security instrument, required by paragraph (c) of this section, no later than 6 months following the date of execution. If the mortgagee experiences a delay from the recording authority, it may request an extension of time, in writing, from HUD. If the mortgagee does not provide the original of the note and security instrument within the prescribed deadlines, the mortgagee shall be required to reimburse the amount of the claim paid, including the incentive.
Condition of Property
§§ 203.375-203.376 [Reserved]
§ 203.377 Inspection and preservation of properties.
The mortgagee, upon learning that a property subject to a mortgage insured under this part is vacant or abandoned, shall be responsible for the inspection of such property at least monthly, if the loan thereon is in default. When a mortgage is in default and a payment thereon is not received within 45 days of the due date, and efforts to reach the mortgagor by telephone within that period have been unsuccessful, the mortgagee shall be responsible for a visual inspection of the security property to determine whether the property is vacant. The mortgagee shall take reasonable action to protect and preserve such security property when it is determined or should have been determined to be vacant or abandoned until its conveyance to the Secretary, if such action does not constitute an illegal trespass. “Reasonable action” includes the commencement of foreclosure within the time required by § 203.355(b) of this part.
§ 203.378 Property condition.
(a) Condition at time of transfer. When the property is transferred, or a mortgage is assigned to the Commissioner, the property shall be undamaged by fire, earthquake, flood, or tornado, except as set forth in this subpart.
(b) Damage to property by waste. The mortgagee shall not be liable for damage to the property by waste committed by the mortgagor, its heirs, successors or assigns in connection with mortgage insurance claims paid on or after July 2, 1968.
(c) Mortgagee responsibility. The mortgagee shall be responsible for:
(1) Damage by fire, flood, earthquake, hurricane, or tornado;
(2) Damage to or destruction of security properties on which the loans are in default and which properties are vacant or abandoned, when such damage or destruction is due to the mortgagee’s failure to take reasonable action to inspect, protect and preserve such properties as required by § 203.377 of this part, as to all mortgages insured on or after January 1, 1977; and
(3) As to all mortgages insured under firm commitments issued on or after November 19, 1992, or under direct endorsement processing where the credit worksheet was signed by the mortgagee’s underwriter on or after November 19, 1992, any damage of whatsoever nature that the property has sustained while in the possession of the mortgage if the property is conveyed to the Secretary without notice to and approval by the Secretary as required by § 203.379 of this part.
(d) Limitation. The mortgagee’s responsibility for property damage shall not exceed the amount of its insurance claim as to a particular property.
§ 203.379 Adjustment for damage or neglect.
(a) If the property has been damaged by fire, flood, earthquake, hurricane, or tornado, or, for mortgages insured on or after January 1, 1977, the property has suffered damage because of the mortgagee’s failure to take action as required by § 203.377, the damage must be repaired before conveyance of the property or assignment of the mortgage to the Secretary, except under the following conditions:
(1) If the prior approval of the Secretary is obtained, there will be deducted from the insurance benefits the Secretary’s estimate of the cost of repairing the damage or any insurance recovery received by the mortgagee, whichever is greater.
(2) If the property has been damaged by fire and was not covered by fire insurance at the time of the damage, or the amount of insurance coverage was inadequate to repair fully the damage, only the amount of insurance recovery received by the mortgagee, if any, will be deducted from the insurance benefits, provided the mortgagee certifies, at the time that a claim is filed for insurance benefits, that:
(i) At the time the mortgage was insured, the property was covered by fire insurance in an amount at least equal to the lesser of 100 percent of the insurable value of the improvements, or the principal loan balance of the mortgage; and
(ii) The insurer later cancelled this coverage or refused to renew it for reasons other than nonpayment of premium; and
(iii) The mortgagee made diligent though unsuccessful efforts within 30 days of any cancellation or non-renewal of hazard insurance, and at least annually thereafter, to secure other coverage or coverage under a FAIR Plan, in an amount described in paragraph (a)(2)(i) of this section, or if coverage to such an extent was unavailable at a reasonable rate, the greatest extent of coverage that was available at a reasonable rate; and
(iv) The extent of coverage obtained by the mortgagee in accordance with paragraph (a)(2)(iii) of this section was the greatest available at a reasonable rate, or if the mortgagee was unable to obtain insurance, none was available at a reasonable rate; and
(v) The mortgagee took the actions required by § 203.377 of this part.
(3) The certification requirements set out in paragraph (a)(2) of this section apply to any mortgage insured by HUD on or after September 22, 1980, for which a claim has not been filed before September 30, 1986. Any mortgage insured on or after September 22, 1980, for which a claim has been filed before September 30, 1986, but the claim has not been settled before that date, will be governed by § 203.379(b) (1986) Edition as it existed immediately before September 30, 1986.
(4)(i) As used in this section, reasonable rate means a rate that is not in excess of the rate or advisory rate set by the principal State-licensed rating organization for essential property insurance in the voluntary market, or if coverage is available under a FAIR Plan, the FAIR Plan rate.
(ii) If a State has neither a FAIR Plan nor a State-licensed rating organization for essential property insurance in the voluntary market, the mortgagee must provide to the HUD Field Office having jurisdiction, information concerning the lowest rates available from an insurer for the types of coverage involved, with a request for a determination of whether the rate is reasonable. HUD will determine the rate to be reasonable if it approximates the rate assessed for comparable insurance coverage applicable to similarly situated properties in a State that offers a FAIR Plan or maintains a State-licensed rating organization.
(b) For mortgages insured under firm commitments issued on or after November 19, 1992, or under direct endorsement processing where the credit worksheet was signed by the mortgagee’s underwriter on or after November 19, 1992, the provisions of paragraph (a) of this section apply and, in addition, if the property has been damaged during the time of the mortgagee’s possession by events other than fire, flood, earthquake, hurricane, or tornado, or if it was damaged notwithstanding reasonable action by the mortgagee as required by § 203.377 of this part, the mortgagee must provide notice of such damage to the Secretary and may not convey until directed to do so by the Secretary. The Secretary will either:
(1) Allow the mortgagee to convey the property damaged; or
(2) Require the mortgagee to repair the damage before conveyance, and the Secretary will reimburse the mortgagee for reasonable payments not in excess of the Secretary’s estimate of the cost of repair, less any insurance recovery.
(c) In the event the damaged property is conveyed to the Secretary without prior notice or approval as provided in paragraphs (a) or (b) of this section, the Secretary may:
(1) After notice, reconvey the property to the mortgagee and the mortgagee must reimburse the Secretary in accordance with §§ 203.363 and 203.364 of this part, or
(2) Require the mortgagee to reimburse the Secretary for the greater of the Secretary’s estimate of the cost of repair or any insurance recovery.
§ 203.380 Certificate of property condition.
(a) The mortgagee shall either:
(1) Certify that as of the date of the filing of deed for record, or assignment of the mortgage to the Secretary, the property was:
(i) Undamaged by fire, flood, earthquake, hurricane or tornado; and
(ii) As to mortgages insured or for which commitments to insure were issued on or after January 2, 1977, undamaged due to failure of the mortgagee to take action as required by § 203.377; and
(iii) As to mortgages insured under firm commitments issued on or after November 19, 1992, or under direct endorsement processing where the credit worksheet was signed by the mortgagee’s underwriter on or after November 19, 1992, undamaged while the property was in the possession of the mortgage; or
(2) Attach to its claim a copy of the Secretary’s authorization to convey the property in damaged condition.
(b) In the absence of evidence to the contrary, the mortgagee’s certificate or description of the damage shall be accepted by the Secretary as establishing the condition of the property, as of the date of the filing of the deed or assignment of the mortgage.
§ 203.381 Occupancy of property.
The mortgagee shall certify that the property is vacant and contains no personal property as of the date of filing for record of the deed to the Secretary or that the Secretary has consented to accept the property occupied.
§ 203.382 Cancellation of hazard insurance.
The mortgagee shall cancel any hazard insurance policy as of the date of the filing for record of the deed to the Commissioner subject to the following conditions:
(a) The amount of the return premium due the mortgagee because of such cancellation may be calculated on a “short-rate” basis and reported on fiscal data supporting the application for debentures and the amount shall be deducted from the total amount claimed.
(b) If the mortgagee’s calculation of the return premium is less than the actual return, the amount of the difference between the actual refund and the calculated amount shall be remitted to the Commissioner, accompanied by the carrier’s or agent’s statement.
(c) If the mortgagee’s calculation of the return premium is more than the actual return, the mortgagee may file with the Commissioner a claim, supported by the carrier’s or agent’s statement of the amount of the refund, whereupon the Commissioner shall issue a check to the mortgagee in settlement of the claim.
Property Title Transfers and Title Waivers
§ 203.385 Types of satisfactory title evidence.
The following types of title evidence shall be satisfactory to the Commissioner:
(a) Fee or owner’s title policy. A fee or owner’s policy of title insurance, a guaranty or guarantee of title, or a certificate of title, issued by a title company, duly authorized by law and qualified by experience to issue such instruments. If an owner’s policy of title insurance is furnished, it shall show title in the Commissioner and inure to the benefit of his successors in office.
(b) Mortgagee’s policy of title insurance. A mortgagee’s policy of title insurance supplemented by an Abstract and an Attorney’s Certificate of Title covering the period subsequent to the date of the mortgage, the terms of the policy shall be such that the liability of the title company will continue in favor of the Commissioner after title is conveyed to him. The policy may be drawn in favor of the mortgagee and the Federal Housing Commissioner, “as their interests may appear”, with the consent of the title company endorsed thereon;
(c) Abstract and legal opinion. An abstract of title prepared by an abstract company or individual engaged in the business of preparing abstracts of title and accompanied by the legal opinion as to the quality of such title signed by an attorney at law experienced in examination of titles. If title evidence consists of an Abstract and an Attorney’s Certificate of Title, the search shall extend for at least forty years prior to the date of the Certificate to a well recognized source of good title;
(d) Torrens of similar certificate. A Torrens or similar title certificate; or
(e) Title standard of U.S. or State government. Evidence of title conforming to the standards of a supervising branch of the Government of the United States or of any State or Territory thereof.
§ 203.386 Coverage of title evidence.
Evidence of title shall be executed as of a date to include the recordation of the deed to the Commissioner. The evidence of title shall show that according to the public records, there are not, at such date, any outstanding prior liens, including any past-due and unpaid ground rents, general taxes or special assessments.
§ 203.387 Acceptability of customary title evidence.
If the title and title evidence are such as to be acceptable to prudent lending institutions and leading attorneys generally in the community in which the property is situated, such title and title evidence shall be satisfactory to the Secretary and shall be considered as good and marketable. In cases of disagreement, the Secretary will make the final decision.
§ 203.389 Waived title objections.
The Commissioner shall not object to title by reason of the following matters:
(a) Violations of a restriction based on race, color or creed, even where such restriction provides for a penalty of reversion or forfeiture of title or a lien for liquidated damage.
(b)(1) Aviation easements, which were approved by the Secretary at the time of the origination of the mortgage, and other customary easements for public utilities, party walls, driveways, and other purposes.
(2) Easements for public utilities along one or more of the property lines and extending not more than 10 feet therefrom and for drainage or irrigation ditches along the rear 10 feet of the property, provided the exercise of the rights thereunder do not interfere with any of the buildings or improvements located on the subject property.
(c) Easements for underground conduits which are in place and do not extend under any buildings on the subject property;
(d) Mutual easements for joint driveways constructed partly on the subject property and partly on adjoining property, provided the agreements creating such easements are of record;
(e) Encroachments on the subject property by improvements on adjoining property where such encroachments do not exceed 1 foot, provided such encroachments do not touch any buildings or interfere with the use of any improvements on the subject property;
(f) Encroachments on adjoining property by eaves and overhanging projections attached to improvements on subject property where such encroachments do not exceed 1 foot.
(g) Encroachments on adjoining property by hedges, wooden or wire fences belonging to the subject property;
(h) Encroachments on adjoining property by driveways belonging to subject property where such encroachments do not exceed 1 foot, provided there exists a clearance of at least 8 feet between the buildings on the subject property and the property line affected by the encroachment;
(i) Variations between the length of the subject property lines as shown on the application for insurance and as shown by the record or possession lines, provided such variations do not interfere with the use of any of the improvements on the subject property and do not involve a deficiency of more than 2 percent with respect to the length of the front line or more than 5 percent with respect to the length of any other line;
(j) Encroachments by garages or improvements other than those which are attached to or a portion of the main dwelling structure over easements for public utilities, provided such encroachment does not interfere with the use of the easement or the exercise of the rights of repair and maintenance in connection therewith;
(k) Violations of cost or set back restrictions which do not provide a penalty of reversion or forfeiture of title, or a lien for liquidated damages which may be superior to the lien of the insured mortgage. Violations of such restrictions which do provide for such penalties, provided such penalty rights have been duly released or subordinated to the lien of the insured mortgage, or provided a policy of title insurance is furnished expressly insuring the Commissioner against loss by reason of such penalties.
(l) Customary building and use restrictions which:
(1) Are coupled with a reversionary clause, provided there has been no violation prior to the date of the deed to the Commissioner; or
(2) Are not coupled with a reversionary clause and have not been violated to a material extent.
(m) Outstanding oil, water or mineral rights (or damage caused by the exercise of such rights) which are customarily waived by prudent leading institutions and leading attorneys in the community.
(n) The voluntary or involuntary conveyance of a part of the subject property pursuant to condemnation proceedings or in lieu of condemnation proceedings, if:
(1) The part conveyed does not exceed 10 percent by area of the property;
(2) No damage to existing structures, improvements, or unrepaired damage to sewage, water, or paving has been suffered;
(3) All of the payment received as compensation for the taking by condemnation or conveyance in lieu of condemnation has been applied to reduction of the mortgage indebtedness;
(4) The conveyance occurred subsequent to insurance of the mortgage; and
(5) There is included with the documents and information furnished the Commissioner with the application for insurance benefits, a statement by the mortgagee that the requirements of this paragraph have been met.
(o) Federal tax liens and rights of redemption arising therefrom if the following conditions are observed. If the mortgagee acquires the property by foreclosure the mortgagee shall give notice to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of the foreclosure action. The Commissioner will not object to an outstanding right of redemption in IRS if: (1) The Federal tax lien was perfected subsequent to the date of the mortgage lien, and (2) The mortgagee has bid an amount sufficient to make the mortgagee whole if the property is in fact redeemed by the IRS.
§ 203.390 Waiver of title – mortgages or property formerly held by the Secretary.
(a) Mortgages sold by the Secretary. (1) If the Secretary sells a mortgage and such mortgage is later reassigned to him or the property covered by such mortgage is later conveyed to him, he will not object to title by reason of any lien or other adverse interest that was senior to the mortgage on the date of the original sale of such mortgage.
(2) The Secretary will accept an assignment of a mortgage previously sold by him, where the mortgagee is unable to complete foreclosure because of a defect in the mortgage instrument, a defect in the mortgage transaction, or a defect in title which existed at or prior to the time the mortgage assignment was filed for record. In such instances, the Secretary will not object to title by reason of any such defect.
(b) Property sold by the Secretary. (1) If a property held by the Secretary is sold by the Secretary who also insures a mortgage financing the sale, and the mortgage is later reassigned to the Secretary or the property covered by the mortgage is later conveyed to the Secretary, the Secretary will not object to title by reason of any lien or other adverse interest that was senior to the mortgage on the date the mortgage was filed for record, except where the lien or other adverse interest arose from a lien or interest that had already been recorded against the mortgagor.
(2) The Secretary will accept an assignment of a mortgage executed in connection with the sale of property by the Secretary, where the mortgagee is unable to complete foreclosure because of a defect in the mortgage instrument, a defect in the mortgage transaction, or a defect in title which existed at or prior to the time the mortgage was filed for record, except where the defect arose from a lien or interest that had already been recorded against the mortgagor on the date that the mortgage was filed for record. Except for the case of a lien or interest that had already been recorded against the mortgagor, the Secretary will not object to title by reason of any of the above defects.
§ 203.391 Title objection waiver with reduced insurance benefits.
Payment of an insurance claim will not automatically be refused solely because the title evidence reveals a condition of title not taken into consideration in the original appraisal and not covered by the provisions of § 203.389 of this part, or not otherwise waived in writing by the Secretary. In such instances, the Secretary may, at his or her option, approve the payment of a claim if the mortgagee agrees to accept a reduction in insurance benefits considered adequate by the Secretary to compensate for any anticipated loss to the Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund as a result of the existence of the title condition at the time of claim.
Payment of Insurance Benefits
§ 203.400 Method of payment.
(a) If the application for insurance benefits is acceptable to the Commissioner, payment of the insurance claim shall be made in cash, in debentures, or in a combination of both, as determined by the Commissioner either at, or prior to, the time of payment.
(b) An insurance claim paid on a mortgage insured under section 223(e) of the National Housing Act shall be paid in cash from the Special Risk Insurance Fund.
§ 203.401 Amount of payment – conveyed and non-conveyed properties.
(a) Conveyed properties. Where a claim for the insurance benefits is filed in accordance with this subpart, based on the conveyance of title to the mortgaged property to the Commissioner, the amount of the insurance benefits shall be computed by adding to the original principal balance of the mortgage (as increased by the amount of open-end advances made by the mortgagee and approved by the Commissioner) which was unpaid on the date of the institution of foreclosure proceedings, on the date of the acquisition of the property otherwise after default, or on the date the property was acquired by the Commissioner under a direct conveyance by the mortgagor, the amount of all payments made by the mortgagee and allowances for items set forth in § 203.402, less all applicable items set forth in § 203.403.
(b) Claims without conveyance of title. (1) If the mortgagee acquires title to the mortgaged property pursuant to a bid amount equal to the Commissioner’s adjusted fair market value and the mortgagee elects to retain title as provided in § 203.368(g)(2), or if the mortgagee acquires title pursuant to a bid in excess of the Commissioner’s adjusted fair market value (see § 203.368(g)(4)), the amount of the insurance benefits shall be determined by deducting the amount bid at the sale from the original principal balance of the mortgage (as increased by the amount of open-end advances made by the mortgagee and approved by the Commissioner) which was unpaid on the date of institution of the foreclosure proceedings, and adding to the difference, if any, all applicable items set forth in § 203.402 and subtracting therefrom all applicable items set forth in § 203.403; provided however, that appropriate adjustment shall be made for any such items covered by proceeds of the foreclosure sale.
(2) If a party other than the mortgagee acquires title to the mortgaged property pursuant to a bid at foreclosure sale not less in amount than the Commissioner’s adjusted fair market value, the amount of the insurance benefits shall be determined by deducting the proceeds of the foreclosure sale distributed to the mortgagee from the original principal balance of the mortgage (as increased by the amount of open-end advances made by the mortgagee and approved by the Commissioner) which was unpaid on the date of the foreclosure proceedings, and adding to the difference, if any, all applicable items set forth in § 203.402 and subtracting therefrom all applicable items set forth in § 203.403; provided, however, that appropriate adjustment shall be made for any such items covered by the proceeds of the foreclosure sale.
(3) If the mortgagee acquires title to the mortgaged property pursuant to a bid not less in amount than the Commissioner’s adjusted fair market value, and the mortgagor or another party redeems the property, the amount of the insurance benefits shall be determined by deducting the amount paid to redeem the property and received by the mortgagee from the original principal balance of that mortgage (as increased by the amount of open-end advances made by the mortgagee and approved by the Commissioner) which was unpaid on the date of the institution of foreclosure proceedings, and adding to the difference, if any, all applicable items set forth in § 203.402 and subtracting therefrom all applicable items set forth in § 203.403; provided however, that appropriate adjustments shall be made for any such items covered by that amount paid by the mortgagor or other party to redeem the property.
(c) Pre-foreclosure Sales. Where a claim for insurance benefits is filed in accordance with this subpart, based on a pre-foreclosure sale approved by or on behalf of the Secretary (under the provisions of § 203.370), the amount of insurance benefits shall be computed by adding to the original principal balance of the mortgage (as increased by the amount of open-end advances made by the mortgagee and approved by the Commissioner) which was unpaid on the date of closing of the pre-foreclosure sale, the amount of all applicable items set forth in § 203.402; provided however that appropriate adjustment shall be made for any such items covered by proceeds of the pre-foreclosure sale.
(d) Final Payment. (1) The mortgagee may not file for any additional payments of its mortgage insurance claim after six months from payment by the Commissioner of the final payment except for:
(i) Cases where the Commissioner requests or requires a deficiency judgment.
(ii) Other cases where the Commissioner determines it appropriate and expressly authorizes an extension of time.
(2) For the purpose of this section, the term final payment shall mean, in the case of claims filed for conveyed properties, the payment under subpart B of this part which is made by the Commissioner based upon the submission by the mortgagee of all required documents and information filed pursuant to § 203.365. In the case of claims filed under claims without conveyance of title, final payment shall mean the payment which is made by the Commissioner based upon submission by the mortgagee of all required documents and information filed pursuant to §§ 203.368 and 203.401(b). In the case of claims filed pursuant to pre-foreclosure sales, final payment shall mean the payment which is made by the Commissioner based upon submission by the mortgagee of all required documents and information filed pursuant to §§ 203.370 and 203.401(d).
§ 203.402 Items included in payment – conveyed and non-conveyed properties.
The insurance benefits paid in connection with foreclosed properties, whether or not conveyed to the Commissioner; and those properties conveyed to the Commissioner as a result of a deed in lieu of foreclosure; and those properties sold under an approved pre-foreclosure sale shall include the following items:
(a) Taxes, ground rents, water rates, and utility charges that are liens prior to the mortgage.
(b) Special assessments, which are noted on the application for insurance or which become liens after the insurance of the mortgage.
(c) Hazard insurance premiums on the mortgaged property not in excess of a reasonable rate as defined in § 203.379(a)(4).
(d) Periodic MIP or open-end insurance charges;
(e) Taxes imposed upon any deeds or other instruments by which said property was acquired by the mortgagee and transferred or conveyed to the Commissioner, or was acquired by the mortgagee and retained pursuant to § 203.368;
(f) Foreclosure costs or costs of acquiring the property otherwise (including costs of acquiring the property by the mortgagee and of conveying and evidencing title to the property to HUD, but not including any costs borne by the mortgagee to correct title defects) actually paid by the mortgagee and approved by HUD, in an amount not in excess of two-thirds of such costs or $75, whichever is the greater. For mortgages insured on or after February 1, 1998, the Secretary will reimburse a percentage of foreclosure costs or costs of acquiring the property, which percentage shall be determined in accordance with such conditions as the Secretary shall prescribe. Where the foreclosure involves a mortgage sold by the Secretary on or after August 1, 1969, or a mortgage executed in connection with the sale of property by the Secretary on or after such date, the mortgagee shall be reimbursed (in addition to the amount determined under the foregoing) for any extra costs incurred in the foreclosure as a result of a defect in the mortgage instrument, or a defect in the mortgage transaction or a defect in title which existed at or prior to the time the mortgage (or its assignment by the Secretary) was filed for record, if the mortgagee establishes to the satisfaction of the Commissioner that such extra costs are over and above those customarily incurred in the area.
(g)(1) For mortgages insured under firm commitments issued before November 19, 1992, or under direct endorsement processing where the credit worksheet was signed by the mortgagee’s underwriter before November 19, 1992, reasonable payments made by the mortgagee, with the approval of the Secretary, for the purpose of protecting, operating, or preserving the property, or removing debris from the property.
(2) For mortgages insured under firm commitments issued on or after November 19, 1992, or under direct endorsement processing where the credit worksheet was signed by the mortgagee’s underwriter on or after November 19, 1992, reasonable payments made by the mortgagee, with the approval of the Secretary, for the purpose of protecting, operating, or preserving the property, or removing debris from the property prior to the time of conveyance required by § 203.359 of this part.
(3) Reasonable costs for performing the inspections required by § 203.377 of this part and to determine if the property is vacant or abandoned are considered to be costs of protecting, operating or preserving the property.
(h) Any uncollected mortgage interest allowed pursuant to an approved forbearance plan;
(i) An amount which the Commissioner finds to be sufficient to compensate the mortgagee for any loss which it may have sustained on account of interest on debentures and the payment of any MIP and open-end insurance charge by reason of its having postponed the institution of foreclosure proceedings or the acquisition of the property by other means under a mortgage to which the provisions of sections 302 and 306 of the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Act of 1940, as amended, apply during any part or all of the period of the mortgagor’s military service and three months thereafter;
(j) Charges for the administration, operation, maintenance, or repair of community-owned property or the maintenance or repair of the mortgaged property, paid by the mortgagee for the purpose of discharging an obligation arising out of a covenant filed for record prior to the issuance of the mortgage; and charges for the repair or maintenance of the mortgaged property required by, and in an amount approved by, the Secretary under § 203.379 of this part.
(k)(1) Except as provided in paragraphs (k)(1)(i) and (ii) of this section, for properties conveyed to the Secretary and endorsed for insurance on or before January 23, 2004, an amount equivalent to the debenture interest that would have been earned, as of the date such payment is made, on the portion of the insurance benefits paid in cash, if such portion had been paid in debentures, and for properties conveyed to the Secretary and endorsed for insurance after January 23, 2004, debenture interest at the rate specified in § 203.405(b) from the date specified in § 203.410, as applicable, to the date of claim payment, on the portion of the insurance benefits paid in cash.
(i) When the mortgagee fails to meet any one of the applicable requirements of §§ 203.355, 203.356(b), 203.359, 203.360, 203.365, 203.606(b)(l), or 203.366 within the specified time and in a manner satisfactory to the Secretary (or within such further time as the Secretary may approve in writing), the interest allowance in such cash payment shall be computed only to the date on which the particular required action should have been taken or to which it was extended;
(ii) When the mortgagee fails to meet the requirements of § 203.356(a) within the specified time and in a manner satisfactory to the Secretary (or within such further time as the Secretary may specify in writing), the interest allowance in such cash payment shall be computed to a date set administratively by the Secretary.
(2)(i) Where a claim for insurance benefits is being paid without conveyance of title to the Commissioner in accordance with § 203.368 and was endorsed for insurance on or before January 23, 2004, an amount equivalent to the sum of:
(A) The debenture interest that would have been earned, as of the date the mortgagee or a party other than the mortgagee acquires good marketable title to the mortgaged property, on an amount equal to the amount by which an insurance claim determined in accordance with § 203.401(a) exceeds the amount of the actual claim being paid in debentures; plus
(B) The debenture interest that would have been earned from the date the mortgagee or a party other than the mortgagee acquires good marketable title to the mortgaged property to the date when payment of the claim is made, on the portion of the insurance benefits paid in cash if such portion had been paid in debentures, except that if the mortgagee fails to meet any of the applicable requirements of §§ 203.355, 203.356, and 203.368(i)(3) and (5) within the specified time and in a manner satisfactory to the Commissioner (or within such further time as the Commissioner may approve in writing), the interest allowance in such cash payment shall be computed only to the date on which the particular required action should have been taken or to which it was extended.
(ii) Where a claim for insurance benefits is being paid without conveyance of title to the Commissioner in accordance with § 203.368 and was endorsed for insurance after January 23, 2004, an amount equivalent to the sum of:
(A) Debenture interest at the rate specified in § 203.405(b) from the date specified in § 203.410, as applicable, to the date that the mortgagee or a party other than the mortgagee acquires good marketable title to the mortgaged property, on an amount equal to the amount by which an insurance claim determined in accordance with § 203.401(a) exceeds the amount of the actual claim being paid in debentures; plus
(B) Debenture interest at the rate specified in § 203.405(b) from the date the mortgagee or a person other than the mortgagee acquires good marketable title to the mortgaged property to the date when payment of the claim is made, on the portion of the insurance benefits paid in cash, except that if the mortgagee fails to meet any of the applicable requirements of §§ 203.355, 203.356, and 203.368(i)(3) and (5) of this chapter within the specified time and in a manner satisfactory to the Commissioner (or within such further time as the Commissioner may approve in writing), the interest allowance in such cash payment shall be computed only to the date on which the particular required action should have been taken or to which it was extended.
(3)(i) Where a claim for insurance benefits is being paid following a pre-foreclosure sale, without foreclosure or conveyance to the Commissioner in accordance with § 203.370, and the mortgage was endorsed for insurance on or before January 23, 2004, an amount equivalent to the sum of:
(A) The debenture interest that would have been earned, as of the date of the closing of the pre-foreclosure sale on an amount equal to the amount by which an insurance claim determined in accordance with § 203.401(a) exceeds the amount of the actual claim being paid in debentures; plus
(B) The debenture interest that would have been earned, from the date of the closing of the pre-foreclosure sale to the date when payment of the claim is made, on the portion of the insurance benefits paid in cash, if such portion had been paid in debentures; except that if the mortgagee fails to meet any of the applicable requirements of § 203.365 within the specified time and in a manner satisfactory to the Commissioner (or within such further time as the Commissioner may approve in writing), the interest allowance in such cash payment shall be computed only to the date on which the particular required action should have been taken or to which it was extended.
(ii) Where a claim for insurance benefits is being paid following a pre-foreclosure sale, without foreclosure or conveyance to the Commissioner, in accordance with § 203.370, and the mortgage was endorsed for insurance after January 23, 2004, an amount equivalent to the sum of:
(A) Debenture interest at the rate specified in § 203.405(b) from the date specified in § 203.410, as applicable, to the date of the closing of the pre-foreclosure sale, on an amount equal to the amount by which an insurance claim determined in accordance with § 203.401(a) exceeds the amount of the actual claim being paid in debentures; plus
(B) Debenture interest at the rate specified in § 203.405(b) from the date of the closing of the pre-foreclosure sale to the date when the payment of the claim is made, on the portion of the insurance benefits paid in cash, except that if the mortgagee fails to meet any of the applicable requirements of § 203.365 within the specified time and in a manner satisfactory to the Commissioner (or within such further time as the Commissioner may approve in writing), the interest allowance in such cash payment shall be computed only to the date on which the particular required action should have been taken or to which it was extended.
(l) Reasonable costs of appraisal under § 203.368(e) or pursuant to § 203.370;
(m) Costs of additional advertising under 203.368(h);
(n) Costs of foreclosure as computed in paragraph (f) of this section where the acquiring party is one other than the mortgagee, as provided in § 203.368;
(o) In any case in which the Commissioner, pursuant to § 203.369, requires or requests that the mortgagee seek a deficiency judgment, an amount necessary to reimburse the mortgagee for those additional costs incurred that exceed the costs of foreclosure. In those jurisdictions that require the initiation of a judicial foreclosure action in order to obtain a deficiency judgment, a mortgagee shall receive full reimbursement for the costs of the foreclosure action, where, but for the requested deficiency judgment, judicial foreclosure would not have been necessary.
(p) An amount approved by HUD and paid to the mortgagor as consideration for the execution of a deed in lieu of foreclosure and, if authorized by HUD, an administrative fee approved by HUD paid to the mortgagee for its role in facilitating a successful deed in lieu of foreclosure, not to be subject to the payment of debenture interest thereon.
(q) Reasonable costs incurred in evicting occupants and in removing personal property from acquired properties;
(r) Notwithstanding any other provision in this section, the mortgagee will not be reimbursed for any expenses incurred in connection with the property after a reconveyance from the Secretary to the mortgagee as provided in § 203.363(b) of this part.
(s) Reasonable costs of the title search ordered by the mortgagee, in accordance with procedures prescribed by HUD, to determine the status of a mortgagor meeting all other criteria for approval to participate in the pre-foreclosure sale procedure, or to determine if a mortgagor meets the criteria for approval of the mortgagee’s acceptance of a deed in lieu of foreclosure.
(t) The administrative fee as authorized by the Secretary and payable to the mortgagee for its role in facilitating a successful pre-foreclosure sale, said fee not to be subject to the payment of debenture interest thereon.
§ 203.402a Reimbursement for uncollected interest.
The mortgagee shall be entitled to receive an allowance in the insurance settlement for unpaid mortgage interest if the mortgagor fails to meet the requirements of a forbearance agreement entered into pursuant to § 203.614 and this failure continues for a period of 60 days. The interest allowance shall be computed to:
(a) The earliest of the applicable following dates, except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section:
(1) The date of the initiation of foreclosure;
(2) The date of the acquisition of the property by the mortgagee by means other than foreclosure;
(3) The date the property was acquired by the Commissioner under a direct conveyance from the mortgagor;
(4) Ninety days following the date the mortgagor fails to meet the requirements of the forbearance agreement, or such other date as the Commissioner may approve in writing prior to the expiration of the 90-day period; or
(5) The date the mortgagee sends the mortgagor notice of eligibility to participate in the Pre-Foreclosure Sale procedure; or
(b) The date foreclosure is initiated or a deed in lieu is obtained, or the date such actions were required by § 203.355(c), whichever is earlier, if the commencement of foreclosure within the time limits described in § 203.355(a), (b), (g), or (h) is precluded by:
(1) The laws of the State in which the mortgaged property is located; or
(2) Federal bankruptcy law.
§ 203.403 Items deducted from payment – conveyed and non-conveyed properties.
There shall be deducted from the total of the added items in §§ 203.401 and 203.402 the following cash items:
(a) All amounts received by the mortgagee on account of the mortgage after the institution of foreclosure proceedings or the acquisition of the property by direct conveyance or otherwise after default.
(b) All amounts received by the mortgagee from any source relating to the property on account of rent or other income after deducting reasonable expenses incurred in handling the property.
(c) All cash retained by the mortgagee including amounts held or deposited for the account of the mortgagor or to which it is entitled under the mortgage transaction that have not been applied in reduction of the principal mortgage indebtedness.
(d) With regard to claims filed pursuant to successful pre-foreclosure sales, all amounts received by the mortgagee relating to the sale of the property.
§ 203.404 Amount of payment – assigned mortgages.
Upon an acceptable assignment of a mortgage, the Commissioner shall pay to the mortgagee the unpaid principal balance of the loan at the time of assignment and an amount determined by:
(a) Adding the following items:
(1) Any accrued and unpaid mortgage interest.
(2) Any advances made under the mortgage and approved by the Commissioner.
(3) Reimbursement for such costs and attorney’s fees as HUD finds were properly incurred in connection with the defaulted mortgage and its modification and assignment to HUD.
(4) For mortgages endorsed for insurance on or before January 23, 2004, an amount equivalent to the debenture interest that would have been earned on the portion of the insurance benefits paid in cash, as of the date such payment is made, and for mortgages endorsed for insurance after January 23, 2004, debenture interest at the rate specified in § 203.405(b), from the date specified in § 203.410 to the date of claim payment on the portion of the insurance benefits paid in cash, except that when the mortgagee fails to meet any one of the requirements of §§ 203.350(e), 203.351, and 203.353 of this chapter within the specified time and in a manner satisfactory to the Commissioner (or within such further time as the Commissioner may approve in writing), the interest allowance in such cash payment shall be computed only to the date on which the particular required action should have been taken or to which it was extended.
(5) An administrative fee to the mortgagee for modifying the mortgage.
(6) A fee for servicing the mortgage assigned to HUD, if HUD requires such servicing.
(b) Deducting all cash retained by the mortgagee, including amounts held or deposited for the account of the mortgagor or to which it is entitled under the mortgage transaction that have not been applied in reduction of the principal mortgage indebtedness.
(c) The mortgagee may not file for any additional payments of its mortgage insurance claim after six months from final payment by the Commissioner. For the purpose of this section, the term final payment shall mean the payment which is made by the Commissioner based upon the submission by the mortgagee of all required documents and information pursuant to § 203.351 of this part.
§ 203.405 Debenture interest rate.
(a) Debentures shall bear interest from the date of issue, payable semiannually on the first day of January and the first day of July of each year at the rate in effect as of the day the commitment was issued, or as of the date the mortgage was endorsed for insurance, whichever rate is higher. For applications involving mortgages originated under the single family Direct Endorsement program, debentures shall bear interest from the date of issue, payable semiannually on the first day of January and on the first day of July of each year at the rate in effect as of the date the mortgage was endorsed for insurance;
(b) For mortgages endorsed for insurance after January 23, 2004, if an insurance claim is paid in cash, the debenture interest rate for purposes of calculating such a claim shall be the monthly average yield, for the month in which the default on the mortgage occurred, on United States Treasury Securities adjusted to a constant maturity of 10 years.
§ 203.406 Maturity of debentures.
Debentures shall mature 20 years from the date of issue.
§ 203.407 Registration of debentures.
Debentures shall be registered as to principal and interest.
§ 203.408 Form and amounts of debentures.
Debentures issued under this part shall be in such form and amounts; and shall be subject to such term and conditions; and shall include such provisions for redemption, if any, as may be prescribed by the Secretary, with the approval of the Secretary of the Treasury; and may be in book entry or certificated registered form, or such other form as the Secretary by regulation may prescribe.
§ 203.409 Redemption of debentures.
Debentures shall, at the option of the Commissioner and with the approval of the Secretary of the Treasury, be redeemable at par plus accrued interest on any semiannual interest payment date on three months’ notice of redemption given in such manner as the Commissioner shall prescribe. The debenture interest on the debentures called for redemption shall cease on the semiannual interest payment date designated in the call notice. The Commissioner may include with the notice of redemption an offer to purchase the debentures at par plus accrued interest at any time during the period between the notice of redemption and the redemption date. If the debentures are purchased by the Commissioner after such call and prior to the named redemption date, the debenture interest shall cease on the date of purchase.
§ 203.410 Issue date of debentures.
(a) Conveyed properties, claims without conveyance, pre-foreclosure sales – Where the property is conveyed to the Commissioner, or the mortgagee or other party acquires title to the property under the claim without conveyance procedure or the pre-foreclosure sale procedure, debenture shall be dated:
(1) If issued prior to September 2, 1964, or issued on or after such date and a certificate of claim is also issued, as of one of the dates as follows:
(i) The foreclosure proceedings were instituted;
(ii) The property was otherwise acquired by the mortgagee after default;
(iii) The property was acquired by the Commissioner, if directly conveyed to the Commissioner from the mortgagor; or
(iv) The property was acquired after default by a third party under the pre-foreclosure sale procedure.
(2) If issued on or after September 2, 1964, and a certificate of claim is not issued, as of the date of default as defined in this part.
(3) As of the day after the date to which mortgage interest is computed as specified in § 203.402a, if the insurance settlement includes an allowance for uncollected interest in connection with a special forbearance.
(b) Assigned mortgages. Where the mortgage is assigned to the Commissioner, debentures shall be dated as of the date of the assignment.
(c) Notwithstanding paragraph (a) of this section, in connection with conveyed properties and claims without conveyance, debentures issued as reimbursement for expenditures made by a mortgagee after the date of default shall be dated as of the date the expenditure is actually made by the mortgagee.
§ 203.411 Cash adjustment.
Any difference of less than $50 between the amount of debentures to be issued to the mortgagee and the total amount of the mortgagee’s claim, as approved by the Commissioner, may be adjusted by the issuance of a check in payment thereof.
§ 203.412 Payment for foreclosure alternative actions.
Notwithstanding the conveyance, sale, or assignment requirements for payment of a claim elsewhere in this part, HUD may pay the mortgagee, in accordance with procedures prescribed by HUD, for the following foreclosure alternative actions, in such amounts as HUD determines:
(a) Assumptions under § 203.512;
(b) Special forbearance under §§ 203.471 and 203.614;
(c) Recasting or modification of defaulted mortgages under § 203.616, where the mortgagee is not reimbursed under § 203.405(a);
(d) Refinancing under § 203.43(c).
§ 203.413 [Reserved]
§ 203.414 Amount of payment – partial claims.
(a) Claim amount. Where a claim for partial insurance benefits is filed in accordance with § 203.371, the amount of the insurance benefits shall consist of the arrearage not to exceed an amount equivalent to 12 monthly mortgage payments, and any costs prescribed by HUD related to the default.
(b) Servicing fee. The claim may also include a payment for activities, such as servicing the subordinate mortgage, which HUD may require.
Certificate of Claim
§ 203.415 Delivery of certificate of claim.
(a) If the mortgage was accepted for insurance pursuant to a commitment issued prior to September 2, 1964, the mortgagee may, by filing a written request with the application for debentures, receive in addition to the debentures and the cash adjustment check, a certificate of claim issued in accordance with section 204(e) of the Act. This certificate shall become payable (if at all) as prescribed in section 204(f) of the Act.
(b) If the mortgage was accepted for insurance pursuant to a commitment issued on or after September 2, 1964, or under the Direct Endorsement, Lender Insurance, or Coinsurance programs, no certificate of claim will be issued.
§ 203.416 Amount and items of certificate of claim.
The certificate shall be for an amount which the Commissioner determines to be sufficient to pay all amounts due under the mortgage and not covered by the amount of debentures and cash adjustment check. The certificate shall include a reasonable amount for necessary expenses incurred by the mortgagee in connection with the foreclosure proceedings or the acquisition of the mortgaged property otherwise and the conveyance thereof to the Commissioner, including reasonable attorneys’ fees, unpaid interest, and cost of repairs to the property made by the mortgagee to remedy the waste.
§ 203.417 Rate of interest of certificate of claim.
Each certificate of claim shall provide that there shall accrue to the holder thereof with respect to the face amount of such certificate, an increment at the rate of 3 percent per annum.
§ 203.420 Nature of Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund.
The Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund shall consist of the General Surplus Account and the Participating Reserve Account.
§ 203.421 Allocation of Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund income or loss.
For any semiannual period in which Mutual Mortgage Insurance operations shall result in a net income, or loss, the Commissioner shall allocate, after taking into account the actuarial status of the entire Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund, such net income or such loss to the General Surplus Account and/or to the Participating Reserve Account as the Commissioner may determine to be in accord with sound actuarial and accounting practice. In determining net income or loss, the Commissioner shall take into consideration all income received from fees, premiums and earnings on investments of the fund, operating expenses and provision for losses to the fund.
§ 203.422 Right and liability under Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund.
No mortgagor or mortgagee shall have any vested right in a credit balance in either the General Surplus Account or the Participating Reserve Account. No mortgagor or mortgagee shall be subject to any liability arising under the mutuality of the Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund.
(a) The Commissioner may provide for the distribution to the mortgagor of a share of the participating reserve account if the contract of insurance is terminated by:
(1) Conveyance to one other than the Commissioner and a claim for the insurance benefits is not presented by the mortgage (§ 203.315), provided, however, in the case of a mortgage insured pursuant to an application for a conditional commitment received on or after May 19, 1988, (or, as appropriate, an application for mortgage insurance endorsement under the Single Family Direct Endorsement program, as provided in § 203.255, where the property appraisal report is signed by the mortgagee’s underwriter on or after May 19, 1988, no distribution shall be made if the mortgagee forecloses the mortgage or accepts a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure;
(2) Prepayment of the mortgage (§ 203.316); or
(3) Voluntary agreement of the mortgagor and mortgagees (§ 203.317).
(b) The Commissioner shall determine the amount of the distributive share by multiplying the amount of the premium or premiums paid by the applicable distributive share percentage for mortgages insured in the year the mortgage was endorsed for insurance. The Commissioner shall determine the applicable distributive share percentage in an equitable manner and in accordance with sound financial and actuarial practice, taking into account the cumulative actual financial and actuarial experiences through the end of the most recent calendar year.
In no event shall a distributive share of the Participating Reserve Account exceed the aggregate scheduled annual premiums of the mortgagor to the year of termination of the insurance.
§ 203.425 Finality of determination.
The determination of the Commissioner as to the amount to be paid to any mortgagor from the Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund shall be final and conclusive.
§ 203.426 Inapplicability to housing in older declining urban areas.
The provisions of §§ 203.420 through 203.425 shall not apply to mortgages financing housing in declining urban areas meeting the requirements of § 203.43a.
The Commissioner shall not distribute any distributive share to an eligible mortgagor under § 203.423 beginning on the date which is six years after the date the Commissioner first transmitted written notification of eligibility to the last known address of the mortgagor, unless the mortgagor has applied in accordance with procedures prescribed by the Commissioner for payment of the share within the six-year period. The Commissioner shall transfer any amounts no longer eligible for distribution under this section from the Participating Reserve Account to the General Surplus Account.
Sale, Assignment and Pledge of Insured Mortgage
§ 203.430 Sale of interests in insured mortgages.
No mortgagee may sell or otherwise dispose of any insured mortgage, or group of insured mortgages, or any partial interest in such mortgage or mortgages by means of any agreement, arrangement or device except pursuant to this subpart.
§ 203.431 Sale of insured mortgage to approved mortgagee.
An insured mortgage may be sold to another approved mortgagee. The seller shall notify HUD of the sale within 15 calendar days, on a form prescribed by HUD and acknowledged by the buyer.
§ 203.432 Effect of sale of insured mortgage.
When an insured mortgage is sold to another approved mortgagee, the buyer shall thereupon succeed to all the rights and become bound by all the obligations of the seller under the contract of insurance and the seller shall be released from its obligations under the contract, provided that the seller shall not be relieved of its obligation to pay mortgage insurance premiums until the notice required by § 203.431 is received by HUD.
§ 203.433 Assignments, pledges and transfers by approved mortgagee.
(a) An assignment, pledge, or transfer of an insured mortgage or group of insured mortgages, not constituting a final sale, may be made by an approved mortgagee to another approved mortgagee provided the following requirements are met:
(1) The assignor, pledgor or transferor shall remain the mortgagee of record.
(2) The Commissioner shall have no obligation to recognize or deal with any party other than the mortgagee of record with respect to the rights, benefits and obligations of the mortgagee under the contract of insurance.
(b) An assignment or transfer of an insured mortgage or group of insured mortgages may be made by an approved mortgagee to other than an approved mortgagee provided the requirements under paragraphs (a)(1) and (2) of this section are met and the following additional requirements are met:
(1) The assignee or transferee shall be a corporation, trust or organization (including but not limited to any pension trust or profit-sharing plan) which certifies to the approved mortgagee that:
(i) It has assets of $100,000 or more; and
(ii) It has lawful authority to hold an insured mortgage or group of insured mortgages.
(2) The assignment or transfer shall be made pursuant to an agreement under which the transferor or assignor is obligated to take one of the following alternate courses of action within 1 year from the date of the assignment or within such additional period of time as may be approved by the Commissioner:
(i) The transferor or assignor shall repurchase and accept a reassignment of such mortgage or group of mortgages.
(ii) The transferor or assignor shall obtain a sale and transfer of such mortgage or group of mortgages to an approved mortgagee.
(c) Notice to or approval of the Commissioner is not required in connection with assignments, pledges or transfers pursuant to this section.
§ 203.434 Declaration of trust.
A sale of a beneficial interest in a group of insured mortgages, where the interest to be acquired is related to all of the mortgages as an entirety, rather than an interest in a specific mortgage shall be made only pursuant to a declaration of trust, which has been approved by the Commissioner prior to any such sale.
§ 203.435 Transfers of partial interests.
A partial interest in an insured mortgage may be transferred under a participation agreement without obtaining the approval of the Commissioner, if the following conditions are met:
(a) Principal mortgagee. The insured mortgage shall be held by an approved mortgagee which, for the purposes of this section, shall be referred to as the principal mortgagee.
(b) Interest of principal mortgagee. The principal mortgagee shall retain and hold for its own account a financial interest in the insured mortgage.
(c) Qualification for holding partial interest. A partial interest in an insured mortgage shall be issued to and held only by:
(1) A mortgagee approved by the Commissioner; or
(2) A corporation, trust or organization (including, but not limited to any pension fund, pension trust, or profit-sharing plan) which certifies to the principal mortgagee that:
(i) It has assets of $100,000 or more; and
(ii) It has lawful authority to acquire a partial interest in an insured mortgage.
(d) Participation agreement provisions. The participation agreement shall include provisions that:
(1) The principal mortgagee shall retain title to the mortgage and remain the mortgagee of record under the contract of mortgage insurance.
(2) The Commissioner shall have no obligation to recognize or deal with anyone other than the principal mortgagee with respect to the rights, benefits and obligations of the mortgagee under the contract of insurance.
(3) The mortgage documents shall remain in the custody of the principal mortgagee.
(4) The responsibility for servicing the insured mortgages shall remain with the principal mortgagee.
Graduated Payment Mortgages
§ 203.436 Claim procedure – graduated payment mortgages.
All of the provisions of this subpart are applicable to mortgages insured under the provisions of § 203.45 except as provided in this section.
(a) Beginning of Amortization means the date one month prior to the date of the first monthly payment to principal or interest.
(b) The phrases unpaid principal balance of the loan or principal of the mortgage which was unpaid as used in this subpart, shall be construed to refer to the outstanding mortgage amount as increased by any accrued mortgage interest which was unpaid pursuant to a financing plan approved by the Secretary.
Cooperative Unit Mortgages
§ 203.437 Mortgages involving a dwelling unit in a cooperative housing development.
(a) The provisions of §§ 203.251(d), 203.366 and 203.440 through 203.495 shall not apply to mortgages insured pursuant to section 203(n) of the National Housing Act.
(b) References in this subpart to the term deed and deed in lieu of foreclosure, or the word property when found in the phrases conveyance of property, acquisition of property, or other phrases indicating transfer of property, shall be construed to mean the assignment of the Corporate Certificate and Occupancy Certificate. However, when the use of such terms, as interpreted in light of section 203(n) of the National Housing Act, clearly indicates that reference to the dwelling unit is intended, such terms shall mean the dwelling unit identified in the Occupancy Certificate.
(c) In addition to the requirements of § 203.365, the mortgagee shall forward to the Secretary within 45 days after the transfer of the Corporate Certificate:
(1) A statement certified by the officer of the corporation charged with maintenance of the Corporate Certificate Transfer Book that such book currently shows that the Secretary is the owner of the Corporate Certificate; and,
(2) The Occupancy Certificate in the name of the Secretary.
(d) The mortgagee shall tender to the Secretary good and marketable title to the Corporate Certificate and the exclusive right of permanent possession of the dwelling unit.
(e) In lieu of the types of title evidence provided in § 203.385, the Secretary will accept a legal opinion signed by an attorney at law experienced in the examination of titles that the Secretary has good and marketable title to the Corporate Certificate and the exclusive right of possession of the dwelling unit.
(f) The Secretary may accept assignment of mortgages insured under this part if it is determined by the Secretary that it is in the Department’s interest to do so provided that the blanket mortgage is in default and the holder of such mortgage has announced an intention to foreclose.
Mortgages on Property Located on Indian Land
§ 203.438 Mortgages on Indian land insured pursuant to section 248 of the National Housing Act.
(a) Exemptions. The provisions of § 203.366 shall not apply to mortgages insured pursuant to section 248 of the National Housing Act.
(b) Claim procedure. In addition to other actions which the mortgagee may take pursuant to this subpart in order to receive insurance benefits, a mortgagee shall be entitled to receive such benefits on a mortgage insured under § 203.43h when (1) the mortgagor is more than 90 days in default; (2) the mortgagee has submitted appropriate documentation to the Secretary in accordance with § 203.350(b); and (3) the Secretary has approved the assignment of the mortgage.
(c) Foreclosure by HUD. HUD may initiate foreclosure proceedings with respect to any mortgage acquired under this section in a tribal court, a court of competent jurisdiction or Federal district court. If the mortgagor remains on the property following foreclosure, HUD may seek an eviction order from the court hearing the foreclosure action.
Mortgages on Property Located on Hawaiian Home Lands
§ 203.439 Mortgages on Hawaiian home lands insured pursuant to section 247 of the National Housing Act.
(a) Exemptions. The provisions of §§ 203.351(a)(8), 203.353(a), and 203.368, do not apply to mortgages insured pursuant to section 247 of the National Housing Act.
(b) Claim procedure. Where the mortgage is 180 days or more in default, the mortgagee may assign the mortgage to the Secretary and file its claim for insurance benefits in accordance with the provisions of this subpart. No claim on an insured mortgage will be paid other than through assignment of the mortgage.
(c) Notice of delinquency. Once each month on a day prescribed by HUD, the mortgagee shall notify the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands of all mortgages insured pursuant to section 247 of the National Housing Act on leaseholds of Hawaiian home lands that are delinquent on the last day of the month, or that were reported as delinquent the previous month. The notice is in addition to the requirement in §§ 203.330 and 203.331.
Mortgages on Property in Allegany Reservation of Seneca Indians
(a) Applicability. This section shall apply to mortgages authorized by section 203(q) of the National Housing Act (§ 203.43j of this part) only when the date of default occurs before the mortgagor and the lessor execute a lease renewal or a new lease either with a term of not less than five years beyond the maturity date of the mortgage, or with a term established by an arbitration award.
(b) Claims. In addition to other actions which the mortgagee may take pursuant to this subpart in order to receive insurance benefits, a mortgagee shall be entitled to receive such benefits when the Secretary has agreed to accept assignment of a mortgage in accordance with § 203.350(d) and the mortgagee has complied with §§ 203.351 and 203.353.
(c) Exceptions. Notwithstanding § 203.366, title to a leasehold estate conveyed to the Commissioner is not required to be marketable as to the term of the lease, provided that the mortgagee has taken any actions required by the Secretary to attempt to obtain a long-term renewal of the lease. Title evidence will be required in a form satisfactory to the Commissioner (see § 203.385) unless the Commissioner agrees to accept title to a leasehold estate without title evidence.
Rehabilitation Loans
§ 203.440 Definitions.
All of the definitions contained in § 203.50 of this subchapter shall apply to §§ 203.440 et seq. In addition the following terms shall have the meaning indicated:
(a) Insured loan means a loan which has been insured as evidenced by the issuance of an Insurance Certificate or by the endorsement of the note for insurance by the Commissioner.
(b) Contract of insurance means the agreement evidenced by the issuance of an Insurance Certificate or by the endorsement of the Commissioner upon the note given in connection with an insured loan, incorporating by reference the regulations in §§ 203.440 et seq. and the applicable provisions of the Act.
(c) Insurance premium means the loan insurance premium paid by the financial institution to the Commissioner in consideration of the contract of insurance.
(d) Beginning of amortization means the date one month prior to the date of the first monthly payment to principal and interest.
(e) Maturity means the date on which the loan indebtedness would be extinguished if paid in accordance with periodic payments provided for in the original note and security instrument.
(f) Debentures means registered, transferable securities in book entry or certificated form which are valid and binding obligations, unconditionally guaranteed as to principal and interest by the United States.
§ 203.441 Insurance of loan.
Under compliance with the commitment, or as provided in § 203.255(b) with respect to mortgages processed under the Direct Endorsement program, the Commissioner shall insure the loan evidencing the insurance by the issuance of an insurance certificate which will identify the regulations under which the loan is insured and the date of insurance.
§ 203.442 Contract created by Insurance Certificate or by endorsement.
The loan is insured from the date of the issuance of an Insurance Certificate or from the date of the endorsement of the note. The Commissioner and the lender shall thereafter be bound by the Act and the regulations in §§ 203.440 et seq. with the same force and to the same extent as if a separate contract had been executed relating to the insured loan.
All of the provisions of §§ 203.260 through 203.269
§ 203.457 Voluntary termination of contract.
Upon request by the borrower and lender the Commissioner may terminate the insurance contract on the loan. The lender shall cancel the insurance endorsement on the insurance certificate or note upon receipt of notice from the Commissioner that the contract of insurance is terminated.
§ 203.458 Termination by prepayment of loan.
The contract of insurance shall be terminated if the loan is paid in full prior to its maturity.
§ 203.459 Notice of termination by lender.
No contract of insurance shall be terminated until the lender has given written notice thereof to the Commissioner within 15 calendar days from the occurrence of one of the approved methods of termination set forth in this subpart.
No contract of insurance shall be terminated until the lender has paid to the Commissioner the pro rata portion of the current annual insurance premium.
§ 203.463 Notice and date of termination by Commissioner.
The Commissioner shall notify the lender that the contract of insurance has been terminated and the effective termination. The termination date shall be the last day of the month in which:
(a) The loan was prepaid; or
(b) A voluntary termination request is received by the Commissioner, or
(c) The contract of insurance is otherwise terminated with the consent of the Commissioner.
§ 203.464 Effect of termination.
Upon termination of the contract of insurance, the obligation to pay any subsequent insurance premium shall cease and all rights of the borrower and lender shall be terminated.
§ 203.466 Definition of delinquency and requirement for notice of delinquency to HUD.
(a) A mortgage account is delinquent any time a payment is due and not paid.
(b) Once each month on a day prescribed by HUD, the mortgagee shall report to HUD all mortgages insured under this part that were delinquent on the last day of the month, or that were reported as delinquent the previous month. The report shall be made in a manner prescribed by HUD.
§ 203.467 Definition of default, date of default, and requirement of notice of default to HUD.
(a) Default. If the mortgagor fails to make any payment or to perform any other obligation under the mortgage, and such failure continues for a period of 30 days, the mortgage shall be considered in default for the purposes of this subpart.
(b) Date of default. For the purposes of this subpart, the date of default shall be considered as 30 days after:
(1) The first uncorrected failure to perform any obligation under the mortgage; or
(2) The first failure to make a monthly payment that subsequent payments by the borrower are insufficient to cover when applied to the overdue monthly payments in the order in which they became due.
(c) Notice of default. Once each month, on a day prescribed by HUD, the mortgagee shall report to HUD all mortgages that were in default on the last day of the month, or that were reported as in default the previous month. The report shall be made on a form prescribed by HUD.
(d) Number of days in month. For the purposes of this section, each month shall be considered to have 30 days.
§ 203.468 [Reserved]
§ 203.469 Reinstatement of defaulted loan.
If after default and prior to assignment by the lender of the loan to the Commissioner, the borrower shall pay to the lender all monthly payments in default, written notice shall be given to the Commissioner within 30 days and the insurance shall continue as if such default had not occurred.
§ 203.471 Special forbearance.
If the mortgagee finds that a default is due to circumstances beyond the mortgagor’s control, as defined by the Secretary, the mortgagee may grant special forbearance relief to the mortgagor in accordance with the conditions prescribed by the Secretary.
§ 203.472 Relief for borrower in military service.
If the borrower is a person in military service, as defined in the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Act of 1940, the lender may, by written agreement with the borrower, postpone for the period of military service, and 3 months thereafter, any part of the monthly payment, which represents amortization of principal. The agreement shall contain a provision for the resumption of monthly payments thereafter in amounts which will completely amortize the obligation within its original maturity. The agreement shall in no way affect the amount of the annual insurance premium which shall continue to be calculated in accordance with the original amortization provisions of the loan.
§ 203.473 Claim procedure.
(a) A claim for insurance benefits on a loan secured by a first mortgage shall be made, and insurance benefits shall be paid, as provided in §§ 203.350 through 203.414.
(b) A claim for insurance benefits on a loan secured by other than a first mortgage shall be made, and insurance benefits shall be paid, as provided in §§ 203.474 through 203.478. However, the lender may not, except with the approval of the Commissioner, proceed against the security and also make claim under the contract of insurance, but shall elect which method it desires to pursue.
§ 203.474 Maximum claim period.
A claim for insurance benefits on a loan secured by other than a first mortgage shall be filed within one year from the date of default, or within such additional period of time as may be approved by the Commissioner.
§ 203.476 Claim application and items to be filed.
The claim for reimbursement on a loan secured by other than a first mortgage shall be made upon an application form prescribed by the Commissioner. The application shall be accompanied by:
(a) The fiscal data pertaining to the loan transaction as required by the fiscal data form;
(b) Receipts covering all disbursements as required by the fiscal data form;
(c) The original note and the security held, assigned to the Commissioner without recourse of warranty, except that no act or omission of the lender shall have impaired the validity and priority of such security;
(d) Any hazard insurance policies held on property serving as security for the loan, together with a copy of the lender’s notification to the carrier authorizing the amendment of the loss payable clause substituting the Commissioner as the holder of the security;
(e) The assignment to the Commissioner of all rights and interests arising under the loan, and all claims of the lender against the borrower or others arising out of the loan transaction;
(f) Any title evidence held by the lender;
(g) All property of the borrower held by the lender or to which it is entitled and, if the Commissioner elects to make payments in debentures, all cash held by the lender or to which it is entitled, including deposits made for the account of the borrower and which have not been applied in reduction of the principal loan indebtedness;
(h) All records, ledger cards, documents, books, papers and accounts relating to the loan transaction;
(i) Any additional information or data which the Commissioner may require.
§ 203.477 Certificate by lender when loan assigned.
At the time of the assignment of the loan, the lender shall certify to the Commissioner that:
(a) The amount stated in the instrument of assignment is actually due and owing on the loan;
(b) There are no offsets of counterclaims thereto, and the financial institution has a good right to assign.
(c) The mortgage transaction did not involve a first mortgage and the mortgage is prior to all mechanics’ and materialmen’s liens filed of record, regardless of when such liens attach, and prior to all liens and encumbrances other than a first mortgage, or defects which may arise except such liens or other matters as may have been approved by the Commissioner.
§ 203.478 Payment of insurance benefits.
(a) Claim computation, items included. Upon acceptable assignment of the note and security instruments, the Commissioner shall pay the lender an amount equal to the unpaid principal balance of the loan, plus:
(1) Any accrued interest due as of the date of execution of the assignment of the loan to the Commissioner.
(2) Any advances made previously under the provisions of the loan instrument and approved by the Commissioner.
(3) Reimbursement for such reasonable collection costs, court costs and attorney’s fees as may be approved by the Commissioner.
(4) Reimbursement for premiums paid on any hazard insurance policies held on the property.
(5)(i) If payment is made in cash on a mortgage endorsed for insurance on or before January 23, 2004, an amount equivalent to the debenture interest that would have been earned, as of the date insurance settlement occurs, except that where the lender fails to meet any one of the requirements of §§ 203.476 and 203.477 and such failure continues for more than 30 days (or such further time as the Commissioner may approve in writing), the debenture interest shall be computed for 30 days or the extended period;
(ii) If payment is made in cash on a mortgage endorsed for insurance after January 23, 2004, debenture interest at the rate specified in § 203.479 from the date specified in § 203.486 to the date insurance settlement occurs, except that where the lender fails to meet any one of the requirements of §§ 203.476 and 203.477 and such failure continues for more than 30 days (or such further time as the Commissioner may approve in writing), the debenture interest shall be computed for 30 days or the extended period.
(b) Claim computation, items deducted. If the lender is to receive cash, there shall be deducted from the total of the added items in paragraph (a) of this section any cash held by the lender or to which it is entitled including deposits made for the account of the borrower and which have not been applied in reduction of the principal loan indebtedness.
(c) Method of payment. Payment of an insurance claim shall be made in cash, in debentures, or in a combination of both, as determined by the Commissioner either at, or prior to, the time of payment.
(d) Special provision – payment in debentures. All of the provisions of §§ 203.479 through 203.487 of this subpart shall be applicable in connection with the payment in debentures of insurance benefits under this subpart.
§ 203.479 Debenture interest rate.
(a) Debentures shall bear interest from the date of issue, payable semiannually on the first day of January and on the first day of July every year at the rate in effect as of the date the commitment was issued, or as of the date the loan was endorsed for insurance, whichever rate is higher. The applicable rates of interest will be published twice each year as a notice in the
(b) For mortgages endorsed for insurance after January 23, 2004, if an insurance claim is paid in cash, the debenture interest rate for purposes of calculating such a claim shall be the monthly average yield, for the month in which the default on the mortgage occurred, on United States Treasury Securities adjusted to a constant maturity of 10 years.
§ 203.481 Maturity of debentures.
Debentures shall mature 10 years from the date of issue.
§ 203.482 Registration of debentures.
Debentures shall be registered as to principal and interest.
§ 203.483 Forms and amounts of debentures.
Debentures issued under this part shall be in such form and amounts; and shall be subject to such terms and conditions; and shall include such provisions for redemption, if any, as may be prescribed by the Secretary, with the approval of the Secretary of the Treasury; and may be in book entry or certificated registered form, or such other form as the Secretary by regulation may prescribe.
§ 203.484 Redemption of debentures.
Debentures shall, at the option of the Commissioner and with the approval of the Secretary of the Treasury, be redeemable at par plus accrued interest on any semiannual interest payment date on 3 months’ notice of redemption given in such manner as the Commissioner shall prescribe. The debenture interest on the debentures called for redemption shall cease on the semiannual interest payment date designated in the call notice. The Commissioner may include with the notice of redemption an offer to purchase the debentures at par plus accrued interest at any time during the period between the notice of redemption and the redemption date. If the debentures are purchased by the Commissioner after such call and prior to the named redemption date, the debenture interest shall cease on the date of purchase.
§ 203.486 Issue date of debentures.
The debentures shall be issued as of the date of the execution of the assignment of the loan in accordance with the requirements of § 203.476(c).
§ 203.487 Cash adjustment.
Any difference of less than $50 between the amount of debentures to be issued to the lender and the total amount of the lender’s claim, as approved by the Commissioner, may be adjusted by the issuance of a check in payment thereof.
§ 203.488 Sale of interests in insured loans.
No lender may sell or otherwise dispose of any insured loan or group of insured loans, or any partial interest in such loan or loans by means of any agreement, arrangement or device except pursuant to this subpart.
§ 203.489 Sale of insured loan to approved lender.
An insured loan may be sold to another approved lender. The seller shall notify HUD of the sale within 15 calendar days, on a form prescribed by HUD and acknowledged by the buyer.
§ 203.491 Effect of sale of insured loan.
When an insured loan is sold to another approved lender, the buyer shall thereupon succeed to all the rights and become bound by all the obligations of the seller under the contract of insurance and the seller shall be released from its obligations under the contract, provided that the seller shall not be relieved of its obligation to pay insurance premiums until the notice required by § 203.489 is received by HUD.
§ 203.492 Assignments, pledges and transfers by approved lender.
(a) An assignment, pledge or transfer of an insured loan or group of insured loans, not constituting a final sale, may be made by an approved lender to another approved lender provided the following requirements are met:
(1) The assignor, pledgor or transferor shall remain the lender of record.
(2) The Commissioner shall have no obligation to recognize or deal with any party other than the lender of record with respect to the rights, benefits and obligations of the lender under the contract of insurance.
(b) An assignment or transfer of an insured loan or group of insured loans may be made by an approved lender to other than an approved lender provided the requirements under paragraphs (a) (1) and (2) of this section are met and the following additional requirements are met:
(1) The assignee or transferee shall be a corporation, trust or organization (including but not limited to any pension trust or profit-sharing plan) which certifies to the approved lender that:
(i) It has assets of $100,000 or more; and
(ii) It has lawful authority to hold an insured loan or group of insured loans.
(2) The assignment or transfer shall be made pursuant to an agreement under which the transferor or assignor is obligated to take one of the following alternate courses of action within one year from the date of the assignment or within such additional period of time as may be approved by the Commissioner:
(i) The transferor or assignor shall repurchase and accept a reassignment of such loan or group of loans.
(ii) The transferor or assignor shall obtain a sale and transfer of such loan or group of loans to an approved lender.
(c) Notice to or approval of the Commissioner is not required in connection with assignments, pledges or transfers pursuant to this section.
§ 203.493 Declaration of trust.
A sale of a beneficial interest in a group of insured loans, where the interest to be acquired is related to all of the loans as an entirety, rather than an interest in a specific loan, shall be made only pursuant to a declaration of trust, which has been approved by the Commissioner prior to any such sale.
§ 203.495 Transfers of partial interests.
A partial interest in an insured loan may be transferred under a participation agreement without obtaining the approval of the Commissioner, if the following conditions are met:
(a) Principal mortgagee. The insured loan shall be held by an approved lender which, for the purposes of this section, shall be referred to as the principal lender.
(b) Interest of principal lender. The principal lender shall retain and hold for its own account a financial interest in the insured loan.
(c) Qualification for holding partial interest. A partial interest in an insured loan shall be issued to and held only by:
(1) A lender approved by the Commissioner; or
(2) A corporation, trust or organization (including, but not limited to any pension fund, pension trust, or profit-sharing plan) which certifies to the principal lender that:
(i) It has assets of $100,000 or more; and
(ii) It has lawful authority to acquire a partial interest in an insured loan.
(d) Participation agreement provisions. The participation agreement shall include provisions that:
(1) The principal lender shall retain title to the loan and remain the lender of record under the contract of loan insurance.
(2) The Commissioner shall have no obligation to recognize or deal with anyone other than the principal lender with respect to the rights, benefits, and obligations of the lender under the contract of insurance.
(3) The loan documents shall remain in the custody of the principal lender.
(4) The responsibility for servicing the insured loans shall remain with the principal lender.
Extension of Time
§ 203.496 Actions to be taken by mortgagee or lender.
With respect to any action required by the mortgagee or lender within a period of time prescribed by this subpart the Commissioner may extend such period.
Amendments
§ 203.499 Effect of amendments.
The regulations in this subpart may be amended by the Secretary at any time and from time to time, in whole or in part, but such amendment will not adversely affect the interests of a mortgagee under the contract of insurance on any mortgage or loan already insured, and will not adversely affect the interest of a mortgagee on any mortgage or loan to be insured for which either the Direct Endorsement or Lender Insurance mortgagee has approved the mortgagor and all terms and conditions of the mortgage or loan, or the Secretary has issued a firm commitment. In addition, such amendment will not adversely affect the eligibility of specific property if such property is covered by a conditional commitment issued by the Secretary, a certificate of reasonable value issued by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, or an appraisal report approved by a Direct Endorsement or Lender Insurance underwriter.
Subpart C – Servicing Responsibilities
General Requirements
§ 203.500 Mortgage servicing generally.
This subpart identifies servicing practices of lending institutions that HUD considers acceptable for mortgages insured by HUD. Failure to comply with this subpart shall not be a basis for denial of insurance benefits, but failure to comply will be cause for imposition of a civil money penalty, including a penalty under § 30.35(c)(2), or withdrawal of HUD’s approval of a mortgagee. It is the intent of the Department that no mortgagee shall commence foreclosure or acquire title to a property until the requirements of this subpart have been followed.
§ 203.501 Loss mitigation.
Mortgagees must consider the comparative effects of their elective servicing actions, and must take those appropriate actions which can reasonably be expected to generate the smallest financial loss to the Department. Such actions include, but are not limited to, deeds in lieu of foreclosure under § 203.357, pre-foreclosure sales under § 203.370, partial claims under § 203.414, assumptions under § 203.512, special forbearance under §§ 203.471 and 203.614, and recasting of mortgages under § 203.616. HUD may prescribe conditions and requirements for the appropriate use of these loss mitigation actions, concerning such matters as owner-occupancy, extent of previous defaults, prior use of loss mitigation, and evaluation of the mortgagor’s income, credit and property.
§ 203.502 Responsibility for servicing.
(a) After January 10, 1994, servicing of insured mortgages must be performed by a mortgagee that is approved by HUD to service insured mortgages. The servicer must fully discharge the servicing responsibilities of the mortgagee as outlined in this part. The mortgagee shall remain fully responsible to the Secretary for proper servicing, and the actions of its servicer shall be considered to be the actions of the mortgagee. The servicer also shall be fully responsible to the Secretary for its actions as a servicer.
(b) Whenever servicing of any mortgage is transferred from one mortgagee or servicer to another, notice of the transfer of service shall be delivered:
(1) By the transferor mortgagee or servicer to the mortgagor. The notification shall be delivered not less than 15 days before the effective date of the transfer and shall contain the information required in § 3500.21(e)(2) of this title; and
(2) By the transferee mortgagee or servicer:
(i) To the mortgagor. The notification shall be delivered not less than 15 days before the effective date of the transfer and shall contain the information required in § 3500.21(e)(2) of this title; and
(ii) To the Secretary. This notification shall be delivered within 15 days of the transfer, in a format prescribed by the Secretary.
§ 203.508 Providing information.
(a) Mortgagees shall provide loan information to mortgagors and arrange for individual loan consultation on request. The mortgagee must establish written procedures and controls to assure prompt responses to inquiries. One or more of the following means of making information readily available to mortgagors is required:
(1) An office staffed with competent personnel located within 200 miles of the property, capable of providing timely responses to requests for information. Complete records need not be maintained in such an office if the staff is able to secure needed information and pass it on to the mortgagor.
(2) Toll-free telephone service at an office capable of providing needed information.
(b) All mortgagors must be informed of the system available for obtaining answers to loan inquiries, the office from which needed information may be obtained and reminded of the system at least annually. Toll-free telephone service need not be provided to a mortgagor other than at the office designated to serve the mortgagor nor other than from the immediate vicinity of the security property.
(c) Within thirty days after the end of each calendar year, the mortgagee shall furnish to the mortgagor a statement of the interest paid, and of the taxes disbursed from the escrow account during the preceding year. At the mortgagor’s request, the mortgagee shall furnish a statement of the escrow account sufficient to enable the mortgagor to reconcile the account.
(d) Mortgagees must respond to HUD requests for information concerning individual accounts.
(e) Each servicer of a mortgage shall deliver to the mortgagor a written notice of any assignment, sale, or transfer of the servicing of the mortgage. The notice must be sent in accordance with the provisions of § 3500.21(e)(1) of this title and shall contain the information required by § 3500.21(e)(2) of this title. Servicers must respond to mortgagor inquiries pertaining to the transfer of servicing in accordance with § 3500.21(f) of this title.
§ 203.510 Release of personal liability.
(a) Procedures. The mortgagee shall release a selling mortgagor from any personal liability for payment of the mortgage debt, if release is permitted by § 203.258 of this part, in accordance with the following procedures:
(1) The mortgagee receives a request for a creditworthiness determination for a prospective purchaser of all or part of the mortgaged property;
(2) The mortgagee or servicer performs a creditworthiness determination under § 203.512(b)(1) of this part if the mortgagee or servicer is approved for participation in the Direct Endorsement program, or the mortgagee requests a creditworthiness determination by the Secretary;
(3) The prospective purchaser is determined to be creditworthy under the standards applicable when a release of the selling mortgagor is intended;
(4) The prospective purchaser assumes personal liability by agreeing to pay the mortgage debt; and
(5) The mortgagee provides the selling mortgagor with a release of personal liability on a form approved by the Secretary.
(b) Release after 5 years. (1) If a selling mortgagor is not released under the procedures described in paragraph (a) of this section, either because no request for a creditworthiness determination is submitted under paragraph (a)(1) of this section, or because there is no affirmative determination of creditworthiness under paragraph (a)(3) of this section, then the selling mortgagor is automatically released from any personal liability for payment of the mortgage debt because of section 203(r) of the National Housing Act if:
(i) The purchasing mortgagor has assumed personal liability by agreeing to pay the mortgage debt;
(ii) Five years have elapsed after the assumption; and
(iii) The purchasing mortgagor is not in default under the mortgage at the end of the five-year period.
(2) If the conditions of this paragraph (b) for a release are satisfied, the mortgagee shall provide a written release upon request to the selling mortgagor.
(3) This paragraph (b) only applies to a mortgage originated pursuant to an application by the mortgagor on or after December 1, 1986 on a form approved by the Secretary.
(c) Mortgagee to provide notice. A mortgagee shall inform mortgagors (including prospective mortgagors seeking information) about the procedures for release of personal liability by providing a notice approved by the Secretary when required by the Secretary.
§ 203.512 Free assumability; exceptions.
(a) Policy of free assumability with no restrictions. A mortgagee shall not impose, agree to or enforce legal restrictions on conveyance, as defined in § 203.41(a)(3) of this part, or restrictions on assumption of the insured mortgage, unless specifically permitted by this part or contained in a junior lien granted to the mortgagee after settlement on the insured mortgage.
(b) Credit review. If approval is required by the mortgage, the mortgagee shall not approve the sale or other transfer of all or part of the mortgaged property, or the sale or transfer of a beneficial interest in a trust owning all or part of the property, whether or not any person acquires personal liability under the mortgage in connection with the sale or other transfer, unless:
(1) At least one of the persons acquiring ownership is determined to be creditworthy under applicable standards prescribed by the Secretary;
(2) The selling mortgagor retains an ownership interest in the property; or
(3) The transfer is by devise or descent.
(c) Investors and secondary residences. The mortgagee shall not approve the sale of other transfer or mortgaged property to a person who cannot be approved as a substitute mortgagor as provided in § 203.258 of this part because the property will not be a primary residence or a secondary residence permitted by that section.
(d) Due-on-sale clause. Each mortgage shall contain a due-on-sale clause permitting acceleration, in a form prescribed by the Secretary. If a sale or other transfer occurs without mortgagee approval and a prohibition in paragraphs (b) or (c) of this section applies, a mortgagee shall enforce this section by requesting approval from the Secretary to accelerate the mortgage, provided that acceleration is permitted by applicable law. The mortgagee shall accelerate if approval is granted. This paragraph applies only if the application by the mortgagor on a form approved by the Secretary is dated on or after December 1, 1986.
Payments, Charges and Accounts
§ 203.550 Escrow accounts.
(a) It is the mortgagee’s responsibility to make escrow disbursements before bills become delinquent. Mortgagees must establish controls to insure that bills payable from the escrow fund or the information needed to pay such bills is obtained on a timely basis. Penalties for late payments for items payable from the escrow account must not be charged to the mortgagor unless it can be shown that the penalty was the direct result of the mortgagor’s error or omission. The mortgagee shall use the procedures set forth in § 3500.17 of this title, implementing Section 10 of the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (12 U.S.C. 2609), to compute the amount of the escrow, the methods of collection and accounting, and the payment of the bills for which the money has been escrowed.
(b) [Reserved]
(c) In the case of escrow accounts created for purposes of § 203.52 or § 234.64 of this chapter, mortgagees may estimate escrow requirements based on the best information available as to probable payments that will be required to be made from the account on a periodic basis throughout the period during which the account is maintained.
(d) The mortgagee shall not institute foreclosure when the only default of the mortgagor occupant is a present inability to pay a substantial escrow shortage, resulting from an adjustment pursuant to this section, in a lump sum.
(e) When the contract of mortgage insurance is terminated voluntarily or because of prepayment in full, sums in the escrow account to pay the mortgage insurance premiums shall be remitted to HUD with a form approved by the Secretary for reporting the voluntary termination of prepayment. Upon prepayment in full sums held in escrow for taxes and hazard insurance shall be released to the mortgagor promptly.
§ 203.552 Fees and charges after endorsement.
(a) The mortgagee may collect reasonable and customary fees and charges from the mortgagor after insurance endorsement only as provided below. The mortgagee may collect these fees or charges from the mortgagor only to the extent that the mortgagee is not reimbursed for such fees by HUD.
(1) Late charges as set forth in § 203.25;
(2) Charges for processing or reprocessing a check returned as uncollectible; (Where bank policy permits, the mortgagee must deposit a check for collection a second time before assessing a bad check charge);
(3) Fees for processing a change of ownership of the mortgaged property;
(4) Fees and charges for arranging a substitution of liability under the mortgage in connection with the sale or transfer of the property;
(5) Charges for processing a request for credit approval of an assumptor or substitute mortgagor;
(6) Charges for substitution of a hazard insurance policy at other than the expiration of term of the existing hazard insurance policy;
(7) Charges for modification of the mortgage involving a recorded agreement for extension of term or reamortization;
(8) Fees and charges for processing a partial release of the mortgaged property;
(9) Attorney’s and trustee’s fees and expenses actually incurred (including the cost of appraisals pursuant to § 203.368(e) and cost of advertising pursuant to § 203.368(h)) when a case has been referred for foreclosure in accordance with the provisions of this part after a firm decision to foreclose if foreclosure is not completed because of a reinstatement of the account. (No attorney’s fee may be charged for the services of the mortgagee’s or servicer’s staff attorney or for the services of a collection attorney other than the attorney handling the foreclosure.)
(10) The service charge provided for by § 203.23(c) and escrow charges in accordance with § 203.23(a);
(11) A trustee’s fee if the security instrument in deed-of-trust states provides for payment of such a fee for execution of a satisfactory, release, or trustee’s deed when the deed of trust is paid in full; and
(12) Such other reasonable and customary charges as may be authorized by the Secretary. (This shall not include:
(i) Charges for servicing activities of the mortgagee or servicer;
(ii) Fees charged by independent tax servicer organizations which contract to furnish data and information necessary for the payment of property taxes,
(iii) Satisfaction, termination, or reconveyance fees when a mortgage is paid in full (other than as provided in paragraph (a)(11) of this section), or
(iv) The fee for recordation of a satisfaction of the mortgage in states where recordation is the responsibility of the mortgagee.)
(13) Where permitted by the security instrument, attorney’s fees and expenses actually incurred in the defense of any suit or legal proceeding wherein the mortgagee shall be made a party thereto by reason of the mortgage; (No attorney’s fee may be charged for the services of the mortgagee’s or servicer’s staff attorney.)
(14) Property preservation expenses incurred pursuant to § 203.377.
(b) reasonable and customary fees must be predicated upon the actual cost of the work performed including out-of-pocket expenses. Directors of HUD Area and Insuring Offices are authorized to establish maximum fees and charges which are reasonable and customary in their areas. Except as provided in this part, no fee or charge shall be based on a percentage of either the face amount of the mortgage or the unpaid principal balance due on the mortgage.
§ 203.554 Enforcement of late charges.
(a) A mortgagee shall not commence foreclosure when the only default on the part of the mortgagor is the failure to pay a late charge or charges (§ 203.25), except as provided in § 203.556.
(b) A late charge attributable to a particular installment payment due under the mortgage shall not be deducted from that installment. However, if the mortgagee thereafter notifies the mortgagor of his obligation to pay a late charge, such a charge may be deducted from any subsequent payment or payments submitted by the mortgagor or on his behalf if this is not inconsistent with the terms of the mortgage. Partial payments shall be treated as provided in § 203.556.
(c) A payment may be returned because of failure to include a late charge only if the mortgagee notifies the mortgagor before imposition of the charge of the amount of the monthly payment, the date when the late charge will be imposed and either the amount of the late charge or the total amount due when the late charge is included.
(d) During the 60-day period beginning on the effective date of transfer of the servicing of a mortgage, a late charge shall not be imposed on the mortgagor with respect to any payment on the loan. No payment shall be treated as late for any other purpose if the payment is received by the transferor servicer, rather than the transferee servicer that should receive the payment, before the due date (including any applicable grace period allowed under the mortgage documents) applicable to such payment.
§ 203.556 Return of partial payments.
(a) For the purpose of this section, a partial payment is a payment of any amount less than the full amount due under the terms of the mortgage at the time the payment is tendered, including late charges.
(b) Except as provided in this section, the mortgagee shall accept any partial payment and either apply it to the mortgagor’s account or identify it with the mortgagor’s account and hold it in a trust account pending disposition. When partial payments held for disposition aggregate a full monthly installment they shall be applied to the mortgagor’s account, thus advancing the date of the oldest unpaid installment but not the date on which the account first became delinquent.
(c) If the mortgage is not in default, a partial payment may be returned to the mortgagor with a letter of explanation.
(d) If the mortgage is in default, a partial payment may be returned to the mortgagor with a letter of explanation in any of the following circumstances:
(1) When payment aggregates less than 50 percent of the amount then due;
(2) The payment is less than the amount agreed to in a forbearance plan, whether or not reduced to writing;
(3) The property is occupied by a tenant who is paying rent and the rentals are not being applied to the mortgage payments;
(4) Foreclosure has been commenced. (Foreclosure is commenced when the first action required for foreclosure under applicable law is taken.)
(e) Under the following circumstances the mortgagee may return any partial payment received more than 14 days after the mortgagee has mailed to the mortgagor a statement of the full amount due, including late charges, and a notice of intention to return any payment less than such amount.
(1) Four or more monthly installments are due and unpaid, or
(2) A delinquency of any amount has continued for at least six months since the account first became delinquent.
§ 203.558 Handling prepayments.
(a) Handling prepayments for FHA-insured mortgages closed on or after January 21, 2015. With respect to FHA-insured mortgages closed on or after January 21, 2015, notwithstanding the terms of the mortgage, the mortgagee shall accept a prepayment at any time and in any amount. The mortgagee shall not require 30 days’ advance notice of prepayment, even if the mortgage instrument purports to require such notice. Monthly interest on the debt must be calculated on the actual unpaid principal balance of the loan as of the date the prepayment is received, and not as of the next installment due date.
(b) Handling prepayments for FHA-insured mortgages closed before January 21, 2015. (1) With respect to FHA mortgages insured before August 2, 1985, if a prepayment is offered on other than an installment due date, the mortgagee may refuse to accept the prepayment until the first day of the month following expiration of the 30-day notice period as provided in the mortgage, or may require payment of interest to that date, but only if the mortgagee so advises the mortgagor, in a form approved by the Commissioner, in response to the mortgagor’s inquiry, request for payoff figures, or tender of prepayment. If the installment due date (the first day of the month) falls on a nonbusiness day, the mortgagor’s notice of intention to prepay or the prepayment shall be timely if received on the next business day.
(2) With respect to FHA mortgages insured on or after August 2, 1985, but closed before January 21, 2015, the mortgagee shall not require 30 days’ advance notice of prepayment, even if the mortgage instrument purports to require such notice. If the prepayment is offered on other than an installment due date, the mortgagee may refuse to accept the prepayment until the next installment due date (the first day of the month), or may require payment of interest to that date, but only if the mortgagee so advises the mortgagor, in a form approved by the Commissioner, in response to the mortgagor’s inquiry, request for payoff figures, or tender of prepayment.
(3) If the mortgagee fails to meet the full disclosure requirements of paragraphs (b)(1) and (b)(2) of this section, the mortgagee may be subject to forfeiture of that portion of the interest collected for the period beyond the date that prepayment in full was received and to such other actions as are provided in part 25 of this title.
(c) Mortgagee annual notice to mortgagors. Each mortgagee, with respect to a mortgage under this part, shall provide to each of its mortgagors not less frequently than annually a written notice, in a form approved by the Commissioner, containing a statement of the amount outstanding for prepayment of the principal amount of the mortgage. With respect to FHA-insured mortgages closed before January 21, 2015, the notice shall describe any requirements the mortgagor must fulfill to prevent the accrual of any interest on the principal amount after the date of any prepayment. This paragraph shall apply to any outstanding mortgage insured on or after August 22, 1991.
Mortgagee Action and Forbearance
§ 203.600 Mortgage collection action.
Subject to the requirements of this subpart, mortgagees shall take prompt action to collect amounts due from mortgagors to minimize the number of accounts in a delinquent or default status. Collection techniques must be adapted to individual differences in mortgagors and take account of the circumstances peculiar to each mortgagor.
§ 203.602 Delinquency notice to mortgagor.
The mortgagee shall give notice to each mortgagor in default on a form supplied by the Secretary or, if the mortgagee wishes to use its own form, on a form approved by the Secretary, no later than the end of the second month of any delinquency in payments under the mortgage. If an account is reinstated and again becomes delinquent, the delinquency notice shall be sent to the mortgagor again, except that the mortgagee is not required to send a second delinquency notice to the same mortgagor more often than once each six months. The mortgagee may issue additional or more frequent notices of delinquency at its option.
§ 203.604 Contact with the mortgagor.
(a) [Reserved]
(b) The mortgagee must have a face-to-face interview with the mortgagor, or make a reasonable effort to arrange such a meeting, before three full monthly installments due on the mortgage are unpaid. If default occurs in a repayment plan arranged other than during a personal interview, the mortgagee must have a face-to-face meeting with the mortgagor, or make a reasonable attempt to arrange such a meeting within 30 days after such default and at least 30 days before foreclosure is commenced, or at least 30 days before assignment is requested if the mortgage is insured on Hawaiian home land pursuant to section 247 or Indian land pursuant to section 248 or if assignment is requested under § 203.350(d) for mortgages authorized by section 203(q) of the National Housing Act.
(c) A face-to-face meeting is not required if:
(1) The mortgagor does not reside in the mortgaged property,
(2) The mortgaged property is not within 200 miles of the mortgagee, its servicer, or a branch office of either,
(3) The mortgagor has clearly indicated that he will not cooperate in the interview,
(4) A repayment plan consistent with the mortgagor’s circumstances is entered into to bring the mortgagor’s account current thus making a meeting unnecessary, and payments thereunder are current, or
(5) A reasonable effort to arrange a meeting is unsuccessful.
(d) A reasonable effort to arrange a face-to-face meeting with the mortgagor shall consist at a minimum of one letter sent to the mortgagor certified by the Postal Service as having been dispatched. Such a reasonable effort to arrange a face-to-face meeting shall also include at least one trip to see the mortgagor at the mortgaged property, unless the mortgaged property is more than 200 miles from the mortgagee, its servicer, or a branch office of either, or it is known that the mortgagor is not residing in the mortgaged property.
(e)(1) For mortgages insured pursuant to section 248 of the National Housing Act, the provisions of paragraphs (b), (c) and (d) of this section are applicable, except that a face-to-face meeting with the mortgagor is required, and a reasonable effort to arrange such a meeting shall include at least one trip to see the mortgagor at the mortgaged property, notwithstanding that such property is more than 200 miles from the mortgagee, its servicer, or a branch office of either. In addition, the mortgagee must document that it has made at least one telephone call to the mortgagor for the purpose of trying to arrange a face-to-face interview. The mortgagee may appoint an agent to perform its responsibilities under this paragraph.
(2) The mortgagee must also:
(i) Inform the mortgagor that HUD will make information regarding the status and payment history of the mortgagor’s loan available to local credit bureaus and prospective creditors;
(ii) Inform the mortgagor of other available assistance, if any;
(iii) Inform the mortgagor of the names and addresses of HUD officials to whom further communications may be addressed.
§ 203.605 Loss mitigation performance.
(a) Duty to mitigate. Before four full monthly installments due on the mortgage have become unpaid, the mortgagee shall evaluate on a monthly basis all of the loss mitigation techniques provided at § 203.501 to determine which is appropriate. Based upon such evaluations, the mortgagee shall take the appropriate loss mitigation action. Documentation must be maintained for the initial and all subsequent evaluations and resulting loss mitigation actions. Should a claim for mortgage insurance benefits later be filed, the mortgagee shall maintain this documentation in the claim review file under the requirements of § 203.365(c).
(b) Assessment of mortgagee’s loss mitigation performance. (1) HUD will measure and advise mortgagees of their loss mitigation performance through the Tier Ranking System (TRS). Under the TRS, HUD will analyze each mortgagee’s loss mitigation efforts portfolio-wide on a quarterly basis, based on 12 months of performance, by computing ratios involving loss mitigation attempts, defaults, and claims. Based on the ratios, HUD will group mortgagees in four tiers (Tiers 1, 2, 3, and 4), with Tier 1 representing the highest or best ranking mortgagees and Tier 4 representing the lowest or least satisfactory ranking mortgagees. The precise methodology for calculating the TRS ratios and for determining the tier stratification (or cutoff points) will be provided through
(2) Before HUD issues each quarterly TRS notice, HUD will review the number of claims paid to the mortgagee. If HUD determines that the lender’s low TRS score is the result of a small number of defaults or a small number of foreclosure claims, or both, as defined by notice, HUD may determine not to designate the mortgagee as Tier 3 or Tier 4, and the mortgagee will remain unranked.
(3) Within 30 calendar days after the date of the TRS notice, a mortgagee that scored in Tier 4 may appeal its ranking to the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Single Family or the Deputy Assistant Secretary’s designee and request an informal HUD conference. The only basis for appeal by the Tier 4 mortgagee is disagreement with the data used by HUD to calculate the mortgagee’s ranking. If HUD determines that the mortgagee’s Tier 4 ranking was based on incorrect or incomplete data, the mortgagee’s performance will be recalculated and the mortgagee will receive a corrected tier ranking score.
(c) Assessment of civil money penalty. A mortgagee that is found to have failed to engage in loss mitigation as required under paragraph (a) of this section shall be liable for a civil money penalty as provided in § 30.35(c) of this title.
§ 203.606 Pre-foreclosure review.
(a) Before initiating foreclosure, the mortgagee must ensure that all servicing requirements of this subpart have been met. The mortgagee may not commence foreclosure for a monetary default unless at least three full monthly installments due under the mortgage are unpaid after application of any partial payments that may have been accepted but not yet applied to the mortgage account. In addition, prior to initiating any action required by law to foreclose the mortgage, the mortgagee shall notify the mortgagor in a format prescribed by the Secretary that the mortgagor is in default and the mortgagee intends to foreclose unless the mortgagor cures the default.
(b) If the mortgagee determines that any of the following conditions has been met, the mortgagee may initiate foreclosure without the delay in foreclosure required by paragraph (a) of this section:
(1) The mortgaged property has been abandoned, or has been vacant for more than 60 days.
(2) The mortgagor, after being clearly advised of the options available for relief, has clearly stated in writing that he or she has no intention of fulfilling his or her obligation under the mortgage.
(3) The mortgaged property is not the mortgagor’s principal residence and it is occupied by tenants who are paying rent, but the rental income is not being applied to the mortgage debt.
(4) The property is owned by a corporation or partnership.
§ 203.608 Reinstatement.
The mortgagee shall permit reinstatement of a mortgage, even after the institution of foreclosure proceedings, if the mortgagor tenders in a lump sum all amounts required to bring the account current, including foreclosure costs and reasonable attorney’s fees and expenses properly associated with the foreclosure action, unless: (a) The mortgagee has accepted reinstatement after the institution of foreclosure proceedings within two years immediately preceding the commencement of the current foreclosure action, (b) reinstatement will preclude foreclosure following a subsequent default, or (c) reinstatement will adversely affect the priority of the mortgage lien.
§ 203.610 Relief for mortgagor in military service.
The mortgagee shall specifically give consideration to affording the mortgagor the benefit of relief authorized by §§ 203.345 and 203.346, if the mortgagor is person in the military service as that term is defined in the Soldiers and Sailors Civil Relief Act of 1940, as amended.
§ 203.614 Special forbearance.
If the mortgagee finds that a default is due to circumstances beyond the mortgagor’s control, as defined by HUD, the mortgagee may grant special forbearance relief to the mortgagor in accordance with the conditions prescribed by HUD.
§ 203.616 Mortgage modification.
The mortgagee may modify a mortgage for the purpose of changing the amortization provisions by recasting the total unpaid amount due for a term not exceeding 360 months. The mortgagee must notify HUD of such modification in a format prescribed by HUD within 30 days of the execution of the modification agreement.
Mortgages in Default on Property Located on Indian Reservations
§ 203.664 Processing defaulted mortgages on property located on Indian land.
Before a mortgagee requests that the Secretary accept assignment under § 203.350(b) of a mortgage insured pursuant to section 248 of the National Housing Act (§ 203.43h), the mortgagee must submit documents showing that the requirements of § 203.604 have been met.
Mortgages in Default on Property Located on Hawaiian Home Lands
§ 203.665 Processing defaulted mortgages on property located on Hawaiian home lands.
Before a mortgagee requests the Secretary to accept assignment under § 203.350(c) of a mortgage insured pursuant to section 247 of the National Housing Act (§ 203.43i), the mortgagee must submit documents showing that the requirements of § 203.604 have been met.
Assignment and Forbearance – Property in Allegany Reservation of Seneca Indians
§ 203.666 Processing defaulted mortgages on property in Allegany Reservation of Seneca Nation of Indians.
(a) Applicability. This section applies to mortgages authorized by section 203(q) of the National Housing Act (§ 203.43j) only if the default occurred before the mortgagor and the lessee execute a lease renewal or a new lease either with a term of not less than five years beyond the maturity date of the mortgage, or with a term established by an arbitration award.
(b) Claims through assignment. Before a mortgagee requests the Secretary to accept assignment under § 203.350(d) the mortgagee must submit documents showing that the requirements of § 203.604 have been met.
Occupied Conveyance
§ 203.670 Conveyance of occupied property.
(a) It is HUD’s policy to reduce the inventory of acquired properties in a manner that expands homeownership opportunities, strengthens neighborhoods and communities, and ensures a maximum return to the mortgage insurance fund.
(b) The Secretary will accept conveyance of an occupied property containing one to four residential units if the Secretary finds that:
(1) An individual residing in the property suffers from a temporary, permanent, or long-term illness or injury that would be aggravated by the process of moving from the property, and that the individual meets the eligibility criteria in § 203.674(a);
(2) State or local law prohibits the mortgagee from evicting a tenant residing in the property who is making regular monthly payments to the mortgagor, or prohibits eviction for other similar reasons beyond the control of the mortgagee; or
(3) It is in the Secretary’s interest to accept conveyance of the property occupied under § 203.671, the property is habitable as defined in § 203.673, and, except for conveyances under § 203.671(d), each occupant who intends to remain in the property after the conveyance meets the eligibility criteria in § 203.674(b).
(c) HUD consents to accept good marketable title to occupied property where 90 days have elapsed since the mortgagee notified HUD of pending acquisition, the Department has notified the mortgagee that it was considering a request for continued occupancy, and no subsequent notification from HUD has been received by the mortgagee.
§ 203.671 Criteria for determining the Secretary’s interest.
It is in the Secretary’s interest to accept occupied conveyance when one or more of the following are met:
(a) Occupancy of the property is essential to protect it from vandalism from time of acquisition to the time of preparation for sale.
(b) The average time in inventory for HUD’s unsold inventory in the residential area in which the property is located exceeds six months.
(c) With respect to multi-unit properties, the marketability of the property would be improved by retaining occupancy of one or more units.
(d) The high cost of eviction or relocation expenses makes eviction impractical.
§ 203.672 Residential areas.
(a) For the purposes of occupied conveyance considerations, a residential area is any area which constitutes a local economic market for the purchase and sale of residential real estate. In making determinations of residential areas, substantial weight shall be given to delineations of such areas commonly used by persons active in the real estate industry in the affected area.
(b) HUD shall establish such residential areas within six (6) months of the publication of these regulations when HUD’s current established patterns of dealing with the disposition of its acquired home property inventory and related recordkeeping does not coincide with paragraph (a) of this section. Under such circumstances the Secretary shall apply such established patterns in defining residential areas until the standards in paragraph (a) of this section are implemented.
§ 203.673 Habitability.
(a) For purposes of § 203.670, a property is habitable if it meets the requirements of this section in its present condition, or will meet these requirements with the expenditure of not more than five percent of the fair market value of the property. The cost of hazard reduction or abatement of lead-based paint hazards in the property, as required by the Lead-Based Paint Poisoning Prevention Act (42 U.S.C. 4821-4846), and the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992 (42 U.S.C. 4851-4856), and implementing regulations in part 35 of this title, is excluded from these repair cost limitations.
(b)(1) Each residential unit must contain:
(i) Heating facilities adequate for healthful and comfortable living conditions, taking into consideration the local climate;
(ii) Adequate electrical supply for lighting and for equipment used in the residential unit;
(iii) Adequate cooking facilities;
(iv) A continuing supply of hot and cold water; and
(v) Adequate sanitary facilities and a safe method of sewage disposal.
(2) The property shall be structurally sound, reasonably durable, and free from hazards that may adversely affect the health and safety of the occupants or may impair the customary use and enjoyment by the occupants. Unacceptable hazards include, but are not limited to, subsidence, erosion, flood, exposure to the elements, exposed or unsafe electrical wiring, or an accumulation of minor hazards, such as broken stairs.
(c) If repairs, including lead-based paint hazard reduction or abatement, are to be made while the property is occupied, the occupant must hold the Secretary and the Department harmless against any personal injury or property damage that may occur during the process of making repairs. If temporary relocation of the occupant is necessary during repairs, no reimbursement for relocation expenses will be provided to the occupant.
§ 203.674 Eligibility for continued occupancy.
(a) Occupancy because of temporary, permanent, or long-term illness or injury of an individual residing in the property will be limited to a reasonable time, to be determined by the Secretary on a case-by-case basis, and will be permitted only if all the conditions in this paragraph (a) are met:
(1) A timely request is made in accordance with § 203.676, including the submittal of documents required in § 203.675(b)(4).
(2) The occupant agrees to execute a month-to-month lease, at the time of acquisition of the property by the Secretary and on a form prescribed by HUD, and to pay a fair market rent as determined by the Secretary. The rental rate shall be established on the basis of rents charged for other properties in comparable condition after completion of repairs (if any).
(3) The occupant’s total housing cost (rent plus utility costs to be paid by the occupant) will not exceed 38 percent of the occupant’s net effective income (gross income less Federal income taxes). However, a higher percentage may be permitted if the occupant has been paying at least the required rental amount for the dwelling, or if there are other compensating factors (e.g., where the occupant is able to rely on cash savings or on contributions from family members to cover total housing costs).
(4) The occupant agrees to allow access to the property (during normal business hours and upon a minimum of two days advance notice) by HUD Field Office staff or by a HUD representative, so that the property may be inspected and any necessary repairs accomplished, or by a sales broker.
(5) The occupant discloses and verifies Social Security Numbers, as provided by part 200, subpart T, of this chapter.
(b) An occupant who does not meet the illness or injury criteria in paragraph (a) of this section is eligible for continued occupancy only if all the conditions in this paragraph (b) are met:
(1) A timely request is made in accordance with § 203.676.
(2) The occupant agrees to execute a month-to-month lease, at the time of acquisition of the property by the Secretary and on a form prescribed by HUD, to pay fair market rent as determined by the Secretary, and to pay the rent for the first month in advance at the time the lease is executed. The rental rate shall be established on the basis of rents charged for other properties in comparable condition after completion of repairs (if any).
(3) The occupant will have been in occupancy at least 90 days before the date the mortgagee acquires title to the property.
(4) The occupant’s total housing cost (rent plus utility costs to be paid by the occupant) will not exceed 38 percent of the occupant’s net effective income (gross income less Federal income taxes). However, a higher percentage may be permitted if the occupant has been paying at least the required rental amount for the dwelling, or if there are other compensating factors (e.g., where the occupant is able to rely on cash savings or on contributions from family members to cover total housing costs).
(5) The occupant agrees to allow access to the property (during normal business hours and upon a minimum of two days advance notice) by HUD Field Office staff or by a HUD representative, so that the property may be inspected and any necessary repairs accomplished, or by a sales broker.
(6) The occupant discloses and verifies Social Security Number, as provided by part 200, subpart T, of this chapter.
§ 203.675 Notice to occupants of pending acquisition.
(a) At least 60 days, but not more than 90 days, before the date on which the mortgagee reasonably expects to acquire title to the property, the mortgagee shall notify the mortgagor and each head of household who is actually occupying a unit of the property of its potential acquisition by HUD. The mortgagee shall send a copy of this notification to the appropriate HUD Field Office.
(b) The notice shall provide a brief summary of the conditions under which continued occupancy is permissible and advise them that:
(1) Potential acquisition of the property by the Secretary is pending;
(2) The Secretary requires that properties be vacant at the time of conveyance to the Secretary, unless the mortgagor or other occupant can meet the conditions for continued occupancy in § 203.670, the habitability criteria in § 203.673, and the eligibility criteria in § 203.674;
(3) An occupant may request permission to remain in occupancy in the event of acquisition of the property by the Secretary by notifying the HUD Field Office in writing, with any required documentation, within 20 days of the date of the mortgagee’s notice to the occupant;
(4) If an occupant seeks to qualify for continued occupancy under the illness or injury provisions of § 203.674(a), the occupant shall provide to the HUD Field Office, at the time of the occupant’s request for permission to remain in occupancy, documentation to support this claim. Documentation shall include an estimate of the time when the patient could be moved without severely aggravating the illness or injury, and a statement by a State-certified physician establishing the validity of the occupant’s claim. HUD may require more than one medical opinion or may arrange an examination by a physician approved by HUD; and
(5) If an occupant fails to make a timely request, the property must be vacated before the scheduled time of acquisition.
§ 203.676 Request for continued occupancy.
An occupant may request permission to continue to occupy the property following conveyance to the Secretary by notifying the HUD Field Office in writing, within 20 days after the date of the mortgagee’s notice of pending acquisition. Verification of illness or injury as described in § 203.675(b)(4) shall be submitted within this time period if an occupant seeks to qualify for continued occupancy under the provisions of § 203.674(a). The HUD Field Office will notify the mortgagee in writing that an occupied conveyance has been requested.
§ 203.677 Decision to approve or deny a request.
(a) The HUD Field Office will provide written notification of its decision to an occupant who makes a timely request to continue to occupy the property. The decision of the HUD Field Office on this matter will be made by the Chief, Property Disposition. If the decision is to deny the request, the notice to the occupant will include a statement of the reason or reasons for the decision and of the occupant’s right to appeal. The occupant may appeal HUD’s decision within 20 days after the date of HUD’s notice. The appeal must be addressed to the Field Office Manager and be in writing, and the occupant may provide documentation intended to refute the reasons given for HUD’s decision. The occupant may also request an informal conference with a representative of the HUD Field Office Manager. A request for an informal conference must be made in writing within 10 days after the date of HUD’s notice. The occupant may be represented at the conference by counsel or by other persons with pertinent expert knowledge or experience.
(b) After notification that HUD has denied a request for continued occupancy, the occupant, on his or her request, shall be permitted to review all relevant material in HUD’s possession (including a copy of the inspection report if the request is denied because the property is not habitable as defined in § 203.673). Only material in HUD’s possession that directly pertains to conditions for continued occupancy under §§ 203.670, 203.673, and 203.674 may be considered material relevant for an occupant’s review under this paragraph. This review shall be limited to a review of material for purposes of the informal conference or the appeal of the Department’s decision. The information will only be provided after request for an informal conference or appeal has been submitted to HUD.
(c) After consideration of an appeal, the HUD Field Office will notify the applicant in writing of HUD’s final decision. This final decision will be made by the HUD Field Office Manager or a representative of the Field Office Manager (other than the Chief, Property Disposition). If the decision is to deny the occupant’s request, the notice to the occupant will reflect consideration of the issues raised by the occupant.
(d) If, after consideration of an appeal, the Field Office Manager denies the request for new or additional reasons, the occupant will be afforded an opportunity to request that the Field Office Manager reconsider its decision under the provisions of paragraph (c) of this section.
§ 203.678 Conveyance of vacant property.
(a) HUD will require that the property be conveyed vacant if the occupant fails to request permission to continue to occupy within the time period specified in § 203.676, or fails to request a conference or to appeal a decision to deny occupied conveyance within the time period specified in § 203.677(a).
(b) If the mortgagee has not been notified by HUD, within 45 days of the date of the mortgagee’s notification of pending acquisition, that a request for continued occupancy is under consideration, the mortgagee shall convey the property vacant, unless otherwise directed by HUD.
§ 203.679 Continued occupancy after conveyance.
(a) Occupancy of HUD-acquired property is temporary in all cases and is subject to termination when necessary to facilitate preparing the property for sale and completing the sale.
(b) HUD will notify the occupant to vacate the property and, if necessary, will take appropriate eviction action in any of the following situations:
(1) Failure of the occupant to execute the lease required by § 203.674 (a)(2) and (b)(2), or failure to pay the rental amount required, including the initial payment at the time of execution of the lease, or to comply with the terms of the lease;
(2) Failure of the occupant to allow access to the property upon request in accordance with § 203.674 (a)(4) and (b)(5);
(3) Necessity to prepare the property for sale; or
(4) Assignment of the property by the Secretary to a different use or program.
§ 203.680 Approval of occupancy after conveyance.
When an occupied property is conveyed to HUD before HUD has had an opportunity to consider continued occupancy (e.g., where HUD has taken more than 90 days to make a final decision on continued occupancy in accordance with § 203.670(c)), a determination regarding continued occupancy will be made in accordance with the conditions for the initial approval of occupied conveyance. Any such determination shall be in accordance with HUD’s obligations under the terms of any month-to-month lease that has been executed.
§ 203.681 Authority of HUD Field Office Managers.
Field Office Managers shall act for the Secretary in all matters relating to assignment and occupied conveyance determinations. The decision of the Field Office Manager under § 203.677 will be final and not be subject to further administrative review.
PART 204 – COINSURANCE
§ 204.1 Termination of program.
Effective December 29, 1994, of final rule the authority to coinsure mortgages under this part is terminated, except that the Department will honor legally binding and validly issued borrower approvals issued by lenders before the termination date. This part 204, as it existed immediately before the termination date, will continue to govern the rights and obligations of coinsured lenders, mortgagors, and the Department of Housing and Urban Development with respect to loans coinsured under this part.
PART 206 – HOME EQUITY CONVERSION MORTGAGE INSURANCE
Subpart A – General
§ 206.1 Purpose.
The purposes of the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) Insurance program are set out in section 255(a) of the National Housing Act, Public Law 73-479, 48 Stat. 1246 (12 U.S.C. 1715z-20) (“NHA”).
§ 206.3 Definitions.
As used in this part, the following terms shall have the meaning indicated.
Bona fide tenant means a tenant of the property who is not a mortgagor, borrower, a spouse or child of a mortgagor or borrower, or any other member of a mortgagor’s or borrower’s family.
Borrower means a mortgagor who is an original borrower under the HECM Loan Agreement and Note. The term does not include successors or assigns of a borrower.
Borrower’s Advance means the funds advanced to the borrower at the closing of a fixed interest rate HECM in accordance with § 206.25.
CMT Index means the U.S. Constant Maturity Treasury Index.
Commissioner means the Federal Housing Commissioner or the Commissioner’s authorized representative.
Contract of insurance means the agreement evidenced by the issuance of a Mortgage Insurance Certificate or by the endorsement of the Commissioner upon the credit instrument given in connection with an insured mortgage, incorporating by reference the regulations in subpart C of this part and the applicable provisions of the National Housing Act.
Day means calendar day, except where the term business day is used.
Deferral Period means the period of time following the death of the last surviving borrower during which the due and payable status of a HECM is deferred for an Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse provided that the Qualifying Attributes and all other FHA requirements continue to be satisfied.
Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse means a Non-Borrowing Spouse who meets all Qualifying Attributes for a Deferral Period.
Estate planning service firm means an individual or entity that is not a mortgagee approved under part 202 of this chapter or a participating agency approved under subpart B of 24 CFR part 214 and that charges a fee that is:
(1) Contingent on the prospective borrower obtaining a mortgage loan under this part, except the origination fee authorized by § 206.31 or a fee specifically authorized by the Commissioner; or
(2) For information that borrowers and Eligible and Ineligible Non-Borrowing Spouses, if applicable, must receive under § 206.41, except a fee by:
(i) A participating agency approved under subpart B of 24 CFR part 214; or
(ii) An individual or company, such as an attorney or accountant, in the bona fide business of generally providing tax or other legal or financial advice; or
(3) For other services that the provider of the services represents are, in whole or in part, for the purpose of improving a prospective borrower’s access to mortgages covered by this part, except where the fee is for services specifically authorized by the Commissioner.
Expected average mortgage interest rate means the interest rate used to calculate the principal limit established at closing. For fixed interest rate HECMs, the expected average mortgage interest rate is the same as the fixed mortgage (Note) interest rate and is set simultaneously with the fixed interest rate. For adjustable interest rate HECMs, it is either the sum of the mortgagee’s margin plus the weekly average yield for U.S. Treasury securities adjusted to a constant maturity of 10 years, or it is the sum of the mortgagee’s margin plus the 10-year LIBOR swap rate, depending on which interest rate index is chosen by the borrower. The margin is determined by the mortgagee and is defined as the amount that is added to the index value to compute the expected average mortgage interest rate. The index type (CMT or LIBOR) used to calculate the expected average mortgage interest rate must be the same index type used to calculate mortgage interest rate adjustments – commingling of index types is not allowed. The mortgagee’s margin is the same margin used to determine the initial interest rate and the periodic adjustments to the interest rate. Mortgagees, with the agreement of the borrower, may simultaneously lock in the expected average mortgage interest rate and the mortgagee’s margin prior to the date of loan closing or simultaneously establish the expected average mortgage interest rate and the mortgagee’s margin on the date of loan closing.
First 12-Month Disbursement Period means the period beginning on the day of loan closing and ending on the day before the loan closing anniversary date. When the day before the anniversary date of loan closing falls on a Federally-observed holiday, Saturday, or Sunday, the end period will be on the next business day after the Federally-observed holiday, Saturday or Sunday.
HECM means a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage.
HECM counselor means an independent third party who is currently active on FHA’s HECM Counselor Roster and who is not, either directly or indirectly, associated with or compensated by, a party involved in originating, servicing, or funding the HECM, or the sale of annuities, investments, long-term care insurance, or any other type of financial or insurance product who provides statutorily required counseling to prospective borrowers who may be eligible for or interested in obtaining an FHA-insured HECM. This counseling assists elderly prospective borrowers who seek to convert equity in their homes into income that can be used to pay for home improvements, medical costs, living expenses, or other expenses.
Ineligible Non-Borrowing Spouse means a Non-Borrowing Spouse who does not meet all Qualifying Attributes for a Deferral Period.
Initial Disbursement Limit means the maximum amount of funds that can be advanced to a borrower of an adjustable interest rate HECM allowed at loan closing and during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period in accordance with § 206.25.
Insured mortgage means a mortgage which has been insured as evidenced by the issuance of a Mortgage Insurance Certificate.
LIBOR means the London Interbank Offered Rate.
Loan documents mean the credit instrument, or Note, secured by the lien, and the loan agreement.
Mandatory Obligations are fees and charges incurred in connection with the origination of the HECM that are requirements for loan approval and which will be paid at closing or during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period in accordance with § 206.25.
Maximum claim amount means the lesser of the appraised value of the property, as determined by the appraisal used in underwriting the loan; the sales price of the property being purchased for the sole purpose of being the principal residence; or the national mortgage limit for a one-family residence under subsections 255(g) or (m) of the National Housing Act (as adjusted where applicable under section 214 of the National Housing Act) as of the date of loan closing. The initial mortgage insurance premium must not be taken into account in the calculation of the maximum claim amount. Closing costs must not be taken into account in determining appraised value.
MIP means the mortgage insurance premium paid by the mortgagee to the Commissioner in consideration of the contract of insurance.
Mortgage means a first lien on real estate under the laws of the jurisdiction where the real estate is located. If the dwelling unit is in a condominium, the term mortgage means a first lien covering a fee interest or eligible leasehold interest in a one-family unit in a condominium project, together with an undivided interest in the common areas and facilities serving the project, and such restricted common areas and facilities as may be designated. The term refers to a security instrument creating a lien, whether called a mortgage, deed of trust, security deed, or another term used in a particular jurisdiction.
Mortgagee means original lender under a mortgage and its successors and assigns, as are approved by the Commissioner.
Mortgagor means each original mortgagor under a HECM mortgage and his heirs, executors, administrators, and assigns.
Non-Borrowing Spouse means the spouse, as defined by the law of the state in which the spouse and borrower reside or the state of celebration, of the HECM borrower at the time of closing and who is also not a borrower.
Participating agency means all housing counseling and intermediary organizations participating in HUD’s Housing Counseling program, including HUD-approved agencies, and affiliates and branches of HUD-approved intermediaries, HUD-approved multi-state organizations (MSOs), and state housing finance agencies.
Principal limit means the maximum amount calculated, taking into account the age of the youngest borrower or Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse, the expected average mortgage interest rate, and the maximum claim amount. The principal limit is calculated for the first month that a mortgage could be outstanding using factors provided by the Commissioner. It increases each month thereafter at a rate equal to one-twelfth of the mortgage interest rate in effect at that time, plus one-twelfth of the annual mortgage insurance rate. For an adjustable interest rate HECM, the principal limit increase may be made available to the borrower each month thereafter except that the availability during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period may be restricted. Although the principal limit of a fixed interest rate HECM will continue to increase at the rate provided by the Commissioner, no further funds may be made available for the borrower to draw against after closing. The principal limit may decrease because of insurance or condemnation proceeds applied to the outstanding loan balance under § 206.209(b).
Principal residence means the dwelling where the borrower and, if applicable, Non-Borrowing Spouse, maintain their permanent place of abode, and typically spend the majority of the calendar year. A person may have only one principal residence at any one time. The property shall be considered to be the principal residence of any borrower who is temporarily in a health care institution provided the borrower’s residency in a health care institution does not exceed twelve consecutive months. The property shall be considered to be the principal residence of any Non-Borrowing Spouse, who is temporarily in a health care institution, as long as the property is the principal residence of his or her borrower spouse, who physically resides in the property. During a Deferral Period, the property shall continue to be considered to be the principal residence of any Non-Borrowing Spouse, who is temporarily in a health care institution, provided he or she qualified as an Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse and physically occupied the property immediately prior to entering the health care institution and his or her residency in a health care institution does not exceed twelve consecutive months.
Property charges means, unless otherwise specified, obligations of the borrower that include property taxes, hazard insurance premiums, any applicable flood insurance premiums, ground rents, condominium fees, planned unit development fees, homeowners’ association fees, and any other special assessments that may be levied by municipalities or state law.
Qualifying Attributes means the requirements which must be met by a Non-Borrowing Spouse in order to be an Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse.
§ 206.7 Effect of amendments.
The regulations in this part may be amended by the Commissioner at any time and from time to time, in whole or in part, but amendments to subparts B and C of this part will not adversely affect the interests of a mortgagee on any mortgage to be insured for which either the Direct Endorsement mortgagee or Lender Insurance mortgagee has approved the borrower and all terms and conditions of the mortgage, or the Commissioner has made a commitment to insure. Such amendments will not adversely affect the interests of a borrower in the case of a default by a mortgagee where the Commissioner makes payments to the borrower.
§ 206.8 Preemption.
(a) Lien priority. The full amount secured by the mortgage shall have the same priority over any other liens on the property as if the full amount had been disbursed on the date the initial disbursement was made, regardless of the actual date of any disbursement. The amount secured by the mortgage shall include all direct payments by the mortgagee to the borrower and all other loan advances permitted by the mortgage for any purpose, including loan advances for interest, property charges, mortgage insurance premiums, required repairs, servicing charges, counseling charges, and costs of collection, regardless of when the payments or loan advances were made. The priority provided by this section shall apply notwithstanding any State constitution, law, or regulation.
(b) Second mortgage. If the Commissioner holds a second mortgage, it shall have a priority subordinate only to the first mortgage (and any senior liens permitted by paragraph (a) of this section).
Subpart B – Eligibility; Endorsement
§ 206.9 Eligible mortgagees.
(a) Statutory requirements. See sections (b)(2), (c), and 255(d)(1) of the NHA.
(b) HUD approved mortgagees. Any mortgagee authorized under paragraph (a) of this section and approved under part 202 of this chapter, except an investing mortgagee approved under § 202.9 of this chapter, is eligible to apply for insurance. A mortgagee approved under §§ 202.6, 202.7, 202.9 or 202.10 of this chapter may purchase, hold and sell mortgages insured under this part without additional approval.
§ 206.13 Disclosure of available HECM program options.
At the time of initial contact, the mortgagee shall inform the prospective HECM borrower, in a manner acceptable to the Commissioner, of all products, features, and options of the HECM program that FHA will insure under this part, including: fixed interest rate mortgages with the Single Lump Sum payment option; adjustable interest rate mortgages with tenure, term, and line of credit disbursement options, or a combination of these; any other FHA insurable disbursement options; and initial mortgage insurance premium options, and how those affect the availability of other mortgage and disbursement options.
§ 206.15 Insurance.
Mortgages originated under this part must be endorsed through the Direct Endorsement program under § 203.5 of this chapter, except that any references to § 203.255 in § 203.5 shall mean § 206.115. The mortgagee shall submit the information as described in § 206.115(b) for the Direct Endorsement program; the certificate of housing counseling as described in § 206.41; a copy of the title insurance commitment satisfactory to the Commissioner (or other acceptable title evidence if the Commissioner has determined not to require title insurance under § 206.45(a)); the mortgagee’s election of either the assignment or shared premium option under § 206.107; and any other documentation required by the Commissioner. If the mortgagee has complied with the requirements of §§ 203.3 and 203.5, except that any reference to § 203.255 in these sections shall mean § 206.115 for purposes of this section, and other requirements of this part, and the mortgage is determined to be eligible, the Commissioner will endorse the mortgage for insurance by issuing a Mortgage Insurance Certificate.
Eligible Mortgages
§ 206.17 Eligible mortgages: general.
(a) [Reserved]
(b) Interest rate and payment options. A HECM shall provide for either fixed or adjustable interest rates in accordance with § 206.21.
(1) Fixed interest rate mortgages shall use the Single Lump Sum payment option (§ 206.19(e)).
(2) Adjustable interest rate mortgages shall initially provide for the term (§ 206.19(a)), the tenure (§ 206.19(b)), the line of credit (§ 206.19(c)), or a modified term or modified tenure (§ 206.19(d)) payment option, subject to a later change in accordance with § 206.26.
(c) Shared appreciation. A mortgage may provide for shared appreciation in accordance with § 206.23.
§ 206.19 Payment options.
(a) Term payment option. Under the term payment option, equal monthly payments are made by the mortgagee to the borrower for a fixed term of months chosen by the borrower in accordance with this section and § 206.25(e), unless the mortgage is prepaid in full or becomes due and payable earlier under § 206.27(c).
(b) Tenure payment option. Under the tenure payment option, equal monthly payments are made by the mortgagee to the borrower in accordance with this section and with § 206.25(f), unless the mortgage is prepaid in full or becomes due and payable under § 206.27(c).
(c) Line of credit payment option. Under the line of credit payment option, payments are made by the mortgagee to the borrower at times and in amounts determined by the borrower as long as the amounts do not exceed the payment amounts permitted by § 206.25.
(d) Modified term or modified tenure payment option. Under the modified term or modified tenure payment options, equal monthly payments are made by the mortgagee and the mortgagee shall set aside a portion of the principal limit to be drawn down as a line of credit as long as the amounts do not exceed the payment amounts permitted by § 206.25.
(e) Single Lump Sum payment option. Under the Single Lump Sum payment option, the Borrower’s Advance will be made by the mortgagee to the borrower in an amount that does not exceed the payment amount permitted in § 206.25. The Single Lump Sum payment option will be available only for fixed interest rate HECMs. Set asides requiring disbursements after close may be offered in accordance with paragraphs (f)(1) through (3) of this section.
(f) Principal limit set asides – (1) Repair Set Aside. When repairs required by § 206.47 will be completed after closing, the mortgagee shall set aside a portion of the principal limit equal to 150 percent of the Commissioner’s estimated cost of repairs, plus the repair administration fee.
(2) Property Charge Set Aside – (i) Life Expectancy Set Aside (LESA). When required by § 206.205(b)(1) or selected by the borrower under § 206.205(b)(2)(i)(B), the mortgagee shall set aside a portion of the principal limit, consistent with the requirements of § 206.205, for payment of the following property charges: property taxes including special assessments levied by municipalities or state law, and flood and hazard insurance premiums.
(ii) Borrower elects to have mortgagee pay property charges – (A) First year property charges. When required by § 206.205(d), the mortgagee shall set aside a portion of the principal limit for payment of the following property charges that must be paid during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period: property taxes including special assessments levied by municipalities or state law, and flood and hazard insurance premiums. The mortgagee’s estimate of withholding amount shall be based on the best information available as to probable payments which will be required to be made for property charges in the coming year. The mortgagee may not require the withholding of amounts in excess of the current estimated total annual requirement, unless expressly requested by the borrower. Each month’s withholding for property charges shall equal one-twelfth of the annual amounts as reasonably estimated by the mortgagee.
(B) Property charges for subsequent years. For subsequent year property charges, the mortgagee’s estimate of withholding amount shall be based on the best information available as to probable payments which will be required to be made for property charges in the coming year. If actual disbursements during the preceding year are used as the basis, the resulting estimate may deviate from those disbursements by as much as ten percent. The mortgagee may not require the withholding of amounts in excess of the current estimated total annual requirement, unless expressly requested by the borrower. Each month’s withholding for property charges shall equal one-twelfth of the annual amounts as reasonably estimated by the mortgagee.
(3) Servicing Fee Set Aside. When servicing charges will be made as permitted by § 206.207(b), the mortgagee shall set aside a portion of the principal limit sufficient to cover charges through a period equal to the payment term which would be used to calculate tenure payments under § 206.25(f).
(g) Interest accrual and repayment. The interest charged on the outstanding loan balance shall begin to accrue from the funding date and shall be added to the outstanding loan balance monthly as provided in the mortgage. Under all payment options, repayment of the outstanding loan balance is deferred until the mortgage becomes due and payable under § 206.27(c).
(h) Disbursement limits. (1) For all HECMs, no disbursements shall be made under any of the payment options, notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this section or in § 206.25, in an amount which shall cause the outstanding loan balance after the payment to exceed any maximum mortgage amount stated in the security instruments or to otherwise exceed the amount secured by a first lien.
(2) For adjustable interest rate HECMs:
(i) No disbursements shall be made under any of the payment options during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period in excess of the Initial Disbursement Limit.
(ii) If the borrower makes a partial prepayment of the outstanding loan balance during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period, the mortgagee shall apply the funds from the partial prepayment in accordance with the Note.
(3) For fixed interest rate HECMs, if the borrower makes a partial prepayment of the outstanding loan balance any time after loan closing and before the contract of insurance is terminated, the mortgagee shall apply the funds from the partial prepayment in accordance with the Note. Any increase in the available principal limit by the amount applied towards the outstanding loan balance shall not be available for the borrower to draw against.
§ 206.21 Interest rate.
(a) Fixed interest rate. A fixed interest rate is agreed upon by the borrower and mortgagee.
(b) Adjustable interest rate. An initial expected average mortgage interest rate, which defines the mortgagee’s margin, is agreed upon by the borrower and mortgagee as of the date of loan closing, or as of the date of rate lock-in, if the expected average mortgage interest rate was locked in prior to closing. The interest rate shall be adjusted in one of two ways depending on the option selected by the borrower, in accordance with paragraphs (b)(1) and (b)(2) of this section. Whenever an interest rate is adjusted, the new interest rate applies to the entire loan balance. The difference between the initial interest rate and the index figure applicable when the firm commitment is issued shall equal the margin used to determine interest rate adjustments. If the expected average mortgage interest rate is locked in prior to closing, the difference between the expected average mortgage interest rate and the value of the appropriate index at the time of rate lock-in shall equal the margin used to determine interest rate adjustments.
(1) Annual adjustable interest rate HECMs. A mortgagee offering an annual adjustable interest rate shall offer a mortgage with an interest rate cap structure that limits the periodic interest rate increases and decreases as follows:
(i) Types of mortgages insurable. The types of adjustable interest rate mortgages that are insurable are those for which the interest rate may be adjusted annually by the mortgagee, beginning after one year from the date of the closing.
(ii) Interest rate index. Changes in the interest rate charged on an adjustable interest rate mortgage must correspond either to changes in the one-year LIBOR or to changes in the weekly average yield on U.S. Treasury securities, adjusted to a constant maturity of one year. Except as otherwise provided in this section, each change in the mortgage interest rate must correspond to the upward and downward change in the index.
(iii) Frequency of interest rate changes. (A) The interest rate adjustments must occur annually, calculated from the date of the closing, except that the first adjustment shall be no sooner than 12 months or later than 18 months.
(B) To set the new interest rate, the mortgagee will determine the change between the initial (i.e., base) index figure and the current index figure, or will add a specific margin to the current index figure. The initial index figure shall be the most recent figure available before the date of mortgage loan origination. The current index figure shall be the most recent index figure available 30 days before the date of each interest rate adjustment.
(iv) Magnitude of changes. The adjustable interest rate mortgage initial contract interest rate shall be agreed upon by the mortgagee and the borrower. The first adjustment to the contract interest rate shall take place in accordance with the schedule set forth under paragraph (b)(1)(iii) of this section. Thereafter, for all annual adjustable interest rate mortgages, the adjustment shall be made annually and shall occur on the anniversary date of the first adjustment, subject to the following conditions and limitations:
(A) For all annual adjustable interest rate HECMs, no single adjustment to the interest rate shall result in a change in either direction of more than two percentage points from the interest rate in effect for the period immediately preceding that adjustment. Index changes in excess of two percentage points may not be carried over for inclusion in an adjustment for a subsequent year. Adjustments in the effective rate of interest over the entire term of the mortgage may not result in a change in either direction of more than five percentage points from the initial contract interest rate.
(B) At each adjustment date for annual adjustable interest rate HECMs, changes in the index interest rate, whether increases or decreases, must be translated into the adjusted mortgage interest rate, except that the mortgage may provide for minimum interest rate change limitations and for minimum increments of interest rate changes.
(2) Monthly adjustable interest rate HECMs. If a mortgage meeting the requirements of paragraph (b)(1) of this section is offered, the mortgagee may also offer a mortgage which provides for monthly adjustments to the interest rate such that changes in the interest rate charged on an adjustable interest rate mortgage correspond either to changes in the one-year LIBOR or to changes in the weekly average yield on U.S. Treasury securities, adjusted to a constant maturity of one year (except as otherwise provided in this section, each change in the mortgage interest rate must correspond to the upward and downward change in the index), or to the one-month CMT index or one-month LIBOR index, and which sets a maximum interest rate that can be charged.
(c) Pre-loan disclosure. (1) At the time the mortgagee provides the borrower with a loan application, a mortgagee shall provide a borrower with a written explanation of all adjustable interest rate features of a mortgage. The explanation must include the following items:
(i) The circumstances under which the rate may increase;
(ii) Any limitations on the increase; and
(iii) The effect of an increase.
(2) Compliance with pre-loan disclosure provisions of 12 CFR part 1026 (Truth in Lending) shall constitute full compliance with paragraph (c)(1) of this section.
(d) Post-loan disclosure. At least 25 days before any adjustment to the interest rate may occur, the mortgagee must advise the borrower of the following:
(1) The current index amount;
(2) The date of publication of the index; and
(3) The new interest rate.
(a) Additional interest based on net appreciated value. Any mortgage for which the mortgagee has chosen the shared premium option (§ 206.107) may provide for shared appreciation. At the time the mortgage becomes due and payable or is paid in full, whichever occurs first, the borrower shall pay an additional amount of interest equal to a percentage of any net appreciated value of the property during the life of the mortgage. The percentage of net appreciated value to be paid to the mortgagee, referred to as the appreciation margin, shall be no more than twenty-five percent, subject to an effective interest rate cap of no more than twenty percent.
(b) Computation of mortgagee share. The mortgagee’s share of net appreciated value is computed as follows:
(1) If the outstanding loan balance at the time the mortgagee’s share of net appreciated value becomes payable is less than the appraised value of the property at the time of loan origination, the mortgagee’s share is calculated by subtracting the appraised value at the time of loan origination from the adjusted sales proceeds (i.e., sales proceeds less transfer costs and capital improvement costs incurred by the borrower, but excluding any liens) and multiplying by the appreciation margin.
(2) If the outstanding loan balance is greater than the appraised value at the time of loan origination but less than the adjusted proceeds, the mortgagee’s share is calculated by subtracting the outstanding loan balance from the adjusted sales proceeds and multiplying by the appreciation margin.
(3) If the outstanding loan balance is greater than the adjusted sales proceeds, the net appreciated value is zero.
(4) If there has been no sale or transfer involving satisfaction of the mortgage at the time the mortgagee’s share of net appreciated value becomes payable, sales proceeds for purposes of this section shall be the appraised value as determined in accordance with procedures approved by the Commissioner.
(c) Effective interest rate. To determine the effective interest rate, the amount of interest which accrued in the twelve months prior to the sale of the property or the prepayment is added to the mortgagee’s share of the net appreciated value. The sum of the mortgagee’s share of the net appreciated value and the interest, when divided by the sum of the outstanding loan balance at the beginning of the twelve-month period prior to sale or prepayment plus the payments to or on behalf of the borrower (but not including interest) in the twelve months prior to the sale or prepayment, shall not exceed an effective interest rate of twenty percent.
(d) Disclosure. At the time the mortgagee provides the borrower with a loan application for a mortgage with shared appreciation, the mortgagee shall disclose to the borrower the principal limit, payments and interest rate which are applicable to a comparable mortgage offered by the mortgagee without shared appreciation.
§ 206.25 Calculation of disbursements.
(a) Initial disbursements – (1) Initial Disbursement Limit – Adjustable Interest Rate HECMs: for term, tenure, line of credit, modified term, and modified tenure payment options:
(i) The mortgagee is responsible for determining the maximum Initial Disbursement Limit.
(ii) The maximum disbursement allowed at closing and during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period is the lesser of:
(A) The greater of an amount established by the Commissioner through notice which shall not be less than 50 percent of the principal limit; or the sum of Mandatory Obligations and a percentage of the principal limit established by the Commissioner through notice which shall not be less than 10 percent; or
(B) The principal limit less the sum of the funds in the LESA for payment beyond the First 12-Month Disbursement Period and the Servicing Fee Set Aside.
(iii) The amount in the First 12-Month Disbursement Period or at any point in time may not exceed the principal limit.
(iv) Mortgagees shall monitor and track all disbursements that occur at loan closing and during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period; the total amount of disbursements shall not exceed the maximum Initial Disbursement Limit.
(v) The borrower shall notify the mortgagee at loan closing of the amount of the additional percentage of the principal limit beyond Mandatory Obligations that the borrower will draw or that will remain available to be drawn during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period. The borrower may not increase or decrease this election after closing.
(2) Borrower’s Advance – Fixed Interest Rate HECMs: for the Single Lump Sum payment option:
(i) The mortgagee is responsible for determining the maximum Borrower’s Advance.
(ii) The disbursement shall only be taken at the time of closing and the maximum disbursement shall not exceed the lesser of:
(A) The greater of an amount established by the Commissioner through notice which shall not be less than 50 percent of the principal limit; or the sum of Mandatory Obligations and a percentage of the principal limit established by the Commissioner through notice which shall not be less than 10 percent; or
(B) The principal limit less the sum of the funds in the LESA for payment beyond the First 12-Month Disbursement Period and the Servicing Fee Set Aside.
(iii) The borrower shall notify the mortgagee at loan closing of the amount of the additional percentage of the principal limit beyond Mandatory Obligations that the borrower will draw. The borrower may not increase or decrease this election after closing.
(b) Mandatory Obligations for traditional and refinance transactions include:
(1) Initial MIP under § 206.105(a);
(2) Loan origination fee;
(3) HECM counseling fee;
(4) Reasonable and customary amounts, but not more than the amount actually paid by the mortgagee for any of the following items:
(i) Recording fees and recording taxes, or other charges incident to the recordation of the insured mortgage;
(ii) Credit report;
(iii) Survey, if required by the mortgagee or the borrower;
(iv) Title examination;
(v) Mortgagee’s title insurance;
(vi) Fees paid to an appraiser for the initial appraisal of the property; and
(vii) Flood certifications.
(5) Repair Set Asides;
(6) Repair administration fee;
(7) Delinquent Federal debt;
(8) Amounts required to discharge any existing liens on the property;
(9) Customary fees and charges for warranties, inspections, surveys, and engineer certifications;
(10) Funds to pay contractors who performed repairs as a condition of closing, in accordance with standard FHA requirements for repairs required by the appraiser;
(11) Property tax and flood and hazard insurance payments required by the mortgagee to be paid at loan closing;
(12) Property charges not included in paragraph (b)(11) of this section and which are scheduled for payment during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period, as follows:
(i) Adjustable Interest Rate HECMs. (A) The total amount of property charge payments scheduled for payment from the borrower authorized option under § 206.205(d) during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period;
(B) The total amount of semi-annual disbursements scheduled to be made during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period to the borrower from a Partially-Funded LESA; or
(C) The total amount of property charges scheduled for payment during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period from a Fully-Funded LESA.
(D) Mortgagees shall use the actual insurance premium and actual tax amount; if a new tax bill has not been issued, the mortgagee must use the prior year’s amount multiplied by 1.04 or an amount set by the Commissioner through notice.
(ii) Fixed Interest Rate HECMs. (A) The total amount of property charges scheduled for payment during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period from a Fully-Funded LESA.
(B) Mortgagees shall use the actual insurance premium and actual tax amount; if a new tax bill has not been issued, the mortgagee must use the prior year’s amount multiplied by 1.04 or an amount set by the Commissioner through notice;
(13) Required pay-off of debt not secured by the property, as defined by the Commissioner through
(14) Other charges as authorized by the Commissioner through notice.
(c) Mandatory Obligations for HECM for Purchase transactions include:
(1) Initial MIP under § 206.105(a);
(2) Loan origination fee;
(3) HECM counseling fee:
(4) Reasonable and customary amounts, but not more than the amount actually paid by the mortgagee for any of the following items:
(i) Recording fees and recording taxes, or other charges incident to the recordation of the insured mortgage;
(ii) Credit report;
(iii) Survey, if required by the mortgagee or the borrower;
(iv) Title examination;
(v) Mortgagee’s title insurance;
(vi) Fees paid to an appraiser for the initial appraisal of the property; and
(vii) Flood certifications.
(5) Delinquent Federal debt;
(6) Fees and charges for real estate purchase contracts, warranties, inspections, surveys, and engineer certifications;
(7) The amount of the principal that is advanced towards the purchase price of the subject property;
(8) Property tax and flood and hazard insurance payments required by the mortgagee to be paid at loan closing;
(9) Property charges not included in paragraph (c)(8) of this section and which are scheduled for payment during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period, as follows:
(i) Adjustable Interest Rate HECMs. (A) The total amount of property charge payments scheduled for payment from the borrower authorized option under § 206.205(d) during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period;
(B) The total amount of semi-annual disbursements scheduled to be made during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period to the borrower from a Partially-Funded LESA; or
(C) The total amount of property charges scheduled for payment during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period from a Fully-Funded LESA.
(D) Mortgagees shall use the actual insurance premium and actual tax amount; if a new tax bill has not been issued, the mortgagee must use the prior year’s amount multiplied by 1.04 or an amount set by the Commissioner through notice.
(ii) Fixed Interest Rate HECMs. (A) The total amount of property charges scheduled for payment during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period from a Fully-Funded LESA.
(B) Mortgagees shall use the actual insurance premium and actual tax amount; if a new tax bill has not been issued, the mortgagee must use the prior year’s amount multiplied by 1.04 or an amount set by the Commissioner through notice;
(10) Required pay-off of debt not secured by the property, as defined by the Commissioner through
(11) Other charges as authorized by the Commissioner through notice.
(d) Timing of disbursements. Mortgage proceeds may not be disbursed until after the expiration of the 3-day rescission period under 12 CFR part 1026, if applicable.
(e) Monthly disbursements – term option. (1) Using factors provided by the Commissioner, the mortgagee shall calculate the monthly disbursement so that the sum of paragraphs (e)(1)(i) or (e)(1)(ii) of this section added to paragraphs (e)(1)(iii), (e)(1)(iv), and (e)(1)(v) of this section shall be equal to the principal limit at the end of the payment term.
(i) An initial disbursement under paragraph (a) of this section plus any initial servicing charge set aside under § 206.19(f)(3); or
(ii) The outstanding loan balance at the time of a change in payment option in accordance with § 206.26, plus any remaining servicing charge set aside under § 206.19(f)(3); and
(iii) The amount of the principal limit set aside in accordance with § 206.19(f) which is not included in the amount set aside in paragraphs (e)(1)(i) or (e)(1)(ii) of this section;
(iv) All MIP or monthly charges due to the Commissioner in lieu of mortgage insurance premiums due through the payment term; and
(v) All interest through the remainder of the payment term. The expected average mortgage interest rate shall be used for this purpose.
(2) The mortgagee shall make all monthly disbursements through the payment term even if the outstanding loan balance exceeds the principal limit because the actual average mortgage interest rate exceeds the expected average mortgage interest rate unless the HECM becomes due and payable under § 206.27(c). In the event of a deferral of due and payable status in accordance with § 206.27(c)(3), disbursements shall cease immediately upon the death of the borrower and no further disbursements are permissible.
(3) Mortgagees shall ensure that term monthly disbursements made to the borrower during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period do not exceed the Initial Disbursement Limit. If the sum of disbursements made during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period would exceed the Initial Disbursement Limit for that time period, the mortgagee shall decrease the monthly disbursements during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period to conform with the Initial Disbursement Limit; upon conclusion of the First 12-Month Disbursement Period, the borrower may request a payment plan recalculation.
(4) If the borrower makes a partial prepayment of the outstanding loan balance during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period, the mortgagee shall apply the funds from the partial prepayment in accordance with the Note.
(5) If the mortgagee receives repayment from insurance or condemnation proceeds after restoration or repair of the damaged property, the available principal limit and outstanding loan balance shall be reduced by the amount of such payments.
(f) Monthly disbursements – tenure option. (1) Monthly disbursements under the tenure payment option shall be calculated as if the number of months in the payment term equals 100 minus the lesser of the age of the youngest borrower or 95, multiplied by 12, but payments shall continue until the mortgage becomes due and payable under § 206.27(c), except that in the event that payments would exceed any maximum mortgage amount stated in the security instrument or would otherwise exceed the amount secured by the first lien, in accordance with § 206.19(h) payments will cease immediately; payments may be reinstated only in the event a new Note and mortgage are executed in accordance with § 206.27(b)(10); and in the event of a deferral of due and payable status in accordance with § 206.27(c)(3) payments will cease immediately upon the death of the borrower.
(2) Mortgagees shall ensure that tenure monthly disbursements made to the borrower during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period do not exceed the Initial Disbursement Limit. If the sum of disbursements made during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period would exceed the Initial Disbursement Limit for that time period, the mortgagee shall decrease the monthly disbursements during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period to conform with the maximum Initial Disbursement Limit; upon conclusion of the First 12-Month Disbursement Period, the borrower may request a payment plan recalculation.
(3) If the borrower makes a partial prepayment of the outstanding loan balance during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period, the mortgagee shall apply the funds from the partial prepayment in accordance with the Note.
(4) If the mortgagee receives repayment from insurance or condemnation proceeds after restoration or repair of the damaged property, the available principal limit and outstanding loan balance shall be reduced by the amount of such payments.
(g) Line of credit separately or with monthly disbursements. If the borrower has a line of credit, separately or combined with the term or tenure payment option, the principal limit is divided into an amount set aside for servicing charges under § 206.19(f)(3), an amount equal to the line of credit (including any portion of the principal limit set aside for repairs or property charges under § 206.19(f)(1) or (2)), and the remaining amount of the principal limit (if any). The line of credit amount increases at the same rate as the total principal limit increases under § 206.3. The sum of disbursements made during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period shall not exceed the Initial Disbursement Limit. If a requested disbursement would exceed the Initial Disbursement Limit, the mortgagee may make a partial disbursement to the borrower for the amount that will not exceed the limit. Upon the conclusion of the First 12-Month Disbursement Period, the borrower may request subsequent disbursements up to the available principal limit.
(h) Single Lump Sum payment option. (1) Under the Single Lump Sum payment option, the Borrower’s Advance shall be made by the mortgagee to the borrower in an amount that does not exceed the maximum allowable Borrower’s Advance under paragraph (a)(2) of this section.
(2) If the borrower makes a partial prepayment of the outstanding loan balance any time after loan closing and before the contract of insurance is terminated, the mortgagee shall apply the funds from the partial prepayment in accordance with the Note.
(i) Payment of MIP and interest. At the end of each month, including the first month, interest accrued during that month shall be added to the outstanding loan balance. Where the first month is a partial month, a prorated amount of interest shall be added. Monthly MIP, which will accrue from the closing date, shall be added to the outstanding loan balance beginning with the first day of the second month after closing when paid to the Commissioner.
(j) Mortgagee late charge. The mortgagee shall pay a late charge to the borrower for any late disbursement. If the mortgagee does not mail or electronically transfer a scheduled monthly disbursement to the borrower on the first business day of the month or make a line of credit disbursement within 5 business days of the date the mortgagee received the request, the late charge shall be 10 percent of the entire amount that should have been paid to the borrower for that month or as a result of that request. In no event shall the total late charge exceed five hundred dollars. For each additional day that the borrower does not receive payment, the mortgagee shall pay interest at the mortgage interest rate on the late payment. Any late charge and interest shall be paid from the mortgagee’s funds and shall not be added to the outstanding loan balance.
(k) No minimum payments. A mortgagee shall not require, as a condition of providing a loan secured by a mortgage insured under this part, that the monthly payments under the term or tenure payment option or draws under the line of credit payment option exceed a minimum amount established by the mortgagee.
§ 206.26 Change in payment option.
(a) General. The payment option may be changed as provided in this section.
(b) Borrower request for payment plan change – (1) Adjustable Interest Rate HECMs. (i) During the First 12-Month Disbursement Period, no payment plan change shall cause disbursements to exceed the Initial Disbursement Limit.
(ii) After the First 12-Month Disbursement Period, as long as the outstanding loan balance is less than the principal limit, a borrower may request a recalculation of the current payment option, a change from any payment option to another available payment option or a disbursement of any amount (not to exceed the difference between the principal limit and the sum of the outstanding loan balance and any set asides for repairs, servicing charges or property charges). A mortgage will continue to bear interest at an adjustable interest rate as agreed between the mortgagee and the borrower at loan origination. The mortgagee shall recalculate any future monthly payments in accordance with § 206.25.
(iii) Fee for change in payment. The mortgagee may charge a fee, not to exceed an amount determined by the Commissioner, whenever there is a payment plan change or whenever payments are recalculated.
(iv) Limitations. The Commissioner may, through notice, establish limitations on the frequency of payment plan changes, a minimum notice period that a borrower must provide in order to make a request under paragraph (b)(1)(ii) of this section, or other limitations on payment plan change requests by the borrower.
(2) Fixed Interest Rate HECMs. Borrowers may not request a change in payment option.
(c) Change due to initial repairs. When initial repairs after closing under § 206.47 are required using a Repair Set Aside, mortgagees shall comply with the following:
(1) Adjustable Interest Rate HECMs. (i) If repairs after closing under § 206.47 are completed without using all of the funds set aside for repairs, the mortgagee shall transfer the remaining amount to a line of credit, modified term, or modified tenure payment option and inform the borrower of the sum available to be drawn.
(ii) If repairs after closing under § 206.47 cannot be completed with the funds set aside for repairs, the mortgagee may advance additional funds to complete repairs from an existing line of credit. If a line of credit is not sufficient to make the advance or if no line of credit exists, future monthly disbursements shall be recalculated for use as a line of credit in accordance with § 206.25.
(iii) If repairs are not completed when required by the mortgage, the mortgagee shall stop monthly payments and the mortgage shall convert to the line of credit payment option. Until the repairs are completed, the mortgagee shall make no line of credit disbursements except as needed to pay for repairs required by the mortgage.
(2) Fixed Interest Rate HECMs. No unused set aside funds shall be made available to the borrower, except that a borrower may be reimbursed for the cost of repair materials (not including labor), in accordance with § 206.47, under conditions established by the Commissioner.
§ 206.27 Mortgage provisions.
(a) Form. The mortgage shall be in a form meeting the requirements of the Commissioner.
(b) Provisions. The terms of the mortgage shall contain an explanation of how payments will be made to the borrower, how interest will be charged, and when the mortgage will be due and payable. The mortgage shall include a provision deferring the due and payable status that occurs because of the death of the last surviving borrower for an Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse. It shall also contain provisions designed to ensure compliance with this part and provisions on the following additional matters:
(1) Disbursements by the mortgagee under the term or tenure payment options shall be mailed to the borrower or electronically transferred to an account of the borrower on the first business day of each month beginning with the first month after closing. Disbursements under the line of credit payment option shall be mailed to the borrower or electronically transferred to an account of the borrower within five business days after the mortgagee has received a written request for disbursement by the borrower. In accordance with § 206.55, in no event may disbursements continue during a Deferral Period.
(2) The borrower shall insure all improvements on the property that serves as collateral for the HECM whether in existence at the time of origination or subsequently erected, against any hazards, casualties, and contingencies, including but not limited to fire and flood, for which the mortgagee requires insurance. Such insurance shall be maintained in the amount and for the period of time that is necessary to protect the mortgagee’s investment. Whether or not the mortgagee imposes a flood insurance requirement, the borrower shall at a minimum insure all improvements on the property, whether in existence at the time of origination or subsequently erected, against loss by floods to the extent required by the Commissioner. If the mortgagee imposes insurance requirements, all insurance shall be carried with companies acceptable to the mortgagee, and the insurance policies and any renewals shall be held by the mortgagee and shall include loss payable clauses in favor of and in a form acceptable to the mortgagee.
(3) The borrower shall not participate in a real estate tax deferral program or permit any liens to be recorded against the property, unless such liens are subordinate to the insured mortgage and, if applicable, any second mortgage held by the Commissioner.
(4) A mortgage may be prepaid in full or in part in accordance with § 206.209.
(5) The borrower must keep the property in good repair.
(6) The borrower must provide for the payment of property charges in accordance with § 206.205.
(7) The payment of monthly MIP may be added to the outstanding principal balance.
(8) The borrower shall have no personal liability for payment of the outstanding loan balance. The mortgagee shall enforce the debt only through sale of the property. The mortgagee shall not be permitted to obtain a deficiency judgment against the borrower if the mortgage is foreclosed.
(9) If the mortgage is assigned to the Commissioner under § 206.121(b), the borrower shall not be liable for any difference between the insurance benefits paid to the mortgagee and the outstanding loan balance including accrued interest, owed by the borrower at the time of the assignment.
(10) If State law limits the first lien status of the mortgage as originally executed and recorded to a maximum amount of debt or a maximum number of years, the borrower shall agree to execute any additional documents required by the mortgagee and approved by the Commissioner to extend the first lien status to an additional amount of debt and an additional number of years and to cause any other liens to be removed or subordinated.
(c) Date the mortgage comes due and payable. (1) The mortgage shall state that the outstanding loan balance will be due and payable in full if a borrower dies and the property is not the principal residence of at least one surviving borrower, except that the due and payable status shall be deferred in accordance with paragraph (c)(3) of this section if the requirements of the Deferral Period are met; or if a borrower conveys all of his or her title in the property and no other borrower retains title to the property. For purposes of the preceding sentence, a borrower retains title in the property if the borrower continues to hold title to any part of the property in fee simple, as a leasehold interest as set forth in § 206.45(a), or as a life estate.
(2) The mortgage shall state that the outstanding loan balance shall be due and payable in full, upon approval of the Commissioner, if any of the following occur:
(i) The property ceases to be the principal residence of a borrower for reasons other than death and the property is not the principal residence of at least one other borrower;
(ii) For a period of longer than 12 consecutive months, a borrower fails to occupy the property because of physical or mental illness and the property is not the principal residence of at least one other borrower;
(iii) The borrower does not provide for the payment of property charges in accordance with § 206.205; or
(iv) An obligation of the borrower under the mortgage is not performed.
(3) Deferral of due and payable status. The mortgage documents shall contain a provision deferring due and payable status, called the Deferral Period, for an Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse until the death of the last Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse or the requirements of the Deferral Period in § 206.55 cease to be met and have not been cured as provided for in § 206.57.
(d) Second mortgage to Commissioner. Unless otherwise provided by the Commissioner, a second mortgage to secure any payments by the Commissioner as provided in § 206.121(c) must be given to the Commissioner before a Mortgage Insurance Certificate is issued for the mortgage. If the Commissioner does not require a second mortgage to be given to the Commissioner prior to the issuance of a Mortgage Insurance Certificate, the Commissioner may require a second mortgage to be given to the Commissioner at a later day in order to secure payments by the Commissioner as provided in § 206.121(c).
§ 206.31 Allowable charges and fees.
(a) Fees at closing. The mortgagee may collect, either in cash at the time of closing or through an initial payment under the mortgage, the following charges and fees incurred in connection with the origination, processing, and closing of the mortgage loan:
(1) Loan Origination Fee. Mortgagees may charge a loan origination fee and may use such fee to pay for services performed by a sponsored third-party originator. The loan origination fee limit shall be the greater of $2,500 or two percent of the maximum claim amount of $200,000, plus one percent of any portion of the maximum claim amount that is greater than $200,000. Mortgagees may accept a lower origination fee. Mortgagees may pay fees for services performed by a sponsored third-party originator and these fees may be included as part of the loan origination fee. The total amount of the loan origination fee may not exceed $6,000, except that the Commissioner may through notice adjust the maximum limit in accordance with the annual percentage increase in the Consumer Price Index of the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the Department of Labor in increments of $500 only when the percentage increase in such index, when applied to the maximum origination fee, produces dollar increases that exceed $500. The loan origination fee may be fully financed with the mortgage.
(2) Reasonable and customary amounts. Reasonable and customary amounts, but not more than the amount actually paid by the mortgagee, for any of the following items:
(i) Recording fees and recording taxes, or other charges incident to the recordation of the insured mortgage;
(ii) Credit report;
(iii) Survey, if required by the mortgagee or the borrower;
(iv) Title examination;
(v) Mortgagee’s title insurance;
(vi) Fees paid to an appraiser for the initial appraisal of the property;
(vii) Flood certifications; and
(viii) Such other charges as may be authorized by the Commissioner.
(b) Repair administration fee. If the property requires repairs after closing in order to meet FHA requirements, the mortgagee may collect a fee for each occurrence as compensation for administrative duties relating to repair work pursuant to § 206.47(c) and (d), not to exceed the greater of one and one-half percent of the amount advanced for the repairs or fifty dollars. The mortgagee shall collect the repair fee by adding it to the outstanding loan balance.
§ 206.32 No outstanding unpaid obligations.
In order for a mortgage to be eligible under this part, a borrower must establish to the satisfaction of the mortgagee that after the initial payment of loan proceeds under § 206.25(a), there will be no outstanding or unpaid obligations incurred by the borrower in connection with the mortgage transaction, except for mortgage servicing charges permitted under § 206.207(b) and any future Repair Set Aside established pursuant to § 206.19(f)(1); and the initial disbursement will not be used for any payment to or on behalf of an estate planning service firm.
Eligible Borrowers
§ 206.33 Age of borrower.
The youngest borrower shall be 62 years of age or older at the time of loan closing.
§ 206.34 Limitation on number of mortgages.
(a) Once a borrower has obtained an insured mortgage under this part, the borrower is eligible to obtain future insured HECM loan financing if the existing HECM is satisfied prior to or at the closing of the new HECM, or the borrower provides legal documentation, in a manner acceptable to the Commissioner, evidencing release of the borrower’s financial obligation to satisfy the existing HECM.
(b) Current HECM borrowers that plan to sell their existing residence and use the HECM for Purchase program to obtain a new principal residence must pay off the existing FHA-insured mortgage before the HECM for Purchase mortgage can be insured.
§ 206.35 Title of property which is security for HECM.
(a) A mortgagor is not required to be a borrower; however, any borrower is required to be on title to the property which serves as collateral for the HECM, and is therefore, by definition, also a mortgagor.
(b) The mortgagor shall hold title to the entire property which is the security for the mortgage. If there are multiple mortgagors, all the mortgagors must collectively hold title to the entire property which is the security for the mortgage. If one or more mortgagors hold a life estate in the property, for purposes of this section only, the term “mortgagor” shall include each holder of a future interest in the property (remainder or reversion) who has executed the mortgage.
(c) If Non-Borrowing Spouses and non-borrowing owners of the property will continue to hold title to the property which serves as collateral for the HECM, such Non-Borrowing Spouses and non-borrowing owners must sign the mortgage as mortgagors, evidencing their commitment of the property as security for the mortgage.
(d) All Non-Borrowing Spouses and non-borrowing owners shall sign a certification that:
(1) Consents to their spouse or other borrowing owner obtaining the HECM;
(2) Acknowledges the terms and conditions of the mortgage; and
(3) Acknowledges that the property will serve as collateral for the HECM as evidenced by mortgage lien(s).
§ 206.36 Seasoning requirements for existing non-HECM liens.
(a) The Commissioner may establish, through notice, seasoning requirements for existing non-HECM liens. Such seasoning requirements shall not prohibit the payoff of existing non-HECM liens using HECM proceeds if the liens have been in place for longer than 12 months prior to the HECM closing or if the liens have resulted in cash to the borrower in an amount of $500 or less, whether at closing or through cumulative draws prior to the date of the HECM closing.
(b) Mortgagees must provide documentation satisfactory to the Commissioner as established by notice that the seasoning requirement was met.
(c) Home Equity Lines of Credit. The borrower may pay off, at closing, a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) that does not meet seasoning requirements from borrower funds, the HECM funds, or a combination of HECM funds and borrower funds, as long as the draw from HECM funds does not exceed the percentage approved by the Commissioner under the authority of § 206.25(a).
§ 206.37 Credit standing.
(a) Each borrower shall have a general credit standing satisfactory to the Commissioner.
(b) Required Financial Assessment – (1) Requirement for Financial Assessment prior to loan approval. Prior to loan approval, the mortgagee shall assess the financial capacity of the borrower to comply with the terms of the mortgage and evaluate whether the HECM is a sustainable solution for the borrower, in accordance with instructions established by the Commissioner through notice. The Financial Assessment shall consider the borrower’s credit history, cash flow and residual income, extenuating circumstances, and compensating factors.
(i) Credit history. In accordance with FHA guidelines in existence at the time of FHA Case Number assignment, mortgagees shall conduct an in-depth credit history analysis to determine if the borrower has demonstrated the willingness to meet his or her financial obligations.
(ii) Cash flow and residual income analysis. In accordance with FHA guidelines in existence at the time of FHA Case Number assignment, mortgagees shall conduct a cash flow and residual income analysis to determine the capacity of the borrower to meet his or her documented financial obligations with his or her documented income.
(iii) Extenuating circumstances. Where the borrower’s credit history does not meet the criteria set by the mortgagee based on FHA guidelines in existence at the time of FHA Case Number assignment, mortgagees shall consider and document, as part of the Financial Assessment, extenuating circumstances that led to the credit issues.
(iv) Compensating factors. The mortgagee shall document and identify in the Financial Assessment any considered compensating factors.
(2) Completion and approval of Financial Assessment. The Financial Assessment shall be completed and approved by a DE Underwriter registered in HUD’s system of record by the underwriting mortgagee.
(3) Nondiscrimination. (i) The Financial Assessment shall be conducted in a uniform manner that shall not discriminate because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, disability, marital status, actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity, source of income of the borrower, location of the property, or because the applicant has in good faith exercised any right under the Consumer Credit Protection Act (15 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.).
(ii) The Financial Assessment shall be conducted in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, including but not limited to, the following:
(A) Fair Housing Act (42 U.S.C. 3601 et seq.);
(B) Fair Credit Reporting Act (15 U.S.C. 1681 et seq.);
(C) Equal Credit Opportunity Act (15 U.S.C. 1691 et seq.); and
(D) Regulation B (12 CFR part 1002).
§ 206.39 Principal residence.
(a) The property must be the principal residence of each borrower, and if applicable, Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse, at closing.
(b) HECM for Purchase. For HECM for Purchase transactions, each borrower, and if applicable, Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse, must occupy the property within 60 days from the date of closing.
§ 206.40 Disclosure, verification and certifications.
(a) Disclosure and certification of Social Security and Employer Identification Numbers – (1) Borrower. The borrower must meet the requirements for the disclosure and verification of Social Security and Employer Identification Numbers, as provided by part 200, subpart U, of this chapter.
(2) Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse. The Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse shall comply with the requirements for disclosure and verification of Social Security and Employer Identification Numbers by borrowers in paragraph (a)(1) of this section.
(b) Certifications. Each borrower and each Non-Borrowing Spouse shall provide all required certifications to HUD and the mortgagee, as required by the Commissioner.
(c) Designation of alternate individual. At the time of origination, the mortgagee shall request that the borrower designate an alternate individual for the purpose of communicating with the mortgagee if the mortgagee has not been able to reach the borrower. The designation of the alternate individual is at the discretion of the borrower. If the mortgagee is unable to make contact or communicate with the borrower for any reason, including death or incapacitation, the mortgagee shall communicate with the alternate individual, if one has been designated by the borrower.
§ 206.41 Counseling.
(a) List provided. At the time of the initial contact with the prospective borrower, the mortgagee shall give the borrower a list of the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of HECM counselors and their employing agencies, which have been approved by the Commissioner, in accordance with subpart E of this part, as qualified and able to provide the information described in paragraph (b) of this section. The borrower, any Eligible or Ineligible Non-Borrowing Spouse, and any non-borrowing owner must receive counseling.
(b) Information to be provided. (1) A HECM counselor must discuss with the borrower:
(i) The information required by section 255(f) of the NHA;
(ii) Whether the borrower has signed a contract or agreement with an estate planning service firm that requires, or purports to require, the borrower to pay a fee on or after closing that may exceed amounts permitted by the Commissioner or this part;
(iii) If such a contract has been signed under paragraph (b)(1)(ii) of this section, the extent to which services under the contract may not be needed or may be available at nominal or no cost from other sources, including the mortgagee; and
(iv) Any other requirements determined by the Commissioner.
(2) If the HECM borrower has an Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse, in addition to meeting the requirements of paragraph (b)(1) of this section, a HECM counselor shall discuss with the borrower and Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse:
(i) The requirement that the Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse must obtain ownership of the property or other legal right to remain in the property for life, upon the death of the last surviving borrower;
(ii) A failure to obtain ownership or other legal right to remain in the property for life will result in the HECM becoming due and payable and the Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse will not receive the benefit of the Deferral Period;
(iii) The requirement that the property must be the principal residence of the Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse prior to and after the death of the borrowing spouse;
(iv) The requirement that the Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse fulfills all obligations of the mortgage, including the payment of property charges and upkeep of the property; and
(v) Any other requirements determined by the Commissioner.
(3) If the HECM borrower has an Ineligible Non-Borrowing Spouse, in addition to meeting the requirements of paragraph (b)(1) of this section, a HECM counselor shall discuss with the borrower and Ineligible Non-Borrowing Spouse:
(i) The Deferral Period will not be applicable;
(ii) The HECM will become due and payable upon the death of the last surviving borrower; and
(iii) Any other requirements determined by the Commissioner.
(c) Certificate. The HECM counselor will provide the borrower with a certificate stating that the borrower, Non-Borrowing Spouse, and non-borrowing owner, as applicable, has received counseling. The borrower shall provide the mortgagee with a physical copy of the certificate.
§ 206.43 Information to borrower.
(a) Disclosure of costs of obtaining mortgage. The mortgagee shall ensure that the borrower has received full disclosure of all costs of obtaining the mortgage. The mortgagee shall ask the borrower about any costs or other obligations that the borrower has incurred to obtain the mortgage, as defined by the Commissioner, in addition to providing any disclosures required by law. The mortgagee shall clearly state to the borrower which charges are required to obtain the mortgage and which are not required to obtain the mortgage.
(b) Lump sum disbursement. (1) If the borrower requests that at least 25 percent of the principal limit amount (after deducting amounts excluded in the following sentence) be disbursed at closing to the borrower (or as otherwise permitted by § 206.25), the mortgagee must make sufficient inquiry at closing to confirm that the borrower will not use any part of the amount disbursed for payments to or on behalf of an estate planning service firm, with an explanation of § 206.32 as necessary or appropriate.
(2) This paragraph does not apply to any part of the principal limit used for the following:
(i) Initial MIP under § 206.105(a) or fees and charges allowed under § 206.31(a) paid by the mortgagee from mortgage proceeds instead of by the borrower in cash; and
(ii) Amounts set aside in accordance with § 206.19(f) for repairs under § 206.47, for property charges under § 206.205, or for servicing charges under § 206.207(b).
§ 206.44 Monetary investment for HECM for Purchase program.
(a) Monetary investment. At closing, HECM for Purchase borrowers shall provide a monetary investment that will be applied to satisfy the difference between the principal limit and the sale price for the property, plus any HECM loan-related fees that are not financed into the loan, minus the amount of the earnest deposit.
(b) Funding sources. To satisfy the required monetary investment, borrowers may use:
(1) Cash on hand;
(2) Cash from the sale or liquidation of the borrower’s assets;
(3) HECM mortgage proceeds; or
(4) Other approved funding sources as determined by the Commissioner through notice.
(c) Interested party contributions. (1) The following interested party contributions are permissible:
(i) Fees required to be paid by a seller under state or local law;
(ii) Fees customarily paid by a seller in the subject property locality; and
(iii) The purchase of the Home Warranty policy by the seller.
(2) The Commissioner may define additional permissible interested party contributions and impose requirements for permissible interested party contributions through a notice in the
Eligible Properties
§ 206.45 Eligible properties.
(a) Title. A mortgage must be on real estate held in fee simple; or on a leasehold that is under a lease with a duration lasting until the later of: 99 years, if such lease is renewable; or the actuarial life expectancy of the mortgagor plus a number of years specified by the Commissioner, which shall not be more than 99 years. The mortgagee shall obtain a title insurance policy satisfactory to the Commissioner. If the Commissioner determines that title insurance for reverse mortgages is not available for reasonable rates in a state, then the Commissioner may specify other acceptable forms of title evidence in lieu of title insurance.
(b) Type of property. The property shall include a dwelling designed principally as a residence for one family or such additional families as the Commissioner shall determine. A condominium unit designed for one-family occupancy shall also be an eligible property.
(c) Borrower and mortgagee requirement for maintaining flood insurance coverage – (1) In general. (i) The requirements of this paragraph (c) apply if a mortgage is to cover property improvements that:
(A) Are located in an area designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as a floodplain area having special flood hazards;
(B) Are otherwise determined by the Commissioner to be subject to a flood hazard; or
(C) Are not otherwise covered by the flood insurance standard for condominium projects established under 24 CFR 203.43b(d)(6)(iii) or (i)(1).
(ii) No mortgage may be insured that covers property improvements located in an area that has been identified by FEMA as an area having special flood hazards, unless the community in which the area is situated is participating in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and flood insurance is obtained by the borrower. Such flood insurance shall be in the form of the standard policy issued under the NFIP or private flood insurance as defined in paragraph (c)(6) of this section. Such requirement for flood insurance shall be effective one year after the date of notification by FEMA to the chief executive officer of a flood prone community that such community has been identified as having special flood hazards.
(iii) For purposes of this section, property improvement means a dwelling and related structures/equipment essential to the value of the property and subject to flood damage.
(2) Flood insurance obligation. During such time as the mortgage is insured, the borrower and mortgagee shall be obligated, by a special condition to be included in the mortgage commitment, to obtain and to maintain flood insurance coverage under either the NFIP or equivalent private flood insurance coverage as defined in paragraph (c)(6) of this section on the property improvements. The mortgagee shall be named as the loss payee for flood insurance benefits. A mortgagee may determine that a private flood insurance policy meets the definition of private flood insurance in this section, without further review of the policy, if the compliance aid statement provided in 24 CFR 203.16a(c) is included within the policy or as an endorsement to the policy.
(3) Duration and amount of coverage. The flood insurance must be maintained during such time as the mortgage is insured in an amount at least equal to the lowest of the following:
(i) 100 percent replacement cost of the insurable value of the improvements, which consists of the development or project cost less estimated land cost; or
(ii) The maximum amount of the NFIP insurance available with respect to the particular type of the property; or
(iii) The outstanding principal balance of the loan.
(4) Private flood insurance defined. The term “private flood insurance” means an insurance policy that:
(i) Is issued by an insurance company that is:
(A) Licensed, admitted, or otherwise approved to engage in the business of insurance in the State or jurisdiction in which the insured building is located, by the insurance regulator of that State or jurisdiction; or
(B) In the case of a policy of difference in conditions, multiple peril, all risk, or other blanket coverage insuring nonresidential commercial property, is recognized, or not disapproved, as a surplus lines insurer by the insurance regulator of the State or jurisdiction where the property to be insured is located;
(ii) Provides flood insurance coverage that is at least as broad as the coverage provided under a standard flood insurance policy under the National Flood Insurance Program for the same type of property, including when considering deductibles, exclusions, and conditions offered by the insurer. To be at least as broad as the coverage provided under a standard flood insurance policy under the National Flood Insurance Program, the policy must, at a minimum:
(A) Define the term “flood” to include the events defined as a “flood” in a standard flood insurance policy under the National Flood Insurance Program;
(B) Contain the coverage specified in a standard flood insurance policy under the National Flood Insurance Program, including that relating to building property coverage; personal property coverage, if purchased by the insured mortgagor(s); other coverages; and increased cost of compliance coverage;
(C) Contain deductibles no higher than the specified maximum, and include similar non-applicability provisions, as under a standard flood insurance policy under the National Flood Insurance Program, for any total policy coverage amount up to the maximum available under the NFIP at the time the policy is provided to the lender;
(D) Provide coverage for direct physical loss caused by a flood and may only exclude other causes of loss that are excluded in a standard flood insurance policy under the National Flood Insurance Program. Any exclusions other than those in a standard flood insurance policy under the National Flood Insurance Program may pertain only to coverage that is in addition to the amount and type of coverage that could be provided by a standard flood insurance policy under the National Flood Insurance Program or have the effect of providing broader coverage to the policyholder; and
(E) Not contain conditions that narrow the coverage provided in a standard flood insurance policy under the National Flood Insurance Program;
(iii) Includes all of the following:
(A) A requirement for the insurer to give 45 days’ written notice of cancellation or non-renewal of flood insurance coverage to:
(1) The insured;
(2) The mortgagee, if any; and
(3) Federal Housing Administration (FHA), in cases where the mortgagee has assigned the loan to FHA in exchange for claim payment;
(B) Information about the availability of flood insurance coverage under the National Flood Insurance Program;
(C) A mortgage interest clause similar to the clause contained in a standard flood insurance policy under the National Flood Insurance Program; and
(D) A provision requiring an insured to file suit not later than 1 year after the date of a written denial of all or part of a claim under the policy; and
(iv) Contains cancellation provisions that are as restrictive as the provisions contained in a standard flood insurance policy under the National Flood Insurance Program.
(d) Lead-based paint poisoning prevention. If the appraiser of a dwelling constructed prior to 1978 finds defective paint surfaces, 24 CFR 200.810(d) shall apply unless the borrower certifies that no child who is less than six years of age resides or is expected to reside in the dwelling, except that any reference to “mortgagor” in 24 CFR 200.810(d) shall mean “borrower” for purposes of this paragraph.
(e) Restrictions on conveyance. The property must be freely marketable. Conveyance of the property may only be restricted as permitted under 24 CFR 203.41 or 24 CFR 234.66 and this part, except that a right of first refusal to purchase a unit in a condominium project is permitted if the right is held by the condominium association for the project.
(f) Location of property. The mortgaged property shall be located within the United States, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Virgin Islands, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and American Samoa. The mortgaged property, if otherwise acceptable to the Commissioner, may be located in any location where the housing standards meet the requirements of the Commissioner.
(g) HECM for Purchase. (1) A HECM for Purchase transaction is where title to the property is transferred to the HECM borrower and, at the time of closing, the HECM first and second liens, if applicable, will be the only liens against the property.
(2) Properties are eligible for FHA insurance under the HECM for Purchase program when construction is completed and the property is habitable, as evidenced by the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy or its equivalent, by the local jurisdiction.
§ 206.47 Property standards; repair work.
(a) Need for repairs. Properties must meet the applicable property requirements of the Commissioner in order to be eligible. Properties that do not meet the property requirements must be repaired in order to ensure that the repaired property will serve as adequate security for the insured mortgage.
(b) Assurance that repairs are made. The mortgage may be closed before the repair work is completed if the Commissioner estimates that the cost of the remaining repair work will not exceed 15 percent of the maximum claim amount and the mortgage contains provisions approved by the Commissioner concerning payment for the repairs.
(c) Reimbursement to contractor. When repair work is completed after closing by a contractor, the mortgagee shall cause one or more inspections of the property to be made by an inspector or other qualified individual acceptable to the Commissioner in order to ensure that the repair work is satisfactory, and prior to the release of funds from the Repair Set Aside. The mortgagee shall hold back a portion of the contract price attributable to the work done before each interim release of funds, and the total of the hold backs will be released after the final inspection and approval of the release by the mortgagee. The mortgagee shall ensure that all mechanics’ and materialmen’s liens are released of record.
(d) Reimbursement to borrower. The mortgagee shall not reimburse the borrower for any labor the borrower performed. The mortgagee may reimburse the borrower for the actual cost of repair materials from the Repair Set Aside, provided that the mortgagee causes one or more inspections of the property by an inspector or other qualified individual acceptable to the Commissioner and meets all reimbursement requirements established by the Commissioner.
(e) HECM for Purchase. For HECM for Purchase transactions, where major property deficiencies threaten the health and safety of the homeowner or jeopardize the soundness and security of the property, all repairs must be completed by the seller prior to closing. Appraisers shall complete the appraisal report as “Subject To” the completion of the repairs.
§ 206.51 Eligibility of mortgages involving a dwelling unit in a condominium.
If the mortgage involves a dwelling unit in a condominium, the project in which the unit is located must be acceptable to the Commissioner as set forth in 24 CFR 203.43b.
§ 206.52 Eligible sale of property-HECM for Purchase.
(a) Sale by owner of record – (1) Owner of record requirement. To be eligible for a mortgage insured by FHA, the property must be purchased from the owner of record and the transaction may not involve any sale or assignment of the sales contract.
(2) Supporting documentation. The mortgagee shall obtain documentation verifying that the seller is the owner of record and must submit this documentation to FHA as part of the application for mortgage insurance, in accordance with §§ 206.15 and 206.115(b)(9).
(b) Time restrictions on re-sales – (1) General. The eligibility of a property for a mortgage insured by FHA is dependent on the time that has elapsed between the date the seller acquired the property (based upon the date of settlement) and the date of execution of the sales contract that will result in the FHA mortgage insurance (the re-sale date). The mortgagee shall obtain documentation verifying compliance with the time restrictions described in this paragraph and must submit this documentation to FHA as part of the application for mortgage insurance, in accordance with § 206.115(b).
(2) Re-sales occurring 90 days or less following acquisition. If the re-sale date is 90 days or less following the date of acquisition by the seller, the property is not eligible for a mortgage to be insured by FHA.
(3) Re-sales occurring between 91 days and 180 days following acquisition. (i) If the re-sale date is between 91 days and 180 days following acquisition by the seller, the property is generally eligible for a mortgage insured by FHA.
(ii) However, FHA will require that the mortgagee obtain additional documentation if the re-sale price is 100 percent over the purchase price. Such documentation must include an appraisal from another appraiser. The mortgagee may also document its loan file to support the increased value by establishing that the increased value results from the rehabilitation of the property.
(iii) FHA may revise the level at which additional documentation is required under paragraph (b)(3) of this section at 50 to 150 percent over the original purchase price. FHA will revise this level by
(4) Authority to address property flipping for re-sales occurring between 91 days and 12 months following acquisition. (i) If the re-sale date is more than 90 days after the date of acquisition by the seller, but before the end of the twelfth month after the date of acquisition, the property is eligible for a mortgage to be insured by FHA.
(ii) However, FHA may require that the mortgagee provide additional documentation to support the re-sale value of the property if the re-sale price is 5 percent or greater than the lowest sales price of the property during the preceding 12 months (as evidenced by the contract of sale). At FHA’s discretion, such documentation must include, but is not limited to, an appraisal from another appraiser. FHA may exclude re-sales of less than a specific dollar amount from the additional value documentation requirements.
(iii) If the additional value documentation supports a value of the property that is more than 5 percent lower than the value supported by the first appraisal, the lower value will be used to calculate the maximum claim amount. Otherwise, the value supported by the first appraisal will be used to calculate the maximum claim amount.
(iv) FHA will announce its determination to require additional value documentation through issuance of a
(v) The level at which additional documentation is required under paragraph (b)(4) of this section shall supersede that under paragraph (b)(3) of this section.
(5) Re-sales occurring more than 12 months following acquisition. If the re-sale date is more than 12 months following the date of acquisition by the seller, the property is eligible for a mortgage insured by FHA.
(c) Exceptions to the time restrictions on sales. The time restrictions on sales described in paragraph (b) of this section do not apply to:
(1) Sales by HUD of Real Estate-Owned (REO) properties under 24 CFR part 291 and of single family assets in revitalization areas pursuant to section 204 of the NHA (12 U.S.C. 1710);
(2) Sales by another agency of the United States Government of REO single family properties pursuant to programs operated by these agencies;
(3) Sales of properties by nonprofit organizations approved to purchase HUD REO single family properties at a discount with resale restrictions;
(4) Sales of properties that were acquired by the sellers by inheritance;
(5) Sales of properties purchased by an employer or relocation agency in connection with the relocation of an employee;
(6) Sales of properties by state- and federally-chartered financial institutions and government-sponsored enterprises (GSEs);
(7) Sales of properties by local and state government agencies; and
(8) Only upon announcement by FHA through issuance of a notice, sales of properties located in areas designated by the President as federal disaster areas. The notice will specify how long the exception will be in effect.
(d) Sanctions and indemnification. Failure of a mortgagee to comply with the requirements of this section may result in HUD requesting indemnification of the mortgage loan, or seeking other appropriate remedies under 24 CFR part 25.
Refinancing of Existing Home Equity Conversion Mortgages
§ 206.53 Refinancing a HECM loan.
(a) General. Except as otherwise provided in this section, all requirements applicable to the insurance of HECMs under this part apply to the insurance of refinanced HECMs. FHA may, upon application by a mortgagee, insure any mortgage given to refinance an existing HECM insured under this part, including loans assigned to the Commissioner as described in § 206.107(a)(1) and § 206.121(b).
(b) Definition of “total cost of the refinancing”. For purposes of paragraphs (d) and (e) of this section, the term “total cost of the refinancing” means the sum of the allowable charges and fees permitted under § 206.31 and the initial MIP described in § 206.105(a) and paragraph (c) of this section.
(c) Initial MIP limit. (1) The initial MIP paid by the mortgagee pursuant to § 206.105(a) shall not exceed the difference between: three percent of the increase in the maximum claim amount for the new HECM, minus the amount of the initial MIP already charged and paid by the borrower for the existing HECM that is being refinanced. No refunds will be given if the initial MIP paid on the existing HECM exceeds the initial MIP due on the new HECM.
(2) The HECM refinance authority is only applicable when the property that serves as collateral for the FHA-insured mortgage remains the same.
(3) Existing HECM borrowers refinancing an existing HECM are eligible for a MIP reduction under the conditions of this section, but existing HECM borrowers who participate in a HECM for Purchase transaction are ineligible for a reduction in the initial MIP.
(d) Anti-churning disclosure – (1) Contents of anti-churning disclosure. In addition to providing the required disclosures under § 206.43, the mortgagee shall provide to the borrower its best estimate of:
(i) The total cost of the refinancing to the borrower; and
(ii) The increase in the borrower’s principal limit as measured by the estimated initial principal limit on the mortgage to be insured less the current principal limit on the HECM that is being refinanced under this section.
(2) Timing of anti-churning disclosure. The mortgagee shall provide the anti-churning disclosure concurrently with the disclosures required under § 206.43.
(e) Waiver of counseling requirement. The borrower and any Non-Borrowing Spouse may elect not to receive counseling under § 206.41, but only if:
(1) The original HECM was assigned a Case Number on or after August 4, 2014, and the borrower and Non-Borrowing Spouse, if applicable, received counseling required under § 206.41; or where the original HECM was assigned a Case Number prior to August 4, 2014, and there is no applicable Non-Borrowing Spouse.
(2) The borrower has received the anti-churning disclosure required under paragraph (d) of this section.
(3) The increase in the borrower’s principal limit (as provided in the anti-churning disclosure) exceeds the total cost of the refinancing by an amount established by the Commissioner through
(4) The time between the date of the closing on the original HECM and the date of the application for refinancing under this section does not exceed five years (even if less than five years have passed since a previous refinancing under this section).
Deferral of Due and Payable Status
§ 206.55 Deferral of due and payable status for Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouses.
(a) Deferral Period. If the last surviving borrower predeceases an Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse, and if the requirements of paragraph (d) of this section are satisfied, the due and payable status will be deferred for as long as the Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse continues to meet the Qualifying Attributes in paragraph (c) of this section and the requirements of paragraphs (d) and (e) of this section.
(b) End of Deferral Period. (1) If a Deferral Period ceases or becomes unavailable because a Non-Borrowing Spouse no longer satisfies the Qualifying Attributes and has become an Ineligible Non-Borrowing Spouse, a mortgagee may not provide an opportunity to cure the default, and the HECM will become immediately due and payable as a result of the death of the last surviving borrower.
(2) If a Deferral Period ceases but the Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse continues to meet the Qualifying Attributes, the mortgagee must provide an Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse with 30 days to cure the default, in accordance with § 206.57.
(c) Qualifying Attributes. (1) In order to qualify as an Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse, the Non-Borrowing Spouse must:
(i) Have been the spouse of a HECM borrower at the time of loan closing and remained the spouse of such HECM borrower for the duration of the HECM borrower’s lifetime;
(ii) Have been properly disclosed to the mortgagee at origination and specifically named as an Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse in the HECM mortgage and loan documents;
(iii) Have occupied, and continue to occupy, the property securing the HECM as his or her principal residence; and
(iv) Meet any other requirements as the Commissioner may prescribe by
(2) A Non-Borrowing Spouse who meets the Qualifying Attributes in paragraph (c)(1) of this section at origination is an Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse and may not elect to be ineligible for the Deferral Period. A Non-Borrowing Spouse that is ineligible for the Deferral Period at the time of loan origination because he or she failed to satisfy the Qualifying Attributes requirements in paragraph (c)(1) of this section is not subsequently eligible for a Deferral Period when the borrowing spouse dies or moves out of the home.
(3) An Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse shall become an Ineligible Non-Borrowing Spouse should any of the Qualifying Attributes requirements in paragraph (c)(1) of this section cease to be met.
(d) Additional requirements for Deferral Period. An Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse must satisfy and continue to satisfy the following requirements:
(1) Within 90 days from the death of the last surviving HECM borrower, establish legal ownership or other ongoing legal right to remain for life in the property securing the HECM;
(2) After the death of the last surviving borrower, ensure all other obligations of the HECM borrower(s) contained in the loan documents continue to be satisfied; and
(3) After the death of the last surviving borrower, ensure that the HECM does not become eligible to be called due and payable for any other reason.
(e) Unaffected terms of HECM. All applicable terms and conditions of the mortgage and loan documents, and all FHA requirements, continue to apply and must be satisfied.
(f) Nothing in this section may be construed as interrupting or interfering with the ability of the borrower’s estate or heir(s) to dispose of the property if they are otherwise legally entitled to do so.
§ 206.57 Cure provision enabling reinstatement of Deferral Period.
(a) When the mortgagee is required by § 206.55(b)(2) to provide an Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse with 30 days to cure the default, this section shall apply.
(b) If the default is cured within the 30-day timeframe, the Deferral Period shall be reinstated, unless:
(1) The mortgagee has reinstated the Deferral Period within the past two years immediately preceding the current notification to the Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse that the mortgage is due and payable;
(2) The reinstatement of the Deferral Period will preclude foreclosure if the mortgage becomes due and payable at a later date; or
(3) The reinstatement of the Deferral Period will adversely affect the priority of the mortgage lien.
(c) If the default is not cured within the 30-day timeframe, the mortgagee shall proceed in accordance with the established timeframes to initiate foreclosure and reasonable diligence in prosecuting foreclosure.
(d) Even after a foreclosure proceeding has been initiated, the mortgagee shall permit an Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse to cure the condition which resulted in the Deferral Period ceasing, consistent with § 206.55(b)(2), and to reinstate the mortgage and Deferral Period, and the mortgage insurance shall continue in effect. The mortgagee may require the Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse to pay any costs that the mortgagee incurred to reinstate the mortgage, including foreclosure costs and reasonable attorney’s fees. Such costs may not be added to the outstanding loan balance and shall be paid from some other source of funds. The mortgagee shall reinstate the Deferral Period unless:
(1) The mortgagee has reinstated the Deferral Period within the past two years immediately preceding the latest notification to the Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse that the mortgage is due and payable;
(2) The reinstatement of the Deferral Period will preclude foreclosure if the mortgage becomes due and payable at a later date; or
(3) The reinstatement of the Deferral Period will adversely affect the priority of the mortgage lien.
§ 206.59 Obligations of mortgagee.
(a) Certifications and disclosures at closing. At closing, the mortgagee shall obtain the appropriate certification from each borrower identified as married as well as from each identified Non-Borrowing Spouse. When a HECM borrower has identified an Ineligible Non-Borrowing Spouse, the mortgagee shall also disclose the amount of mortgage proceeds that would have been available under the HECM if he or she were an Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse.
(b) Divorce. In the event of a divorce between the HECM borrower and Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse, a mortgagee shall obtain a copy of the final divorce decree and shall not require the now Ineligible Non-Borrowing Spouse to fulfill any further requirements.
(c) Death of borrower. Within 30 days of being notified of the death of the borrower, the mortgagee shall:
(1) Obtain all certifications, as required by the Commissioner, from the Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse, and continue to obtain the required certifications no less than annually thereafter for the duration of the Deferral Period; and
(2) Notify any Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse that the due and payable status of the loan is in a Deferral Period only for the amount of time that such Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse continues to meet all requirements established by the Commissioner.
(d) Non-compliance with requirements. If the Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse ceases to meet any requirements established by the Commissioner, the mortgagee shall notify the Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse within 30 days that the Deferral Period has ended and the HECM is immediately due and payable, unless the Deferral Period is reinstated in accordance with § 206.57. The mortgagee shall obtain documentation validating the reason for the cessation of the Deferral Period and, if applicable, the reason for reinstatement of the Deferral Period.
§ 206.61 HECM proceeds during a Deferral Period.
(a) The HECM is not assumable. HECM proceeds may not be disbursed to any party during a Deferral Period, except as determined by the Commissioner through notice.
(b) If a Repair Set Aside was established as a condition of the HECM, funds may be disbursed from the Repair Set Aside during a Deferral Period for the sole purpose of paying the cost of those repairs that were specifically identified prior to origination as necessary to the insurance of the HECM. Repairs under this paragraph shall only be paid for using funds from the Repair Set Aside if the repairs are satisfactorily completed during the time period established in the Repair Rider or such additional time as provided by the Commissioner. Unused funds remaining beyond the established time period shall not be disbursed.
Subpart C – Contract Rights and Obligations
Sale, Assignment and Pledge
§ 206.101 Sale, assignment and pledge of insured mortgages.
(a) Sale of interests in insured mortgages. No mortgagee may sell or otherwise dispose of any mortgage insured under this part, or group of mortgages insured under this part, or any partial interest in such mortgage or mortgages by means of any agreement, arrangement or device except pursuant to this subpart.
(b) Sale of insured mortgage to approved mortgagee. A mortgage insured under this part may be sold to another approved mortgagee. The seller shall notify the Commissioner of the sale within 15 calendar days, on a form prescribed by the Commissioner and acknowledged by the buyer.
(c) Effect of sale of insured mortgage. When a mortgage insured under this part is sold to another approved mortgagee, the buyer shall thereupon succeed to all the rights and become bound by all the obligations of the seller under the contract of insurance and the seller shall be released from its obligations under the contract, provided that the seller shall not be relieved of its obligation to pay mortgage insurance premiums until the notice required by § 206.101(b) is received by the Commissioner.
(d) Assignments, pledges and transfers by approved mortgagee. (1) An assignment, pledge, or transfer of a mortgage or group of mortgages insured under this part, not constituting a final sale, may be made by an approved mortgagee to another approved mortgagee provided the following requirements are met:
(i) The assignor, pledgor or transferor shall remain the mortgagee of record.
(ii) The Commissioner shall have no obligation to recognize or deal with any party other than the mortgagee of record with respect to the rights, benefits and obligations of the mortgagee under the contract of insurance.
(2) An assignment or transfer of an insured mortgage or group of insured mortgages may be made by an approved mortgagee to other than an approved mortgagee provided the requirements under paragraphs (d)(1)(i) and (d)(1)(ii) of this section are met and the following additional requirements are met:
(i) The assignee or transferee shall be a corporation, trust or organization (including but not limited to any pension trust or profit-sharing plan) which certifies to the approved mortgagee that:
(A) It has assets of $100,000 or more; and
(B) It has lawful authority to hold an insured mortgage or group of insured mortgages.
(ii) The assignment or transfer shall be made pursuant to an agreement under which the transferor or assignor is obligated to take one of the following alternate courses of action within 1 year from the date of the assignment or within such additional period of time as may be approved by the Commissioner:
(A) The transferor or assignor shall repurchase and accept a reassignment of such mortgage or group of mortgages.
(B) The transferor or assignor shall obtain a sale and transfer of such mortgage or group of mortgages to an approved mortgagee.
(3) Notice to or approval of the Commissioner is not required in connection with assignments, pledges or transfers pursuant to this section.
(e) Declaration of trust. A sale of a beneficial interest in a group of mortgages insured under this part, where the interest to be acquired is related to all of the mortgages as an entirety, rather than an interest in a specific mortgage, shall be made only pursuant to a declaration of trust, which has been approved by the Commissioner prior to any such sale.
(f) Transfers of partial interests. A partial interest in a mortgage insured under this part may be transferred under a participation agreement without obtaining the approval of the Commissioner, if the following conditions are met:
(1) Principal mortgagee. The insured mortgage shall be held by an approved mortgagee which, for the purposes of this section, shall be referred to as the principal mortgagee.
(2) Interest of principal mortgagee. The principal mortgagee shall retain and hold for its own account a financial interest in the insured mortgage.
(3) Qualification for holding partial interest. A partial interest in an insured mortgage shall be issued to and held only by:
(i) A mortgagee approved by the Commissioner; or
(ii) A corporation, trust or organization (including, but not limited to any pension fund, pension trust, or profit-sharing plan) which certifies to the principal mortgagee that:
(A) It has assets of $100,000 or more; and
(B) It has lawful authority to acquire a partial interest in an insured mortgage.
(4) Participation agreement provisions. The participation agreement shall include provisions that:
(i) The principal mortgagee shall retain title to the mortgage and remain the mortgagee of record under the contract of mortgage insurance.
(ii) The Commissioner shall have no obligation to recognize or deal with anyone other than the principal mortgagee with respect to the rights, benefits and obligations of the mortgagee under the contract of insurance.
(iii) The mortgage and loan documents shall remain in the custody of the principal mortgagee.
(iv) The responsibility for servicing the insured mortgages shall remain with the principal mortgagee.
§ 206.102 Insurance Funds.
Loans endorsed for insurance under this part, prior to October 1, 2008, shall be obligations of the General Insurance Fund. Loans endorsed for insurance under this part, on or after October 1, 2008, shall be obligations of the MMIF.
Mortgage Insurance Premiums
§ 206.103 Payment of MIP.
(a) The payment of any MIP due under this subpart shall be made to the Commissioner by the mortgagee in cash until an event described in paragraph (b) or (c) of this section occurs.
(b) Payment of the mortgage. The MIP shall no longer be remitted if the mortgage is paid in full.
(c) Acquisition of title. (1) If the mortgagee or a party other than the mortgagee acquires title at a foreclosure sale, or the mortgagee acquires title by a deed in lieu of foreclosure, and the mortgagee notifies the Commissioner that a claim for the payment of the insurance benefits will not be presented, the MIP shall no longer be remitted.
(2) If the mortgagee or a party other than the mortgagee acquires title at a foreclosure sale or the mortgagee acquires title by a deed in lieu of foreclosure, or where the property is sold in accordance with § 206.125(c), and a claim for the payment of the insurance benefits will be presented, the MIP shall no longer be remitted as of the date of the foreclosure sale, the date the deed in lieu of foreclosure is recorded, or the date in which the sale in accordance with § 206.125(c) is completed, as applicable.
§ 206.105 Amount of MIP.
(a) Initial MIP. The mortgagee shall pay to the Commissioner an initial MIP that does not exceed three percent of the maximum claim amount.
(b) Monthly MIP. The Commissioner may establish and collect a monthly MIP, which will accrue daily from the closing date, at a rate not to exceed 1.50 percent of the remaining insured principal balance, or up to 1.55 percent for any mortgage involving an original principal obligation that is greater than 95 percent of appraised value of the property. A mortgagee may only add the monthly MIP to the loan balance when paid to the Commissioner.
(c) Calculation of the initial MIP. The mortgagee shall calculate the initial MIP based on the amount of funds the borrower has elected to be made available during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period, except that the calculation shall not include any funds set aside in the Servicing Fee Set Aside, if applicable. The initial MIP calculation shall be determined based on the sum of the following amounts:
(1) For adjustable interest rate HECMs, the amount of Mandatory Obligations, the amount disbursed to the borrower at loan closing, and the amount of the available Initial Disbursement Limit not taken by the borrower at loan closing that the borrower selects to remain available during the First 12-Month Disbursement Period.
(2) For fixed interest rate HECMs, the amount of Mandatory Obligations and the amount disbursed to the borrower at loan closing.
(d) Adjustments to initial or monthly MIP. The Commissioner may adjust the amount of any initial or monthly MIP through notice. Such notice shall establish the effective date of any premium adjustment therein.
(a) Election of option. Before the mortgage is submitted for insurance endorsement, the mortgagee shall elect either the assignment option or the shared premium option.
(1) Under the assignment option, the mortgagee shall have the option of assigning the mortgage to the Commissioner if the outstanding loan balance is equal to or greater than 98 percent of the maximum claim amount, regardless of the deferral status, or the borrower has requested a payment which exceeds the difference between the maximum claim amount and the outstanding loan balance and:
(i) The mortgagee is current in making the required payments under the mortgage to the borrower;
(ii) The mortgagee is current in its payment of the MIP (and late charges and interest on the MIP, if any) to the Commissioner;
(iii) The mortgage is not due and payable under § 206.27(c)(1), or, if due and payable under § 206.27(c)(1), its due and payable status has been deferred pursuant to a Deferral Period;
(iv) An event described in § 206.27(c)(2) has not occurred, or the Commissioner has been so informed but has denied approval for the mortgage to be due and payable. At the mortgagee’s option, the mortgagee may forgo assignment of the mortgage and file a claim under any of the circumstances described in § 206.123(a)(3)-(5); and
(v) The mortgage is a first lien of record and title to the property securing the mortgage is good and marketable. The provisions of § 206.136 pertaining to mortgagee certifications also apply.
(2) Under the shared premium option, the mortgagee may not assign a mortgage to the Commissioner unless the mortgagee fails to make payments and the Commissioner demands assignment (§ 206.123(a)(2)), but the mortgagee shall only be required to remit a reduced monthly MIP to the Commissioner. The mortgagee shall collect from the borrower the full amount of the monthly MIP provided in § 206.105(b) but shall retain a portion of the monthly MIP paid by the borrower as compensation for the default risk assumed by the mortgagee. The portion of the MIP to be retained by a mortgagee shall be determined by the Commissioner as calculated in § 206.109. For a particular mortgage, the applicable portion shall be determined as of the date of the commitment. The mortgagee retains the right to file a claim under any of the circumstances described in § 206.123(a)(2)-(5).
(b) No election for shared appreciation. Shared appreciation mortgages shall be insured by the Commissioner only under the shared premium option.
Using the factors provided by the Commissioner, the amount of the mortgagee share of the premium shall be determined for each mortgage based upon the age of the youngest borrower or Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse and the expected average mortgage interest rate.
§ 206.111 Due date of MIP.
(a) Initial MIP. The mortgagee shall pay the initial MIP to the Commissioner within fifteen days of closing and as a condition to the endorsement of the mortgage for insurance.
(b) Monthly MIP. Each monthly MIP shall be due to the Commissioner on the first business day of each month except the month in which the mortgage is closed.
§ 206.113 Late charge and interest.
(a) Late charge. Initial MIP remitted to the Commissioner more than 5 days after the payment date in § 206.111(a) and monthly MIP remitted to the Commissioner more than 5 days after the payment date in § 206.111(b) shall include a late charge of four percent of the amount owed.
(b) Interest. In addition to any late charge provided in paragraph (a) of this section, the mortgagee shall pay interest on any initial MIP remitted to the Commissioner more than 20 days after closing, and interest on any monthly MIP remitted to the Commissioner more than 5 days after the payment date prescribed in § 206.111(b). Such interest rate shall be paid at a rate set in conformity with the Treasury Financial Manual.
(c) Paid by mortgagee. Any late charge and interest owed may not be added to the outstanding loan balance and must be paid by the mortgagee.
§ 206.115 Insurance of mortgage.
(a) Mortgages with firm commitments. For applications for insurance involving mortgages not eligible to be originated under the Direct Endorsement program under § 203.5 (any reference to § 203.255 in § 203.5 shall mean § 206.115 for purposes of this section), the Commissioner will endorse the mortgage for insurance by issuing a Mortgage Insurance Certificate.
(b) Endorsement with Direct Endorsement processing. For applications for insurance involving mortgages originated under the Direct Endorsement program under § 203.5 (any reference to § 203.255 in § 203.5 shall mean § 206.115 for purposes of this section), the mortgagee shall submit to the Commissioner, within 60 days after the date of closing of the loan or such additional time as permitted by the Commissioner, properly completed documentation and certifications as listed in this paragraph (b):
(1) Property appraisal upon a form meeting the requirements of the Commissioner (including, if required, any additional documentation supporting the appraised value of the property under § 206.52), and a HUD conditional commitment, or a Lender’s Notice of Value issued by the Lender Appraisal Processing Program (LAPP) approved lender when the appraisal was originally completed for use in a VA application, but only if the appraiser was also on the FHA roster as of the effective date of the appraisal, and all accompanying documents required by the Commissioner;
(2) An application for insurance of the mortgage in a form prescribed by the Commissioner;
(3) A certified copy of the mortgage and loan documents executed upon forms which meet the requirements of the Commissioner;
(4) An underwriter certification, on a form prescribed by the Commissioner, stating that the underwriter has personally reviewed the appraisal report and credit application (including the analysis performed on the worksheets) and that the proposed mortgage complies with FHA underwriting requirements, and incorporates each of the underwriter certification items that apply to the mortgage submitted for endorsement, as set forth in the applicable handbook or similar publication that is distributed to all Direct Endorsement mortgagees, except that if FHA makes the TOTAL Mortgage Scorecard available to HECM mortgagees by setting out requirements applicable for the use of the TOTAL Mortgage Scorecard in a
(5) Where applicable, a certificate under oath and contract regarding use of the dwelling for transient or hotel purposes;
(6) Where an individual water or sewer system is being used, an approval letter from the local health authority indicating approval of the system in accordance with § 200.926d(f);
(7) A mortgage certification on a form prescribed by the Commissioner, stating that the authorized representative of the mortgagee who is making the certification has personally reviewed the mortgage documents and the application for insurance endorsement, and certifying that the mortgage complies with the requirements of paragraph (b) of this section. The certification shall incorporate each of the mortgagee certification items that apply to the mortgage loan submitted for endorsement, as set forth in the applicable handbook or similar publication that is distributed to all Direct Endorsement mortgagees;
(8) Documents required by § 206.15;
(9) Documentation providing that the seller is the owner of record in accordance with § 206.52(a) and the time restriction requirements of § 206.52(b) are met;
(10) For HECM for Purchase transactions, a Certificate of Occupancy, or its equivalent, if required for new construction; and
(11) Such other documents as the Commissioner may require.
(c) Pre-endorsement review for Direct Endorsement. (1) Upon submission by an approved mortgagee of the documents required by paragraph (b) of this section, the Commissioner will review the documents and determine that:
(i) The mortgage is executed on a form which meets the requirements of the Commissioner;
(ii) The mortgage maturity meets the requirements of the applicable program;
(iii) The stated mortgage amount does not exceed 150 percent of the maximum claim amount;
(iv) All documents required by paragraph (b) of this section are submitted;
(v) All necessary certifications are made in accordance with paragraph (b) of this section;
(vi) There is no mortgage insurance premium, late charge or interest due to the Commissioner; and
(vii) The mortgage was not in default when submitted for insurance or, if submitted for insurance more than 60 days after closing, the mortgagee certifies that the borrower is current in paying all property charges or is otherwise in compliance with all the terms and conditions of the mortgage documents.
(2) The Commissioner is authorized to determine if there is any information indicating that any certification or required document is false, misleading, or constitutes fraud or misrepresentation on the part of any party, or that the mortgage fails to meet a statutory or regulatory requirement. If, following this review, the mortgage is determined to be eligible, the Commissioner will endorse the mortgage for insurance by issuance of a Mortgage Insurance Certificate. If the mortgage is determined to be ineligible, the Commissioner will inform the mortgagee in writing of this determination, and include the reasons for the determination and any corrective actions that may be taken.
(d) Submission by mortgagee other than originating mortgagee. If the originating mortgagee assigns the mortgage to another approved mortgagee before pre-endorsement review under paragraph (c) of this section, the assignee may submit the required documents for pre-endorsement review in the name of the originating mortgagee. All certifications must be executed by the originating mortgagee (or its underwriter, if appropriate). The purchasing mortgagee may pay any required mortgage insurance premium, late charge and interest.
(e) Post-Endorsement review for Direct Endorsement. Following endorsement for insurance, the Commissioner may review all documents required by paragraph (b) of this section. If, following this review, the Commissioner determines that the mortgage does not satisfy the requirements of the Direct Endorsement program, the Commissioner may place the mortgagee on Direct Endorsement probation, or terminate the authority of the mortgagee to participate in the Direct Endorsement program pursuant to § 206.15, or refer the matter to the Mortgagee Review Board for action pursuant to part 25 of this title.
(f) Creation of the contract. The mortgage shall be an insured mortgage from the date of the issuance of a Mortgage Insurance Certificate, from the date of the endorsement of the credit instrument, or from the date of FHA’s electronic acknowledgement to the mortgagee that the mortgage is insured, as applicable. The Commissioner and the mortgagee are thereafter bound by the regulations in this subpart with the same force and to the same extent as if a separate contract had been executed relating to the insured mortgage, including the provisions of the regulations in this subpart and of the National Housing Act.
§ 206.116 Refunds.
No amount of the initial MIP shall be refundable except as authorized by the Commissioner.
HUD Responsibility to Borrowers
§ 206.117 General.
The Commissioner is required by statute to take any action necessary to provide a borrower with funds to which the borrower is entitled under the mortgage and which the borrower does not receive because of the default of the mortgagee. The Commissioner may hold a second mortgage to secure repayment by the borrower under § 206.27(d). Where the Commissioner does not hold a second mortgage, but makes a payment to the borrower, and such payment is not reimbursed by the mortgagee, the Commissioner shall accept assignment of the first mortgage.
§ 206.119 [Reserved]
(a) Investigation. The Commissioner will investigate all complaints by a borrower concerning late payments. If the Commissioner determines that the mortgagee is unable or unwilling to make all payments required under the mortgage, including late charges, the Commissioner shall pay such payments and late charges to the borrower.
(b) Reimbursement or assignment. The Commissioner may demand that within 30 days from the demand, the mortgagee reimburse the Commissioner, with interest from the date of payment by the Commissioner, or assign the insured mortgage to the Commissioner. Interest shall be paid at a rate set in conformity with the Treasury Financial Manual. If the mortgagee complies with the reimbursement demand, then the contract of insurance shall not be affected. If the mortgagee complies by assigning the mortgage for record within 30 days of the demand, then the Commissioner shall pay an insurance claim as provided in § 206.129(e)(3) and assume all responsibilities of the mortgagee under the first mortgage. If the mortgagee fails to comply with the demand within 30 days, the contract of insurance will terminate as provided in § 206.133(c).
(c) Second mortgage. If the contract of insurance is terminated as provided in § 206.133(c), all payments to the borrower by the Commissioner will be secured by the second mortgage, unless otherwise provided by the Commissioner. Payments will be due and payable in the same manner as under the insured first mortgage. The liability of the borrower under the first mortgage shall be limited to payments actually made by the mortgagee to or on behalf of the borrower (including prior recoupment of the MIP remitted by the mortgagee and billed to the borrower), and shall exclude accrued interest, whether or not it has been included in the outstanding loan balance, and shared appreciation, if any. Interest will stop accruing on the first mortgage when the Commissioner begins to make payments under the second mortgage. The first mortgage will not be due and payable until the second mortgage is due and payable.
Claim Procedure
§ 206.123 Claim procedures in general.
(a) Claims. Mortgagees may submit claims for the payment of the mortgage insurance benefits if:
(1) The conditions of § 206.107(a)(1) pertaining to the optional assignment of the mortgage by the mortgagee have been met and the mortgagee assigns the mortgage to the Commissioner;
(2) The mortgagee is unable or unwilling to make the payments under the mortgage and assigns the mortgage to the Commissioner pursuant to the Commissioner’s demand, as provided in § 206.121(b);
(3) The borrower or other permissible party sells the property for less than the outstanding loan balance and the mortgagee releases the mortgage of record to facilitate the sale, as provided in § 206.125(c);
(4) The mortgagee acquires title to the property by foreclosure or a deed in lieu of foreclosure and sells the property as provided in § 206.125(g) for an amount which does not satisfy the outstanding loan balance or fails to sell the property as provided in § 206.127(a)(2); or
(5) The mortgagee forecloses and a bidder other than the mortgagee purchases the property for an amount that is not sufficient to satisfy the outstanding loan balance, as provided in § 206.125(e).
(b) [Reserved]
§ 206.125 Acquisition and sale of the property.
(a) Initial action by the mortgagee. (1) The mortgagee shall notify the Commissioner within 60 days of the mortgage becoming due and payable when the conditions stated in the mortgage, as required by § 206.27(c)(1) have occurred or when the Deferral Period ends. The mortgagee shall notify the Commissioner within 30 days when one of the conditions stated in the mortgage, as required by § 206.27(c)(2), has occurred.
(2) After notifying and receiving approval of the Commissioner when needed, the mortgagee shall notify the borrower, Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse, borrower’s estate, and borrower’s heir(s), as applicable, within 30 days of the later of notifying the Commissioner or receiving approval, if needed, that the mortgage is due and payable. The mortgagee shall give the applicable party 30 days from the date of notice to engage in the following actions:
(i) Pay the outstanding loan balance, including any accrued interest, MIP, and mortgagee advances in full;
(ii) Sell the property for an amount not to be less than the amount determined by the Commissioner through notice, which shall not exceed 95 percent of the appraised value as determined under § 206.125(b), with the net proceeds of the sale to be applied towards the outstanding loan balance. Closing costs shall not exceed the greater of: 11 percent of the sales price; or a fixed dollar amount as determined by the Commissioner through
(iii) Provide the mortgagee with a deed in lieu of foreclosure;
(iv) Correct the condition which resulted in the mortgage coming due and payable for reasons other than the death of the last surviving borrower;
(v) For an Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse, correct the condition which resulted in an end to the Deferral Period in accordance with § 206.57; or
(vi) Such other actions as permitted by the Commissioner through notice.
(3) For a borrower, even after a foreclosure proceeding is begun, the mortgagee shall permit the borrower to correct the condition which resulted in the mortgage coming due and payable and to reinstate the mortgage, and the mortgage insurance shall continue in effect. The mortgagee may require the borrower to pay any costs that the mortgagee incurred to reinstate the borrower, including foreclosure costs and reasonable attorney’s fees. Such costs shall be paid by adding them to the outstanding loan balance. The mortgagee may refuse reinstatement by the borrower if:
(i) The mortgagee has accepted reinstatement of the mortgage within the past two years immediately preceding the current notification to the borrower that the mortgage is due and payable;
(ii) Reinstatement will preclude foreclosure if the mortgage becomes due and payable at a later date; or
(iii) Reinstatement will adversely affect the priority of the mortgage lien.
(4) For an Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse, even after a foreclosure proceeding is begun, the mortgagee shall permit the Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse to cure the condition which resulted in the Deferral Period ceasing, in accordance with § 206.57(d).
(b) Appraisal. The mortgagee shall have the property appraised by an appraiser on the FHA roster, or other appraiser acceptable to, and identified by, the Commissioner through
(c) Sale by borrower or other permissible party. Where the HECM is not due and payable, the borrower or an authorized representative of the borrower may sell the property for at least the lesser of the outstanding loan balance or the appraised value. Where the HECM is due and payable at the time the contract for sale is executed, the borrower or other party with legal right to dispose of the property may sell the property in accordance with the amount established by § 206.125(a)(2)(ii). The mortgagee shall satisfy the mortgage of record (and the Commissioner will satisfy any second mortgage required by the Commissioner under § 206.27(d) of record) in order to facilitate the sale, provided that there are no junior liens (except the mortgage to secure payments by the Commissioner if required under § 206.27(d)) and all the net proceeds from the sale are paid to the mortgagee.
(d) Initiation of foreclosure. (1) The mortgagee shall commence foreclosure of the mortgage within six months of the due date defined in § 206.129(d)(1), or within such additional time as may be approved by the Commissioner.
(2) If the laws of the State, city, or municipality or other political subdivision in which the mortgaged property is located or if Federal bankruptcy law does not permit the commencement of the foreclosure in accordance with § 206.125(d)(1), the mortgagee shall commence foreclosure within six months after the expiration of the time during which such foreclosure is prohibited by such laws.
(3) The mortgagee shall give written notice to the Commissioner within 30 days after the initiation of foreclosure proceedings, and shall exercise reasonable diligence in prosecuting the foreclosure proceedings to completion and in acquiring title to and possession of the property. A time frame that is determined by the Commissioner to constitute “reasonable diligence” for each State is made available to mortgagees.
(4) The mortgagee shall bid at the foreclosure sale an amount at least equal to the lesser of the sum of the outstanding loan balance and any and all other incurred expenses, or the current appraised value of the property. Such a bid by any party other than the mortgagee, for the full loan balance and all associated expenses, will result in a full payoff of the loan and no claim for insurance benefits being presented to FHA.
(e) Other bidders at foreclosure sale. If a party other than the mortgagee is the successful bidder at the foreclosure sale, the net proceeds of the sale shall be applied to the outstanding loan balance.
(f) Deed in lieu of foreclosure. (1)(i) In order to avoid delays and additional expense as a result of instituting and completing a foreclosure action, the mortgagee shall accept a deed in lieu of foreclosure from the borrower or other party with legal right to dispose of the property provided it is filed for recording within 9 months of the due date and the mortgagee is able to obtain good and marketable title.
(ii) Cash for Keys. The Commissioner may provide a financial incentive, in an amount to be determined by the Commissioner, to be paid by the mortgagee and reimbursed through any subsequent claim where a borrower or other party with a legal right to do so deeds the property within 6 months of the due date.
(2) In exchange for the executed and delivered deed, the mortgagee shall cancel the credit instrument and deliver it to the borrower and satisfy the mortgage of record. If applicable, the mortgagee shall request that the Commissioner cancel the credit instrument and deliver it to the borrower and satisfy the mortgage of record.
(g) Sale of the acquired property. (1) Upon acquisition of the property by foreclosure or deed in lieu of foreclosure, the mortgagee shall take possession of, preserve, and repair the property and shall make diligent efforts to sell the property within six months from the date the mortgagee acquired the property, or such additional time as provided by the Commissioner. The mortgagee shall sell the property for an amount not less than the appraised value (as provided under paragraph (b) of this section) unless the mortgagee does not file an application for insurance benefits or written permission is obtained from the Commissioner authorizing a sale at a lower price.
(2) Repairs shall not exceed those required by local law, or the requirements of the Commissioner or the Secretary of Veterans Affairs if the sale of the property is financed with a mortgage insured by the Commissioner or guaranteed, insured, or taken by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. No other repairs shall be made without the specific advance approval of the Commissioner.
(3) The mortgagee shall not enter into a contract for the preservation, repair, or sale of the property with any officer, employee, or owner of ten percent or more interest in the mortgagee or with any other person or organization having an identity of interest with the mortgagee or with any relative of such officer, employee, owner, or person.
(4) The Commissioner may provide financial incentive, in an amount to be determined by the Commissioner, to be paid by the mortgagee and reimbursed through a subsequent claim when a bona fide tenant vacates the property prior to an eviction being initiated by the mortgagee.
§ 206.127 Application for insurance benefits.
(a) Mortgagee acquires title. (1) The mortgagee shall apply for the payment of the insurance benefits within 30 days after the sale of the property by the mortgagee or within such additional time as approved by the Commissioner. Application shall be made by notifying the Commissioner of the sale of the property, the sale price, and income and expenses incurred in connection with the acquisition, repair, and sale of the property.
(2) If the property will not be sold within six months from the foreclosure sale date where the mortgagee is the successful bidder, the mortgagee shall apply for the insurance benefit not later than 30 days after the end of the six-month period, substituting the appraised value, using a valid appraisal, for the sale price. The mortgagee may add the cost of the appraisal to the claim amount.
(b) Party other than the mortgagee acquires title. The mortgagee shall apply for the payment of the insurance benefits within 30 days after a party other than the mortgagee acquires title to the property. Application shall be made by notifying the Commissioner of the sale of the property and the sale price. Transferring a portfolio that includes REO properties to another entity does not constitute a “sale” under this section.
(c) Mortgagee assigns the mortgage. The mortgagee shall file its claim for the payment of insurance benefits within 15 days after the date the assignment of the mortgage to the Commissioner is filed for recording. The application for the payment of the insurance benefits shall include the items listed in § 206.135(a) and the certification required under § 206.136.
(d) Contract of insurance not terminated. Mortgagees may only file an application for insurance benefits provided the contract of insurance has not terminated.
§ 206.129 Payment of claim.
(a) General. If the claim for the payment of the insurance benefits is acceptable to the Commissioner, payment shall be made in cash in the amount determined under this section.
(b) Limit on claim amount. (1) For HECMs assigned Case Numbers prior to September 19, 2017, in no case may the claim paid under this subpart exceed the maximum claim amount. The interest allowance provided in paragraphs (d)(3)(x), (e)(2), and (f)(2)(i) of this section shall not be included in determining the limit on the claim amount.
(2) For HECMs assigned Case Numbers on or after September 19, 2017, in no case may the claim paid under this subpart exceed the maximum claim amount, as defined in § 206.3. The interest allowance provided in paragraphs (d)(3)(x), (e)(2) and (f)(2)(ii) of this section shall be made in cash in the amount determined under this section and shall be included in determining the limit on the claim amount.
(c) Shared appreciation mortgages. The terms loan balance and accrued interest as used in this section do not include interest attributable to the mortgagee’s share of the appreciated value of the property.
(d) Amount of payment – mortgagee acquires title or is unsuccessful bidder. This paragraph describes the amount of payment if the mortgagee acquires title by purchase, foreclosure, or deed in lieu of foreclosure, or when a party other than the mortgagee is the successful bidder at the foreclosure sale.
(1) Due and payable date means the date when the mortgagee notifies or should have notified the Commissioner that the mortgage is due and payable under the conditions stated in the mortgage, as required by § 206.27(c)(1) or the date that the Deferral Period, as provided for in the mortgage by § 206.27(c)(3), ends; or the date the Commissioner approved a due and payable request as provided for in the mortgage by § 206.27(c)(2).
(2) The amount of the claim shall be computed by:
(i) Totaling the outstanding loan balance and any accrued interest and servicing fees which have not been added to the outstanding loan balance as of the due and payable date, and allowances for items set forth in paragraph (d)(3) of this section; and
(ii) Subtracting from that total the amount for which the property was sold (or the appraised value determined under § 206.127(a)(2)) and the items set forth in paragraph (d)(4) of this section.
(3) The claim shall include items listed in paragraphs (d)(3)(i) through (xiv) of this section. For HECMs with Case Numbers assigned on or after September 19, 2017, the inclusion of items listed in paragraphs (d)(3)(i), (ii), and (iii) of this section shall be limited to two-thirds of advances made by the mortgagee on such expenses.
(i) Taxes, ground rents, water rates, and utility charges that are liens prior to the mortgage;
(ii) Special assessments, which are noted on the application for insurance or which become liens after the insurance of the mortgage;
(iii) Hazard and flood insurance premiums on the mortgaged property not in excess of a reasonable rate;
(A) For purposes of this section, reasonable rate means a rate that is not in excess of the rate or advisory rate set by the principal State-licensed rating organization for essential property insurance in the voluntary market, or if coverage is available under a FAIR Plan, the FAIR Plan rate;
(B) If a State has neither a FAIR Plan nor a State-licensed rating organization for essential property insurance in the voluntary market, the mortgagee must provide to the Home Ownership Center (HOC) having jurisdiction, information concerning the lowest rates available from an insurer for the types of coverage involved, with a request for a determination of whether the rate is reasonable. FHA will determine the rate to be reasonable if it approximates the rate assessed for comparable insurance coverage applicable to similarly situated properties in a State that offers a FAIR Plan or maintains a State-licensed rating organization;
(iv) Taxes imposed upon any deeds or other instruments by which said property was acquired by the mortgagee pursuant to § 206.125;
(v) Reasonable payments made by the mortgagee, with the approval of the Commissioner, for the purpose of protecting, operating, or preserving the property, or removing debris from the property;
(vi) Reasonable costs for performing property inspections required by § 206.140 and to determine if the property is vacant or abandoned are considered to be costs of protecting, operating or preserving the property;
(vii) Charges for the administration, operation, maintenance, or repair of community-owned property or the maintenance or repair of the mortgaged property, paid by the mortgagee for the purpose of discharging an obligation arising out of a covenant filed for record prior to the issuance of the mortgage; and charges for the repair or maintenance of the mortgaged property required by, and in an amount approved by, the Commissioner under § 206.142;
(viii) Reasonable costs of the title search ordered by the mortgagee, in accordance with procedures prescribed by FHA, to determine if the criteria for approval of the mortgagee’s acceptance of a deed in lieu of foreclosure or to determine clear title to complete a pre-foreclosure sale;
(ix) Foreclosure costs or costs of acquiring the property in accordance with such conditions as the Commissioner shall prescribe;
(x) An amount equal to the interest allowance which would have been earned, from the due and payable date to the date when payment of the claim is made, if the claim had been paid in debentures, except that when the mortgagee fails to meet any one of the applicable requirements of §§ 206.125 and 206.127 of this subpart within the specified time, and in a manner satisfactory to the Commissioner (or within such further time as the Commissioner may approve in writing), the interest allowance in such cash payment shall be computed only to the date on which the particular required action should have been taken or to which it was extended.
(A) Debenture interest rate. The debenture interest rate provided for in § 206.146 shall be used.
(B) Maturity of debentures. Debentures shall mature 20 years from the date of issue.
(C) Registration of debentures. Debentures shall be registered as to principal and interest.
(D) Form and amounts of debentures. Debentures issued under this part shall be in such form and amounts; and shall be subject to such terms and conditions; and shall include such provisions for redemption, if any, as may be prescribed by the Commissioner, with the approval of the Secretary of the Treasury; and may be in book entry or certificated registered form, or such other form as the Commissioner by regulation may prescribe.
(E) Redemption of debentures. Debentures shall, at the option of the Commissioner and with the approval of the Secretary of the Treasury, be redeemable at par plus accrued interest on any semiannual interest payment date on three months’ notice of redemption given in such manner as the Commissioner shall prescribe. The debenture interest on the debentures called for redemption shall cease on the semiannual interest payment date designated in the call notice. The Commissioner may include with the notice of redemption an offer to purchase the debentures at par plus accrued interest at any time during the period between the notice of redemption and the redemption date. If the debentures are purchased by the Commissioner after such call and prior to the named redemption date, the debenture interest shall cease on the date of purchase.
(F) Issue date of debentures. The issue date of debentures is determined by the due and payable date as defined in paragraph (d)(1) of this section.
(G) Cash adjustment. Any difference of less than $50 between the amount of debentures to be issued to the mortgagee and the total amount of the mortgagee’s claim, as approved by the Commissioner, may be adjusted by the issuance of a check in payment thereof;
(xi) Any amount of incentive paid by the mortgagee in accordance with § 206.125(f)(1)(ii) or § 206.125(g)(4);
(xii) Costs of any appraisal under §§ 206.125 or 206.127, provided that the property was appraised after the mortgage became due and payable and that the mortgagee is not otherwise reimbursed for such costs;
(xiii) Reasonable payments made by the mortgagee for:
(A) Preservation and maintenance of the property;
(B) Repairs necessary to meet the objectives of the property standards required for mortgages insured by the Commissioner, those required by local law, and such additional repairs as may be specifically approved in advance by the Commissioner; and
(C) Expenses in connection with the sale of the property including a sales commission at the rate customarily paid in the community and, if the sale to the buyer involves a mortgage insured by the Commissioner or guaranteed by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, a discount at a rate not to exceed the maximum allowable by the Commissioner, as of the date of execution of the discounted loan. Closing costs shall not exceed the greater of: 11 percent of the sales price; or a fixed dollar amount as determined by the Commissioner through
(xiv) A certification that the property is undamaged in accordance with § 206.143.
(4) There shall be deducted from the amount computed in paragraph (d)(2)(i) of this section:
(i) The items listed in § 206.145; and
(ii) Any adjustment for damage or neglect to the property pursuant to §§ 206.140, 206.141, and 206.142.
(e) Amount of payment – assigned mortgages. This paragraph describes the amount of payment if the mortgagee assigns a mortgage to the Commissioner under § 206.107(a)(1) or § 206.121(b).
(1) When a mortgagee assigns a mortgage which is eligible for assignment under § 206.107(a)(1), the amount of payment shall be computed by subtracting from the outstanding loan balance on the date of assignment all cash retained by the mortgagee, including amounts held or deposited for the account of the borrower or to which it is entitled under the mortgage transaction that have not been applied in reduction of the principal mortgage indebtedness, and any adjustments for damage or neglect to the property pursuant to §§ 206.140, 206.141 and 206.142.
(2) The claim shall also include:
(i) Reimbursement for such costs and attorney’s fees as the Commissioner finds were properly incurred in connection with the assignment of the mortgage to the Commissioner; and
(ii) An amount equivalent to the interest allowance which will have been earned from the date the mortgage was assigned to the Commissioner to the date the claim is paid, if the claim had been paid in debentures, except that if the mortgagee fails to meet any of the requirements of § 206.127(c), or § 206.131 if applicable, within the specified time and in a manner satisfactory to the Commissioner (or within such further time as the Commissioner may approve in writing), the interest allowance in the payment of the claim shall be computed only to the date on which the particular required action should have been taken or to which it was extended. The provisions of paragraphs (d)(3)(x)(A)-(G) of this section pertaining to debentures are applicable except that the issue date of the debentures shall be the date the mortgage was assigned to the Commissioner.
(3) When a mortgagee assigns a mortgage under § 206.121(b) after demand by the Commissioner, the mortgagee will not receive the entire claim payment as contained in paragraphs (e)(1) and (2) of this section. The amount of the claim shall be computed by totaling the payments made by the mortgagee to the borrower or for the benefit of the borrower, and subtracting from the total the cash retained by the mortgagee, including amounts held or deposited for the account of the borrower or to which it is entitled under the mortgage transaction that have not been applied in reduction of the principal mortgage indebtedness, and any adjustments for damage or neglect to the property pursuant to §§ 206.141 and 206.142. The claim shall also be reduced by an amount determined by the Commissioner to reimburse the Commissioner for administrative expenses incurred in assuming the mortgagee’s responsibility under the mortgage, which may include expenses for staff time. If more than one mortgage is assigned to the Commissioner, the administrative expenses incurred for all the mortgages assigned shall be allocated among the mortgages as determined by the Commissioner. The claim shall not include accrued interest whether or not it has been included in the loan balance.
(f) Amount of payment-borrower sells the property. This paragraph describes the amount of payment if the property is sold in accordance with § 206.125(c) to one other than the mortgagee for less than the outstanding loan balance, and the mortgagee releases the mortgage to facilitate the sale.
(1)(i) For HECMs assigned Case Numbers prior to September 19, 2017, the amount of the claim shall be computed by totaling the outstanding loan balance and any accrued interest and servicing fees which have not been added to the outstanding loan balance on the date the deed is recorded, and an allowance for items set forth in paragraphs (d)(3)(i)-(vii) and (d)(3)(xii) of this section, and subtracting from the total the amount for which the property was sold.
(ii) For HECMs assigned Case Numbers on or after September 19, 2017, the following provisions apply:
(A) When the loan is not in due and payable status. The amount of the claim shall be computed by totaling the outstanding loan balance and any accrued interest and servicing fees which have not been added to the outstanding loan balance on the date the deed is recorded, and an allowance for items set forth in paragraph (d)(3)(xiii)(C) of this section, and subtracting from the total the amount for which the property was sold.
(B) When the loan is in due and payable status. The amount of the claim shall be computed by totaling the outstanding loan balance and any accrued interest and servicing fees which have not been added to the outstanding loan balance as of the due date, the items set forth in paragraph (d)(3) of this section, and subtracting from the total the amount for which the property was sold.
(2)(i) For HECMs assigned Case Numbers prior to September 19, 2017, the claim shall also include an amount equivalent to the interest allowance which would have been earned from the date the deed is recorded to the date when payment of the claim is made, if the claim had been paid in debentures, and in a manner satisfactory to the Commissioner; the interest allowance in such cash payment shall be computed only to the date on which the particular action should have been taken or to which it was extended. The provisions of paragraphs (d)(3)(x)(A)-(G) of this section pertaining to debentures apply except that the issue date of the debentures is the date the deed is recorded instead of the due date.
(ii) For HECMs assigned Case Numbers on or after September 19, 2017, the following provisions apply:
(A) When the loan is not in due and payable status. The claim shall also include an amount equivalent to the interest allowance which would have been earned from the date the deed is recorded to the date when payment of the claim is made, if the claim had been paid in debentures, and in a manner satisfactory to the Commissioner; the interest allowance in such cash payment shall be computed only to the date on which the particular action should have been taken or to which it was extended. The provisions of paragraphs (d)(3)(x)(A)-(G) of this section pertaining to debentures apply except that the issue date of the debentures shall be the date the deed is recorded.
(B) When the loan is in due and payable status. The claim shall also include an amount equivalent to the interest allowance which would have been earned from the due and payable date to the date when payment of the claim is made, if the claim had been paid in debentures, except that when the mortgagee fails to meet any of the applicable requirements of §§ 206.125 and 206.127 within the specified time determined by the due and payable date, as defined in paragraph (d)(1) of this section (or within such further time as the Commissioner may approve in writing), and in a manner satisfactory to the Commissioner; the interest allowance in such cash payment shall be computed only to the date on which the particular action should have been taken or to which it was extended. The provisions of paragraphs (d)(3)(x)(A)-(G) of this section pertaining to debentures apply.
Condominiums
§ 206.131 Contract rights and obligations for mortgages on individual dwelling units in a condominium.
(a) Additional requirements. The requirements of this subpart shall be applicable to mortgages on individual dwelling units in a condominium, except as modified by this section.
(b) References. The term property as used in this subpart shall be construed to include the individual dwelling unit and the undivided interest in the common areas and facilities as may be designated.
(c) Assignment of the mortgage. If the mortgagee assigns the mortgage on the individual dwelling unit to the Commissioner, the mortgagee shall certify:
(1) To any changes in the plan of apartment ownership including the administration of the property;
(2) That as of the date the assignment is filed for record, the family unit is assessed and subject to assessment for taxes pertaining only to that unit; and
(3) To the condition of the property as of the date the assignment is filed for record. For units in projects with mortgages insured under 24 CFR part 234, § 234.275 of this chapter concerning the certification of condition applies.
(d) Condition of the multifamily structure. In projects with mortgages insured under 24 CFR part 234, the provisions of § 234.270(a) and (b) of this chapter concerning the condition of the multifamily structure in which the property is located shall be applicable to mortgages insured under this part which are assigned to the Commissioner.
Termination of Insurance Contract
§ 206.133 Termination of insurance contract.
(a) Payment of the mortgage. The contract of insurance shall be terminated if the mortgage is paid in full.
(b) Acquisition of title. (1) If the mortgagee or a party other than the mortgagee acquires title at a foreclosure sale, or the mortgagee acquires title by a deed in lieu of foreclosure, and the mortgagee notifies the Commissioner that a claim for the payment of the insurance benefits will not be presented, the contract of insurance shall be terminated.
(2) For HECMs with Case Numbers assigned on or after September 19, 2017, if the mortgagee or a party other than the mortgagee acquires title at a foreclosure sale or the mortgagee acquires title by a deed in lieu of foreclosure and a claim for the payment of the insurance benefits will be presented, the contract of insurance shall be terminated as of claim payment.
(c) Mortgagee fails to make payments. If the mortgagee fails to make the payments to the borrower as required under the mortgage, and does not reimburse the Commissioner or assign the mortgage to the Commissioner within 30 days from the demand by the Commissioner for reimbursement or assignment, the contract of insurance shall automatically terminate. The Commissioner may later reinstate the contract of insurance, which shall continue in force as if no termination had occurred, upon reimbursement with interest as provided in § 206.121. Upon reinstatement, the mortgagee shall be liable for all MIP which would have been due if no termination had occurred, including late charge and interest as provided in § 206.113.
(d) Notice of termination. The mortgagee shall give written notice to the Commissioner, or other notice acceptable to the Commissioner, within 15 days of the occurrence of an event under paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section. No contract of insurance shall be terminated under paragraphs (a) or (b) of this section unless such notice is given.
(e) Voluntary termination. The mortgagor and the mortgagee may jointly request the Commissioner to approve the voluntary termination of the mortgage insurance contract. Prior to approval, the Commissioner shall make certain that the borrower is aware of the consequences which could arise out of the voluntary termination of the contract of insurance. The mortgagee shall cancel the insurance endorsement on the Mortgage Insurance Certificate or Note upon receipt of notice from the Commissioner that the contract of insurance is terminated. Notwithstanding any provision in a mortgage instrument, there shall be no voluntary termination charge due the Commissioner on account of the voluntary termination of any mortgage insurance contract where the request for termination is received by the Commissioner.
(f) Effect of termination. When the insurance contract is terminated, all rights of the mortgagee shall terminate, including the right to file a claim for insurance benefits. All obligations of the Commissioner shall also cease immediately.
Additional Requirements
§ 206.134 Partial release, addition or substitution of security.
(a) A mortgagee shall not release the security or any part thereof, while the mortgage is insured, without the prior consent of the Commissioner.
(b) A mortgagee may, with the prior consent of the Commissioner, accept an addition to, or substitution of, security for the purpose of removing the dwelling to a new lot or replacing the dwelling with a similar or like kind on the existing lot under the following conditions:
(1) The mortgagee obtains a good and valid first lien on the property to which the dwelling is removed or the existing lot upon which the dwelling is rebuilt;
(2) All damages to the structure are repaired or all rebuilding of the structure is completed without cost to FHA; and
(3) The property to which the dwelling is removed or rebuilt is in an area known to be reasonably free from natural hazards or, if in a flood zone, the borrower will insure or reinsure under the National Flood Insurance Program or obtain equivalent private flood insurance coverage, as defined in § 203.16a of this chapter.
(c) A mortgagee may, without the prior consent of the Commissioner, accept an addition to, or substitution of, security for the purpose of removing the dwelling to a new lot under the following conditions:
(1) The dwelling has survived an earthquake or other disaster with little damage, but continued location on the property might be hazardous;
(2) The conditions stated in paragraph (b) of this section exist; and
(3) Immediately following the emergency removal the mortgagee notifies the Commissioner of the reasons for removal.
§ 206.135 Application for insurance benefits and fiscal data.
(a) On the date the application for assignment is filed, the mortgagee shall submit to the Commissioner:
(1) Credit and security instrument. The original credit and security instruments assigned without recourse or warranty, except that no act or omission of the mortgagee shall have impaired the validity and priority of the mortgage.
(2) Proposed assignment instrument. A copy of the proposed assignment of mortgage.
(3) Hazard and flood insurance. All hazard and flood insurance (if applicable) policies held in connection with the mortgaged property, together with a copy of the mortgagee’s notification to the carrier authorizing the amendment of the loss payable clause substituting the Commissioner as the mortgagee.
(4) Rights and interests. An assignment of all rights and interests arising under the mortgage, and all claims of the mortgagee against the borrower or others arising out of the mortgage transaction.
(5) Property. All property of the borrower held by the mortgagee or to which it is entitled (other than the cash items which are to be retained by the mortgagee).
(6) Records and accounts. All records, ledger cards, documents, books, papers and accounts relating to the mortgage transaction.
(7) Additional information. Any additional information or data which the Commissioner may require.
(8) Title evidence. All title evidence held by the mortgagee. It need not be extended to include the recordation of the assignment. The title insurance policy shall be endorsed from the mortgage insurance company up to the point of assignment. At the point of assignment, the Commissioner shall be named insured under such policy.
(b) All documents required in paragraph (a) of this section must be submitted and approved before a claim for assignment may be submitted.
(c) Recorded assignment instrument. The original of the recorded assignment of mortgage shall be forwarded to the Commissioner as soon as received by the mortgagee, but in no case shall it be longer than 12 months after recordation. If the original of the assignment is not available, a copy shall be furnished and the original forwarded as soon as possible.
§ 206.136 Conditions for assignment.
(a) In order for a HECM to be eligible for assignment, the following must be met:
(1) Priority of mortgage to liens. The mortgage is prior to all mechanics’ and materialmen’s liens, regardless of when such liens attach, and prior to all liens and encumbrances, or defects which may arise based on any act or omission by the mortgagee except such liens or other matters as may have been approved by the Commissioner.
(2) Amount due. The amount stated in the instrument of assignment is actually due and owing under the mortgage.
(3) Offsets or counterclaims. There are no offsets or counterclaims thereto and the mortgagee has a good right to assign.
(b) The mortgagee shall certify that the conditions of paragraph (a) have been met.
§ 206.137 Effect of noncompliance with regulations.
If, for any reason, the mortgagee fails to comply with the regulations in this subpart, the Commissioner may hold processing of the application for insurance benefits in abeyance for a reasonable time in order to permit the mortgagee to comply. In the alternative to holding processing in abeyance, the Commissioner may reconvey title to the property or reassign the mortgage to the mortgagee, in which event the application for insurance benefits shall be considered as cancelled and the mortgagee shall refund the insurance benefits to the Commissioner as well as other funds required by § 206.138. The mortgagee may reapply for insurance benefits at a subsequent date; provided, however, that the mortgagee may not be reimbursed for any expenses incurred in connection with the property after it has been reconveyed or the mortgage reassigned by the Commissioner, or paid any debenture interest accrued after the date of initial conveyance, whichever is earlier, and there will be deducted from the insurance benefits any reduction in the Commissioner’s estimate of the value of the property occurring from the time of reconveyance or mortgage reassignment to the time of reapplication.
§ 206.138 Mortgagee’s liability for certain expenditures.
Where the Commissioner accepts an assignment, acquires a property after accepting an assignment of a mortgage, or otherwise pays a claim for insurance benefits and thereafter it becomes necessary for the Commissioner to either reconvey the property or reassign the mortgage to the mortgagee due to the mortgagee’s noncompliance with these regulations, the mortgagee shall reimburse the Commissioner for all expenses incurred in connection with such acquisition and reconveyance or reassignment. The reimbursement shall include interest on the amount of insurance benefits refunded by the mortgagee from the date the insurance benefits were paid to the date of refund at an interest rate set in conformity with the Treasury Fiscal Requirements Manual, and the Commissioner’s cost of holding the property or servicing the mortgage, accruing on a daily basis, from the date of assignment or claim payment to the date of reconveyance or reassignment. These costs are based on the Commissioner’s estimate of the taxes, maintenance and operating expenses of the property, and administrative expenses. Appropriate adjustments shall be made by the Commissioner on account of any income received from the property.
§ 206.140 Inspection and preservation of properties.
The mortgagee, upon learning that a property subject to a mortgage insured under this part is vacant or abandoned, shall be responsible for the inspection of such property at least monthly, if the loan is in a due and payable status. When a mortgage is in due and payable status and efforts to reach the borrower or applicable party by telephone within that period have been unsuccessful, the mortgagee shall be responsible for a visual inspection of the security property to determine whether the property is vacant. The mortgagee shall take reasonable action to protect and preserve such security property when it is determined or should have been determined to be vacant or abandoned until assigned to the Commissioner or an application for insurance benefits is filed, if such action does not constitute an illegal trespass. “Reasonable action” includes the commencement of foreclosure within the time required by § 206.125.
§ 206.141 Property condition.
(a) Condition at time of transfer. When the mortgage is assigned to the Commissioner or the property is sold by the mortgagee, the property shall be undamaged by fire, earthquake, flood, or tornado, except as set forth in this subpart.
(b) Damage to property by waste. The mortgagee shall not be liable for damage to the property by waste committed by the borrower, its heirs, successors or assigns in connection with mortgage insurance claims.
(c) Mortgagee responsibility. The mortgagee shall be responsible for:
(1) Damage by fire, flood, earthquake, hurricane, or tornado; and
(2) Damage to or destruction of security properties on which the loans are in default and which properties are vacant or abandoned, when such damage or destruction is due to the mortgagee’s failure to take reasonable action to inspect, protect and preserve such properties as required by § 206.140.
(d) Limitation. The mortgagee’s responsibility for property damage shall not exceed the amount of its insurance claim as to a particular property.
§ 206.142 Adjustment for damage or neglect.
(a) Except as provided for in paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2) of this section: if the property has been damaged by fire, flood, earthquake, hurricane, or tornado, the damage must be repaired before assignment of the mortgage to the Commissioner; if the property has suffered damage because of the mortgagee’s failure to take action as required by § 206.140, the damage must be repaired before the mortgagee sells the property.
(1) If the prior approval of the Commissioner is obtained, there will be deducted from the insurance benefits the Commissioner’s estimate of the cost of repairing the damage or any insurance recovery received by the mortgagee, whichever is greater.
(2) If the property has been damaged by fire and was not covered by fire insurance at the time of the damage, or the amount of insurance coverage was inadequate to repair fully the damage, only the amount of insurance recovery received by the mortgagee, if any, will be deducted from the insurance benefits, provided the mortgagee certifies, at the time that a claim is filed for insurance benefits, that:
(i) At the time the mortgage was insured, the property was covered by fire insurance in an amount at least equal to the lesser of 100 percent of the insurable value of the improvements, or the principal loan balance of the mortgage;
(ii) The insurer later cancelled this coverage or refused to renew it for reasons other than nonpayment of premium;
(iii) The mortgagee made diligent though unsuccessful efforts within 30 days of any cancellation or non-renewal of hazard insurance, and at least annually thereafter, to secure other coverage or coverage under a FAIR Plan, in an amount described in paragraph (a)(2)(i) of this section, or if coverage to such an extent was unavailable at a reasonable rate, the greatest extent of coverage that was available at a reasonable rate;
(iv) The extent of coverage obtained by the mortgagee in accordance with paragraph (a)(2)(iii) of this section was the greatest available at a reasonable rate, or if the mortgagee was unable to obtain insurance, none was available at a reasonable rate; and
(v) The mortgagee took the actions required by § 206.140.
(b) If the property has been damaged during the time of the mortgagee’s possession by events other than fire, flood, earthquake, hurricane, or tornado, or if it was damaged notwithstanding reasonable action by the mortgagee as required by § 206.140, the mortgagee must provide notice of such damage to the Commissioner and may not sell the property until directed to do so by the Commissioner. The Commissioner will either:
(1) Allow the mortgagee to sell the property damaged; or
(2) Require the mortgagee to repair the damage before sale, and the Commissioner will reimburse the mortgagee for reasonable payments not in excess of the Commissioner’s estimate of the cost of repair, less any insurance recovery.
§ 206.143 Certificate of property condition.
(a) The mortgagee shall certify that as of the date the mortgagee sold the property in accordance with § 206.125(g) or assignment of the mortgage to the Commissioner, the property was:
(1) Undamaged by fire, flood, earthquake, hurricane or tornado; and
(2) Undamaged due to failure of the mortgagee to take action as required by § 206.140; and
(3) Undamaged while the property was in the possession of the mortgagee.
(b) In the absence of evidence to the contrary, the mortgagee’s certificate or description of the damage shall be accepted by the Commissioner as establishing the condition of the property, as of the date of mortgagee sale or assignment of the mortgage to the Commissioner.
§ 206.144 Final payment.
The mortgagee may not file any supplemental claims to its mortgage insurance claim after six months from settlement by the Commissioner of the claim payment except where the Commissioner determines it appropriate and expressly authorizes an extension of time for supplemental claim filings.
§ 206.145 Items deducted from payment.
(a) There shall be deducted from the total of the added items in § 206.129 the following cash items:
(1) All amounts received by the mortgagee on account of the mortgage after the institution of foreclosure proceedings or the acquisition of the property or otherwise after due and payable.
(2) All amounts received by the mortgagee from any source relating to the property on account of rent or other income after deducting reasonable expenses incurred in handling the property.
(3) All cash retained by the mortgagee including amounts held or deposited for the account of the borrower or to which it is entitled under the mortgage transaction that have not been applied in reduction of the outstanding loan balance.
(4) With regard to claims filed pursuant to successful short sales, all amounts received by the mortgagee relating to the sale of the property.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 206.146 Debenture interest rate.
(a) Debentures shall bear interest from the date of issue, payable semiannually on the first day of January and the first day of July of each year at the rate in effect as of the day the commitment was issued, or as of the date the mortgage was endorsed for insurance, whichever rate is higher. For applications involving mortgages originated under the single family Direct Endorsement program, debentures shall bear interest from the date of issue, payable semiannually on the first day of January and on the first day of July of each year at the rate in effect as of the date the mortgage was endorsed for insurance;
(b) For mortgages endorsed for insurance after January 23, 2004, if an insurance claim is paid in cash, the debenture interest rate for purposes of calculating such a claim shall be the monthly average yield, for the month in which the default on the mortgage occurred, on United States Treasury Securities adjusted to a constant maturity of 10 years.
Subpart D – Servicing Responsibilities
§ 206.201 Mortgage servicing generally; sanctions.
(a) General. This subpart identifies servicing practices that the Commissioner considers acceptable mortgage servicing practices of lending institutions servicing mortgages insured by the Commissioner. Failure to comply with this subpart shall not be a basis for denial of the insurance benefits, but a pattern of refusal or failure to comply will be cause for withdrawal of FHA mortgagee approval.
(b) Importance of timely payments. The paramount servicing responsibility is to make timely payments in full as required by the mortgage. Any failure of a mortgagee to make all payments required by the mortgage in a timely manner will be grounds for administrative sanctions authorized by regulations, including 2 CFR part 2424 (Debarment, Suspension, and Limited Denial of Participation), and 24 CFR part 25 (Mortgagee Review Board).
(c) Responsibility for servicing. (1) Servicing of insured mortgages must be performed by a mortgagee that is approved by FHA to service insured mortgages. The servicer must fully discharge the servicing responsibilities of the mortgagee as outlined in this part. The mortgagee shall remain fully responsible to the Commissioner for proper servicing, and the actions of its servicer shall be considered to be the actions of the mortgagee. The servicer also shall be fully responsible to the Commissioner for its actions as a servicer.
(2) Whenever servicing of any mortgage is transferred from one mortgagee or servicer to another, notice of the transfer of service shall be delivered:
(i) By the transferor mortgagee or servicer to the borrower. The notification shall be delivered not less than 15 days before the effective date of the transfer and shall contain the information required in 12 CFR 1024.33(b)(4); and
(ii) By the transferee mortgagee or servicer:
(A) To the borrower. The notification shall be delivered not less than 15 days before the effective date of the transfer and shall contain the information required in 12 CFR 1024.33(b)(4); and
(B) To the Commissioner. This notification shall be delivered within 15 days of the transfer, in a format prescribed by the Commissioner.
§ 206.203 Providing information.
(a) Statements of account activity. The mortgagee shall provide to the borrower a monthly statement regarding the activity of the mortgage for each month, as well as for the calendar year. The statement shall summarize the total principal amount which has been paid to the borrower under the mortgage during that calendar year, the MIP paid to the Commissioner and charged to the borrower, the total amount of deferred interest added to the outstanding loan balance, the total outstanding loan balance, and the current principal limit. The mortgagee shall include an accounting of all payments for property charges. The statement shall be provided to the borrower monthly until the mortgage is paid in full by the borrower. The mortgagee shall provide the borrower with a new payment plan every time it recalculates monthly payments or the payment option is changed. The statements shall be in a format acceptable to the Commissioner.
(b) [Reserved]
(c) Servicing – Providing information. (1) Mortgagees shall provide loan information to borrowers and arrange for individual loan consultation on request. The mortgagee must establish written procedures and controls to assure prompt responses to inquiries. One or more of the following means of making information readily available to borrowers is required:
(i) A servicing office staffed with competent personnel located within 200 miles of the property, capable of providing timely responses to requests for information. Complete records need not be maintained in such an office if the staff is able to secure needed information and pass it on to the borrower.
(ii) Toll-free telephone service at an office capable of providing needed information.
(2)(i) All borrowers must be informed of and reminded annually of the system available for obtaining answers to loan inquiries and the office from which needed information may be obtained. Toll-free telephone service need not be provided to a borrower other than at the office designated to serve the borrower nor other than from the immediate vicinity of the security property.
(ii) The mortgagee shall provide the borrower with the telephone number where the borrower may speak to employee(s) specifically designated by the mortgagee or its servicer to address inquiries concerning mortgages insured under this part. Such information shall be provided annually and whenever the servicer or the designated employee (or employee group) changes.
(3) Mortgagees must respond to FHA requests for information concerning individual accounts.
§ 206.205 Property charges.
(a) General. (1) The borrower shall be responsible for the payment of the following property charges before or on the due date: ground rents, condominium fees, planned unit development fees, and homeowners’ association fees.
(2) Payment of the following property charges are obligations of the borrower and shall be made through the LESA, by the borrower, or by the mortgagee, in accordance with paragraphs (b) through (e) of this section on or before the due date: property taxes, including any special assessments levied by local or State law, hazard insurance premiums, and applicable flood insurance premiums.
(b) Method of property charge payment – (1) LESA required. For fixed or adjustable interest rate HECMs, based on the results of the Financial Assessment, the mortgagee may require the borrower to have a Fully-Funded LESA for the payment of property charges identified in paragraph (a)(2) of this section. For adjustable interest rate HECMs, based on the results of the Financial Assessment, the mortgagee may require the borrower to have a Partially-Funded LESA for the payment of property charges identified in paragraph (a)(2) of this section.
(2) LESA not required. (i) If, based on the results of the Financial Assessment, the mortgagee does not require the borrower to have a LESA, the borrower shall elect one of the following at closing, whereby an election of the option in paragraph (b)(2)(i)(B) or (C) of this section cannot be cancelled by the borrower:
(A) Borrower is responsible for the independent payment of all property charges;
(B) Borrower elects to have a Fully-Funded LESA for the payment of property charges identified in paragraph (a)(2) of this section; or
(C) For adjustable interest rate HECMs only, borrower elects to have the mortgagee pay property charges listed in paragraph (a)(2) of this section which would have otherwise been required to be paid by the borrower, in accordance with paragraph (d) of this section.
(ii) Through
(c) Life Expectancy Set Aside – (1) General. (i) For a Fully-Funded LESA, the mortgagee shall:
(A) Make payments for property charges identified in paragraph (a)(2) of this section before bills become delinquent and establish controls to ensure that the information needed to pay such bills is obtained on a timely basis;
(B) Make early payments to take advantage of a discount whenever it is to the borrower’s advantage;
(C) Not charge the borrower penalties for late payments for property charges unless it can be shown that the penalty was the direct result of the borrower’s error or omission;
(D) Ensure that LESA funds are not held in an escrow account;
(E) Add payments for property charges to the outstanding loan balance when the mortgagee disburses funds to the taxing authority or insurance carrier; and
(F) Provide written notification to the borrower and FHA within 30 days of the mortgagee receiving notification that a property charge payment is outstanding when there are no funds or insufficient funds remaining in the LESA, and recommend that the borrower speak with a HUD-Approved Housing Counselor.
(ii) For a Partially-Funded LESA, the mortgagee shall:
(A) Ensure that LESA funds are disbursed to the borrower semi-annually;
(B) Establish controls to ensure the taxing authority, insurance carrier, or both, received the borrower’s payment;
(C) Ensure the LESA funds are not held in an escrow account;
(D) Add payments disbursed to the borrower for the payment of property charges identified in paragraph (a)(2) to the outstanding loan balance when the mortgagee disburses the funds; and
(E) Provide written notification to the borrower and FHA within 30 days of the mortgagee receiving notification that a property charge payment is outstanding when there are no funds or insufficient funds remaining in the LESA, and recommend that the borrower speak with a HUD-Approved Housing Counselor.
(2) Calculation of property charges. (i) The projected cost of property charges that will be required over the life expectancy of the youngest borrower shall be calculated based on a formula established by the Commissioner.
(ii) The mortgagee shall not require any LESA to be funded in excess of the projected cost of property charges.
(iii) For a Fully-Funded LESA, the amount withheld from the mortgage proceeds shall equal the projected cost of property charges.
(iv) For a Partially-Funded LESA, the amount withheld from the mortgage proceeds is based on a calculation of the gap in residual income and may not exceed the projected cost of property charges.
(v) Mortgagees shall use the HECM Financial Assessment and Property Charge Guide, or subsequent guide issued by the Commissioner, to determine whether a LESA is required; view the formula for calculating the projected costs of property charges; and view the formulas for calculating the Fully- and Partially-Funded LESA amounts.
(3) Annual analysis of LESA. Mortgagees shall perform an annual analysis of the LESA to determine whether the funds are sufficient to make required distributions for the next year. If funds are exhausted or there is an insufficient balance determination, the mortgagee shall notify the borrower, in writing and within 15 calendar days of the annual analysis of the determination, that LESA funds are exhausted or insufficient and the borrower will be responsible for the payment of property charges.
(4) Non-payment of property charges – (i) Fully-Funded LESA for an adjustable interest rate HECM with no remaining funds. (A) If the LESA is exhausted and the borrower fails to make property charge payments, the mortgagee shall use any available principal limit to pay the outstanding property charge amount in full and charge the borrower’s account.
(B) The mortgagee shall provide the borrower with a written notification within 30 days of the mortgagee receiving notification that a property charge payment is outstanding. The borrower shall have 30 days to respond to the mortgagee to explain the circumstances which resulted in the non-payment. (C) If there is no available principal limit from which the mortgagee can pay the property charge amount in full, and the borrower fails to pay the property charges, the mortgage will become due and payable under § 206.27(c)(2).
(ii) Fully-Funded LESA for a fixed interest rate HECM with no remaining funds. If the LESA is exhausted and the borrower fails to make property charge payments, the mortgage will become due and payable under § 206.27(c)(2).
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(iii) Partially-Funded LESA with remaining funds. If funds remain in the LESA and the borrower fails to make property charge payments, the mortgagee shall:
(A) Immediately suspend future semi-annual payments to the borrower from the Partially-Funded LESA, although scheduled and unscheduled payments from the borrower’s payment option may continue;
(B) Disburse funds from the Partially-Funded LESA to pay the full amount owed for the past due property charge; and
(C) Provide written notification to the borrower, within 30 days of the mortgagee receiving notification that a property charge payment is outstanding, that funds were advanced from the Partially-Funded LESA to pay the outstanding property charge. The borrower shall have 30 days to respond to the mortgagee to explain the circumstances which resulted in the non-payment.
(iv) Partially-Funded LESA with no remaining funds. (A) If the LESA is exhausted and the borrower fails to make property charge payments when due, the mortgagee shall use any funds available in the principal limit to pay the outstanding property charge amount in full and charge the borrower’s account.
(B) The mortgagee shall provide written notification to the borrower within 30 days of the mortgagee receiving notification that a property charge payment is outstanding. The borrower shall have 30 days to respond to the mortgagee to explain the circumstances which resulted in the non-payment.
(C) If there is no available principal limit from which the mortgagee can pay the property charge amount in full, and the borrower fails to pay the property charges, the mortgage will become due and payable under § 206.27(c)(2).
(5) Unused LESA funds. During a Deferral Period or when one of the events listed in § 206.27(c)(1) or (c)(2) have occurred, no unused funds from the LESA shall be disbursed.
(6) Assignment of mortgage to the Commissioner. If the insured first mortgage is assigned to the Commissioner, or if payments are made through the second mortgage under the Demand Assignment process, the Commissioner is not required to assume the responsibility for property charge payments, but may continue to administer payments for property charges for a borrower with a Fully-Funded LESA or semi-annual disbursements to a borrower with a Partially-Funded LESA to the extent that there are any funds available in the LESA. For adjustable interest rate HECMs, if the LESA has a positive remaining balance but funds are insufficient to pay all property charges due or semi-annual disbursements to the borrower, the Commissioner may provide the remaining funds to the borrower as a line of credit.
(d) Borrower elects to have mortgagee pay property charges. If, based on the results of the Financial Assessment, the mortgagee does not require the borrower to have a LESA, for adjustable interest rate HECMs, the borrower may elect at closing to require the mortgagee to pay property charges identified in paragraph (a)(2) of this section by withholding funds from monthly payments due to the borrower or by charging such funds to a line of credit. This voluntary election to have funds withheld by the mortgagee to pay property charges cannot be canceled by the borrower at any time. If the sum of the outstanding loan balance and any unused set aside for repairs and servicing charges has reached the principal limit or the HECM proceeds are otherwise insufficient to pay the property charges, the borrower shall pay such property charges, even though the borrower elected payment to be made by the mortgagee. Through
(1) Assignment of mortgage to the Commissioner. If the insured first mortgage is assigned to the Commissioner under § 206.107(a)(1) or § 206.121(b), or if payments are made through the second mortgage under § 206.121(c), the Commissioner is not required to assume the mortgagee’s responsibility under paragraph (d) of this section, despite the election by the borrower.
(2) Mortgagee’s responsibilities. (i) Funds withheld from payments due to the borrower for property charges under paragraph (d) of this section shall not be paid into an escrow account. When property charges are actually paid, the mortgagee may add the amount paid to the outstanding loan balance.
(ii) It is the mortgagee’s responsibility to make disbursements for property charges before bills become delinquent. Mortgagees shall establish controls to ensure that the information needed to pay such bills is obtained on a timely basis. Penalties for late payments for property charges must not be charged to the borrower unless it can be shown that the penalty was the direct result of the borrower’s error or omission. Early payment of a bill to take advantage of a discount should be made whenever it is to the borrower’s benefit.
(iii) Not later than the end of the second loan year the mortgagee shall establish a system for the periodic analysis of the amounts withheld from monthly payments. The analysis shall be performed at least once a year thereafter. The amount shall be adjusted, after analysis, to provide sufficient available funds to make anticipated disbursements during the ensuing year. The borrower shall be given at least ten days’ notice of adjustment in the amount of withholding and an adequate explanation of the reasons for any change. When the amount withheld is analyzed in accordance with this paragraph, any surplus shall be paid to the borrower and added to the outstanding loan balance. Any shortage shall be corrected through increasing the monthly withholding as provided in paragraph (d)(2)(iv) of this section. If amounts withheld are insufficient to pay a property charge before it is delinquent, and the borrower could request a payment equal to the shortage under § 206.26(b), then the mortgagee shall pay the full property charge and treat payment of the shortage as a payment requested by the borrower under § 206.26(b).
(iv) The mortgagee’s estimate of withholding amount shall be based on the best information available as to probable payments which will be required to be made for property charges in the coming year. If actual disbursements during the preceding year are used as the basis, the resulting estimate may deviate from those disbursements by as much as ten percent. The mortgagee may not require withholding in excess of the current estimated total annual requirement, unless expressly requested by the borrower. Each monthly withholding for property charges shall equal one-twelfth of the annual amounts as reasonably estimated by the mortgagee.
(e) Borrower elects to pay property charges. (1) If, based on the results of the Financial Assessment, the mortgagee does not require the borrower to have a LESA, the borrower may elect to be responsible for the independent payment of all property charges and shall pay all property charges in a timely manner and shall provide evidence of payment to the mortgagee as required in the mortgage.
(2) Failure to pay property charges. If the borrower fails to pay the property charges in a timely manner, and has not elected to have the mortgagee make the payments in accordance with paragraph (d) of this section:
(i) The mortgagee may make the payment for the borrower and charge the borrower’s account if there are available funds from which the mortgagee may make payment. If a pattern of missed payments occurs, the mortgagee may establish procedures to pay the property charges from the borrower’s funds as if the borrower elected to have the mortgagee pay the property charges under this section.
(ii) The mortgagee shall provide a written notification to the borrower and notify the Commissioner that an obligation of the mortgage has not been performed within 30 days of the mortgagee receiving notification of a missed payment when there are no available HECM funds from which the mortgagee may make payment. The borrower shall have 30 days to respond to the mortgagee to explain the circumstances which resulted in the non-payment. The mortgagee may provide any permissible loss mitigation made available by the Commissioner through notice. If the borrower is unable or unwilling to repay the mortgagee for any funds advanced by the mortgagee to pay property charges outside of a LESA, the mortgagee shall submit a due and payable request under the provisions of § 206.27(c)(2).
§ 206.207 Allowable charges and fees after endorsement.
(a) Reasonable and customary charges. The mortgagee may collect reasonable and customary charges and fees from the borrower after insurance endorsement, only to the extent that the mortgagee is not reimbursed for such fees by FHA, by adding them to the outstanding loan balance, but only for: items listed in paragraph (a)(1) of this section; items authorized by the Commissioner under paragraph (a)(2) of this section, or as provided at § 206.26(b)(1)(iii); or charges and fees related to additional documents described in § 206.27(b)(10) and related title search costs.
(1)(i) Charges for substitution of a hazard insurance policy at other than the expiration of term of the existing hazard insurance policy;
(ii) Attorney’s and trustee’s fees and expenses actually incurred (including the cost of appraisals and cost of advertising) when a case has been referred for foreclosure in accordance with the provisions of this part after a firm decision to foreclose if foreclosure is not completed because of a reinstatement of the account (no attorney’s fee may be charged for the services of the mortgagee’s or servicer’s staff attorney or for the services of a collection attorney other than the attorney handling the foreclosure);
(iii) A trustee’s fee if the security instrument in deed-of-trust states provides for payment of such a fee for execution of a satisfactory, release, or trustee’s deed when the deed of trust is paid in full;
(iv) Where permitted by the security instrument, attorney’s fees and expenses actually incurred in the defense of any suit or legal proceeding wherein the mortgagee shall be made a party thereto by reason of the mortgage (no attorney’s fee may be charged for the services of the mortgagee’s or servicer’s staff attorney); and
(v) Property preservation expenses incurred pursuant to § 206.140.
(2) Such other reasonable and customary charges as may be authorized by the Commissioner, but which shall not include:
(i) Charges for servicing activities of the mortgagee or servicer;
(ii) Fees charged by independent tax service organizations which contract to furnish data and information necessary for the payment of property taxes;
(iii) Satisfaction, termination, or reconveyance fees when a mortgage is paid in full (other than as provided in paragraph (a)(1)(iii) of this section); or
(iv) The fee for recordation of a satisfaction of the mortgage in states where recordation is the responsibility of the mortgagee.
(b) Servicing charges. (1) If the following conditions are met, the mortgagee may include a servicing charge in the mortgage Note rate, starting with the month of loan closing and continuing through the life of the loan, including any applicable Deferral Period:
(i) The charge is authorized by the Commissioner;
(ii) The charge is selected by the mortgagee;
(iii) The charge is within the range established by the Commissioner, which shall be set, through notice, in an amount which shall be between 36 and 150 basis points. The Commissioner may, through a
(iv) The charge is disclosed as required by § 206.43 to the borrower in a manner acceptable to the Commissioner at the time the mortgagee provides the borrower with a loan application; or
(2) If the following conditions are met, the mortgagee may collect a fixed monthly charge for servicing activities of the mortgagee or servicer, starting with the month of loan closing and continuing through the life of the loan, including any applicable Deferral Period.
(i) The charge is authorized by the Commissioner;
(ii) The charge is disclosed as required by § 206.43 to the borrower in a manner acceptable to the Commissioner at the time the mortgagee provides the borrower with a loan application;
(iii) Amounts to pay the charge are set aside as a portion of the principal limit in accordance with § 206.19(f)(3); and
(iv) The charge is payable only from the Servicing Fee Set Aside.
§ 206.209 Prepayment.
(a) No charge or penalty. The borrower may repay a mortgage in full or prepay a mortgage in part without charge or penalty at any time, regardless of any limitations on repayment or prepayment stated in a mortgage.
(b) Insurance and condemnation proceeds. If insurance or condemnation proceeds are paid to the mortgagee, the principal limit and the outstanding loan balance shall be reduced by the amount of the proceeds not applied to restoration or repair of the damaged property.
(c) Funds received from a partial prepayment shall be applied in accordance with the Note.
§ 206.211 Determination of principal residence and contact information.
(a) Annual certification. At least once during each calendar year, the mortgagee shall verify the contact information for the borrower(s) and determine whether or not the property is the principal residence of at least one borrower. The mortgagee shall require each borrower to make an annual certification of his or her contact information and principal residence. As part of the annual certification, the borrower may designate an alternate individual as specified in § 206.40 to receive copies of the notifications from the mortgagee, and who the mortgagee shall contact if the borrower is unwilling or unable to reply to requests from the mortgagee. The mortgagee may rely on the certification unless it has information indicating that the certification may be false.
(b) Requirements when an Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse exists. Where an Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse has been identified, the mortgagee shall obtain an additional annual certification from the borrower confirming the Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse remains his or her spouse and the Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse continues to reside in the property as his or her principal residence.
(1) Death of borrower with Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse. If a borrower with an Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse has died, the mortgagee shall obtain the annual certification in paragraph (a) of this section from the Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse. For purposes of this paragraph, the term “Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse” shall replace the term “borrower” in paragraph (a) of this section.
(2) Failure of previously Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse to reside in the property as his or her principal residence. If a Non-Borrowing Spouse fails to reside in the property as his or her principal residence, the Non-Borrowing Spouse becomes an Ineligible Non-Borrowing Spouse and the deferral of due and payable status that would prevent the displacement of an Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse will no longer be in effect. Once this occurs, the Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse annual certifications are no longer required to be obtained.
Subpart E – HECM Counselor Roster
§ 206.300 General.
This subpart provides for the establishment of the HECM Counselor Roster (Roster) and sets forth the requirements for the operation of the HECM Counselor Roster.
§ 206.302 Establishment of the HECM Counselor Roster.
(a) HECM Counselor Roster. FHA maintains a Roster of HECM counselors. Only counselors listed on the Roster and employed by a participating agency are approved to provide HECM counseling. A prospective borrower applying for a HECM loan to be insured by FHA must receive the required HECM counseling from one of the counselors on the Roster.
(b) Disclaimer. The inclusion of a HECM counselor on the Roster does not create or imply a warranty or endorsement by FHA of the listed counselor to a prospective HECM borrower or to any other organization or individual, nor does it represent a warranty of any counseling provided by the listed HECM counselor. The inclusion of a counselor on the Roster means that a listed counselor has met the FHA-prescribed qualifications and conditions for inclusion on the Roster and that the counselor is approved to provide HECM counseling by telephone or face-to-face.
§ 206.304 Eligibility for placement on the HECM Counselor Roster.
(a) Application. To be considered for placement on the Roster, a housing counselor must apply to FHA in a form and in a manner prescribed by the Commissioner.
(b) Eligibility. FHA will approve an application for placement on the Roster if the application demonstrates that the housing counselor:
(1) Is employed by a HUD-approved housing counseling agency or an affiliate of a HUD-approved intermediary or State housing finance agency;
(2) Successfully passed a standardized HECM counseling exam administered by FHA, or a party selected by FHA, within the last 3 years. In order to maintain eligibility, a HECM counselor must successfully pass a standardized HECM counseling exam every 3 years;
(3) Received training and education related to HECMs within the prior 2 years;
(4) Has access to and is supported by technology that enables FHA to track the results of the counseling offered to each loan applicant, e.g., what action(s), if any, did the client take after receiving the HECM counseling; and
(5) Is not listed on:
(i) The General Services Administration’s Suspension and Debarment List;
(ii) HUD’s Limited Denial of Participation List; or
(iii) HUD’s Credit Alert Interactive Response System.
§ 206.306 Removal from the HECM Counselor Roster.
(a) General. FHA reserves the right to remove a HECM counselor from the Roster, in accordance with this section.
(b) Cause for removal. Cause for removal of a HECM counselor from the Roster includes, but is not limited to:
(1) Failure to comply with the education and training requirements of § 206.308;
(2) Failure to respond within a reasonable time to HUD inquiries or requests for documentation;
(3) Misrepresentation or fraudulent statements;
(4) Promotion, representation, or recommendation of any specific mortgagee;
(5) Failure to comply with applicable fair housing and civil rights requirements;
(6) Failure to comply with applicable statutes and regulations;
(7) Failure to comply with applicable statutory counseling requirements found at section 255(f) of the National Housing Act, which include, but are not limited to, providing information about: options other than a HECM, the financial implications of entering into a HECM, the tax consequences of a HECM, and any other information that HUD or the applicant may request;
(8) Failure to maintain any registration, license, or certification requirements of a State or local authority;
(9) Unsatisfactory performance in providing counseling to HECM loan applicants. FHA may determine that a HECM counselor’s performance is unsatisfactory based on a review of counseling files or other monitoring activities, or if the counselor fails to employ the minimum competencies, as measured by the FHA-administered HECM counseling exam; or
(10) For any other reason HUD determines to be so serious as to justify an administrative sanction.
(c) Automatic removal from HECM Counselor Roster for failure to maintain required State or local licensure. A HECM counselor who is required to maintain a State or local registration, license, or certification and whose registration or certification is revoked, suspended, or surrendered will be automatically suspended from the Roster until FHA receives evidence demonstrating that the local- or State-imposed sanction has been lifted.
(d) Removal procedure. Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, the following procedures apply to removal of a HECM counselor from the Roster.
(1) FHA will give the HECM counselor written notice of the proposed removal. The notice will state the reasons for and the duration of the proposed removal.
(2) The HECM counselor will have 30 days from the date of receipt of the notice (or such time as described in the notice, but in no event less than a period of 30 days) to submit a written appeal of the proposed removal, along with a written request for a conference.
(3) An FHA official will review the appeal and render a response affirming, modifying, or canceling the removal. The FHA official will not be a person who was involved in FHA’s initial removal decision. FHA will respond with a decision within 30 days after the date of receiving the appeal or, if the HECM counselor has requested a conference, within 30 days after the conference was held. FHA may extend the 30-day period by providing written notice to the counselor.
(4) If the HECM counselor does not submit a timely written response, the removal will be effective 31 days after the date of FHA’s initial removal notice (or after the period provided in the notice, if longer than 30 days). If a written response is submitted, and the removal decision is affirmed or modified, the removal will be effective on the date of FHA’s notice affirming or modifying the initial removal decision.
(e) Maximum time period of removal. The maximum time period for removal from the Roster is 12 months from the effective date of removal for all removed counselors. A counselor who has been removed must apply for reinstatement on the Roster.
(f) Placement on the Roster after removal. A counselor who has been removed from the Roster must apply for reinstatement on the Roster (in accordance with § 206.304) after the period of the counselor’s removal from the Roster has expired. FHA may require the counselor to retake and pass the HECM exam for reinstatement when the reason for removal from the Roster was particularly egregious. Typically, the counselor will not be required to take and pass the HECM exam; however, FHA must be ensured by the counselor that the HECM counseling requirements are understood and will be followed. An application from a counselor for reinstatement on the Roster will be rejected if the period of the counselor’s removal from the Roster has not expired.
(g) Voluntary removal. A HECM counselor will be removed from the Roster upon FHA’s receipt of a written request from the counselor.
(h) Other action. Nothing in this section prohibits HUD from taking such other action against a HECM counselor or from seeking any other remedy against a counselor available to HUD by statute or other authority.
§ 206.308 Continuing education requirements of counselors listed on the HECM Counselor Roster.
A HECM counselor listed on the Roster must receive, on a continuing basis, training, education, and technical assistance related to HECMs. The HECM counselor must maintain evidence of the successful completion of such continuing education, and such evidence must be made available to FHA upon request. FHA will consider a HECM counselor’s successful completion of a HECM course no less than once every 2 years as satisfying the requirements of this section.
PART 207 – MULTIFAMILY HOUSING MORTGAGE INSURANCE
Subpart A – Eligibility Requirements
§ 207.1 Eligibility requirements.
The eligibility requirements set forth in 24 CFR part 200, subpart A, apply to multifamily project mortgages insured under section 207 of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1713), as amended.
Subpart B – Contract Rights and Obligations
§ 207.251 Definitions.
As used in this subpart:
(a) The term Commissioner means the Federal Housing Commissioner.
(b) The term act means the National Housing Act, as amended.
(c) The term mortgage means such a first lien upon real estate and other property as is commonly given to secure advances on, or the unpaid purchase price of, real estate under the laws of the State, district or territory in which the real estate is located, together with the credit instrument or instruments, if any, secured thereby. In any instance where an operating loss loan is involved, the term shall include both the original mortgage and the instrument securing the operating loss loan.
(d) The term insured mortgage means a mortgage which has been insured by the endorsement of the credit instrument by the Commissioner, or his duly authorized representative.
(e) The term contract of insurance means the agreement evidenced by such endorsement and includes the terms, conditions and provisions of this part and of the National Housing Act.
(f) The term mortgagor means the original borrower under a mortgage and its successors and such of its assigns as are approved by the Commissioner.
(g) The term mortgagee means the original lender under a mortgage its successors and such of its assigns as are approved by the Commissioner, and includes the holders of the credit instruments issued under a trust indenture, mortgage or deed of trust pursuant to which such holders act by and through a trustee therein named.
Premiums
The mortgagee, upon the initial endorsement of the mortgage for insurance, shall pay to the Commissioner a first mortgage insurance premium equal to not less than one-fourth of one percent nor more than one percent as the Secretary shall determine of the original face amount of the mortgage. The specific premium to be charged will be set forth in
(a) If the date of the first principal payment is more than one year following the date of such initial insurance endorsement, the mortgagee, upon the anniversary of such insurance date, shall pay a second premium equal to not less than one-fourth of one percent nor more than one percent as the Secretary shall determine of the original face amount of the mortgage. On the date of the first principal payment, the mortgagee shall pay a third premium equal to not less than one-fourth of one percent nor more than one percent of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the following year which shall be adjusted so as to accord with such date and so that the aggregate of the said three premiums shall equal the sum of:
(1) One percent of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the year following the date of initial insurance endorsement; and
(2) Not less than one-fourth of one percent nor more than one percent per annum as the Secretary shall determine of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the period from the first anniversary of the date of initial insurance endorsement to one year following the date of the first principal payment.
(b) If the date of the first principal payment is one year, or less than one year following the date of such initial insurance endorsement, the mortgagee, upon such first principal payment date, shall pay a second premium equal to not less than one-fourth of one percent nor more than one percent as the Secretary shall determine of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the following year which shall be adjusted so as to accord with such date and so that the aggregate of the said two premiums shall equal the sum of:
(1) One percent per annum of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the period from the date of initial insurance endorsement to the date of first principal payment; and
(2) Not less than one-fourth of one percent nor more than one percent as the Secretary shall determine of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the year following the date of the first principal payment.
(c) Where the credit instrument is initially and finally endorsed for insurance pursuant to a Commitment to Insure Upon Completion, the mortgagee on the date of the first principal payment shall pay a second premium equal to not less than one-fourth of one percent nor more than one percent as the Secretary shall determine of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the year following such first principal payment date which shall be adjusted so as to accord with such date and so that the aggregate of the said two premiums shall equal the sum of not less than one-fourth of one percent nor more than one percent per annum as the Secretary shall determine of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the period from the date of the insurance endorsement to one year following the date of the first principal payment.
(d) Until the mortgage is paid in full, or until receipt by the Commissioner of an application for insurance benefits, or until the contract of insurance is otherwise terminated with the consent of the Commissioner, the mortgagee, on each anniversary of the date of the first principal payment, shall pay an annual mortgage insurance premium equal to not less than one-fourth of one percent nor more than one percent as the Secretary shall determine of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the year following the date on which such premium becomes payable.
(e) The premiums payable on and after the date of the first principal payment shall be calculated in accordance with the amortization provisions without taking into account delinquent payments or prepayments.
(f) Premiums shall be payable in cash or in debentures at par plus accrued interest. All premiums are payable in advance and no refund can he made of any portion thereof except as hereinafter provided in this subpart.
(g) Any change in mortgage insurance premiums pursuant to this section will apply to new commitments issued or reissued on or after August 1, 2001 and any notice setting mortgage insurance premiums issued pursuant to this section.
§ 207.252a Premiums – operating loss loans.
(a) The mortgagee, upon the insurance endorsement of the increase loan credit instrument covering the operating loss loan, shall pay to the Commissioner a first mortgage insurance premium of not less than one-fourth of one percent nor more than one percent as the Secretary shall determine of the original amount of the loan.
(b) The provisions of paragraphs (d), (e), (f) and (g) of Sec. 207.252 shall apply to operating loss loans.
§ 207.252b Premiums – mortgages insured pursuant to section 223(f) of the Act.
(a) The mortgagee, upon the initial-final endorsement of the mortgage for insurance pursuant to a Commitment to Insure Upon Completion issued in accordance with § 207.32a, shall pay to the Commissioner a first mortgage insurance premium equal to one percent of the original face amount of the mortgage.
(b) The mortgagee, on the date of the first principal payment, shall pay a second premium equal to one percent of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the year following such first principal payment date which shall be adjusted as of that date so that the aggregate of the first and second premiums shall equal the sum of one percent per annum of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the period from the date of the insurance endorsement to one year following the date of the first principal payment.
(c) The provisions of paragraphs (d), (e) and (f) of § 207.252 shall apply to mortgages insured pursuant to section 223(f) of the Act.
§ 207.252c Premiums – mortgages insured pursuant to section 238(c) of the Act.
All of the provisions of §§ 207.252 and 207.252a governing mortgage insurance premiums shall apply to mortgages insured under this subpart pursuant to section 238(c) of the Act except that all mortgage insurance premiums due on such mortgages in accordance with §§ 207.252 and 207.252a shall be calculated on the basis of one percent.
§ 207.252d Mortgagee’s late charge.
Mortgage insurance premiums which are paid to the Commissioner more than 15 days after the billing date or due date, whichever is later, shall include a late charge of 4 percent of the amount of the payment due, except that no late charge shall be required with respect to any case for which HUD fails to render a proper billing to the mortgagee.
In the cases that the Commissioner deems appropriate, the Commissioner may require, by means of instructions communicated to all affected mortgagees, that mortgage insurance premiums be remitted electronically.
§ 207.253 Termination by prepayment and voluntary termination.
All rights under the insurance contract and all obligations to pay future insurance premiums shall terminate on the following conditions:
(a) Termination by prepayment. Notice of the prepayment in full of the mortgage or loan shall be given to the Commissioner, on a form prescribed by the Commissioner, within 30 days from the date of prepayment. The insurance contract shall terminate, effective as of the date of prepayment. No adjusted premium charge shall be due the Commissioner on account of such termination by prepayment.
(b) Termination by voluntary agreement. Receipt by the Commissioner of a written request, by the mortgagor and mortgagee or lender for termination of the insurance on the mortgage or loan, on a form prescribed by the Commissioner, accompanied by the original credit instrument for cancellation of the insurance endorsement and the remittance of all sums to which the Commissioner is entitled. The termination shall become effective as of the date these requirements are met. No voluntary termination charge shall be due the Commissioner on account of such termination by voluntary agreement.
(c) Upon termination of the mortgage or loan insurance contract by a payment in full or by a voluntary termination, the Commissioner shall refund to the mortgagee or lender for the account of the mortgagor or borrower an amount equal to the pro rata portion of the current annual mortgage insurance premium theretofore paid, which is applicable to the portion of the year subsequent to (1) the date of the prepayment or (2) the effective date of the voluntary termination of the contract of insurance.
(d) Notwithstanding any provision in the mortgage instrument, this section shall apply to all mortgage or loan insurance contracts terminated by either prepayment or voluntary termination where: (1) The mortgage is prepaid in full or (2) the Commissioner receives a request for voluntary termination, on or after May 1, 1972.
§ 207.253a Termination of insurance contract.
(a) Reason for termination. The happening of any of the following events shall constitute an additional reason for terminating the contract of insurance in cases where the mortgagee has elected to convey the property to the Commissioner:
(1) The acquisition by the mortgagee of the mortgaged property without conveying it to the Commissioner.
(2) The acquisition of the property at the foreclosure sale by a party other than the mortgagee.
(3) The redemption of the property after foreclosure.
(4) Notice given by the mortgagee after the foreclosure and during the redemption period that it will not tender the property to the Commissioner.
(b) Notice of termination. No contract of insurance shall be terminated until the mortgagee has given written notice thereof to the Commissioner within 30 days from the happening of any one of the events set forth in paragraph (a) of this section.
(c) Effective termination date. The Commissioner shall notify the mortgagee that the contract of insurance has been terminated and the effective termination date. The termination shall be effective as of the date any one of the events set forth in paragraph (a) of this section occur.
(d) Effect of termination. Upon termination of the contract of insurance the obligation to pay any subsequent MIP shall cease and all rights of the mortgagor and mortgagee shall be terminated.
Notice of future premium changes will be published in the
Rights and Duties of Mortgagee Under the Contract of Insurance
§ 207.255 Defaults for purposes of insurance claim.
(a)(1) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, the following shall be considered a default under the terms of a mortgage insured under this subpart:
(i) Failure of the mortgagor to make any payment due under the mortgage (also referred to as a “Monetary Event of Default” in certain mortgage security instruments); or
(ii) A material violation of any other covenant under the provisions of the mortgage, if because of such violation, the mortgagee has accelerated the debt, subject to any necessary HUD approval (also referred to as a “Covenant Event of Default” in certain mortgage security instruments).
(2) For purposes of a mortgagee filing an insurance claim with the Commissioner, the failure of the mortgagor to make any payment due under an operating loss loan or under the original mortgage shall be considered a default under both the operating loss loan and original mortgage.
(3) If a default as defined in paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2) of this section continues for a minimum period of 30 days, the mortgagee shall be entitled to receive the benefits of the insurance provided for the mortgage, subject to the procedures in this subpart.
(4) For the purposes of paragraph (a) of this section, the date of default shall be:
(i) The date of the first failure to make a monthly payment that subsequent payments by the mortgagor are insufficient to cover when those subsequent payments are applied by the mortgagee to the overdue monthly payments in the order in which they became due; or
(ii) The date of the first uncorrected violation of a covenant or obligation for which the mortgagee has accelerated the debt.
(5) For multifamily project mortgages for which HUD issued a firm commitment for mortgage insurance on or after September 1, 2011, the regulations of paragraph (a) of this section shall apply, unless the mortgagor demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Commissioner that financial hardship to the mortgagor would result from application of the regulations in paragraph (a) of this section due to the reasonable expectations of the mortgagor that the transaction would close under the regulations in effect prior to September 1, 2011, in which case, the regulations of paragraph (b) shall apply.
(b)(1) For multifamily project mortgages for which HUD issued a firm commitment for mortgage insurance before September 1, 2011, and for multifamily project mortgages insured under section 232 of the Act (12 U.S.C. 1715w), and section 242 of the Act (12 U.S.C. 1715z-7), the following shall be considered a default under the terms of a mortgage insured under this subpart:
(i) Failure of the mortgagor to make any payment due under the mortgage; or
(ii) Failure to perform any other covenant under the provisions of the mortgage, if the mortgagee, because of such failure, has accelerated the debt.
(2) In the case of an operating loss loan, the failure of the mortgagor to make any payment due under such loan or under the original mortgage shall be considered a default under both the loan and original mortgage.
(3) If such defaults, as defined in paragraph (b) of this section, continue for a period of 30 days the mortgagee shall be entitled to receive the benefits of the insurance hereinafter provided.
(4) Except for mortgages insured under section 232 of the Act, for the purposes of paragraph (b) of this section, the date of default shall be considered as:
(i) The date of the first uncorrected failure to perform a covenant or obligation; or
(ii) The date of the first failure to make a monthly payment which subsequent payments by the mortgagor are insufficient to cover when applied to the overdue monthly payments in the order in which they became due.
(5) For mortgages insured under section 232 of the Act, for purposes of this section, the date of default shall be considered as:
(i) The first date on which the borrower has failed to pay the debt when due as a result of the lender’s acceleration of the debt because of the borrower’s uncorrected failure to perform a covenant or obligation under the regulatory agreement or security instrument; or
(ii) The date of the first failure to make a monthly payment that subsequent payments by the borrower are insufficient to cover when applied to the overdue monthly payments in the order in which they become due.
§ 207.256 Notice to the Commissioner of default.
(a) If a default as defined in § 207.255(a) or (b) is not cured within the grace period of 30 days provided under § 207.255(a)(3) or (b)(3), the mortgagee must, within 30 days after the date of the end of the grace period, notify the Commissioner of the default, in the manner prescribed in 24 CFR part 200, subpart B.
(b) The mortgagee must give notice to the Commissioner, in the manner prescribed in 24 CFR part 200, subpart B, of the mortgagor’s violation of any covenant, whether or not the mortgagee has accelerated the debt.
§ 207.256a Reinstatement of defaulted mortgage.
If, after default and prior to the completion of foreclosure proceedings, the mortgagor cures the default, the insurance shall continue on the mortgage as if a default had not occurred, provided the mortgagee gives notice of reinstatement to the Commissioner, in the manner prescribed in 24 CFR part 200, subpart B.
§ 207.256b Modification of mortgage terms.
(a) The mortgagor and the mortgagee may, with the approval of the Commissioner, enter into an agreement that extends the time for curing a default under the mortgage or modifies the payment terms of the mortgage.
(b)(1) Except as provided in paragraph (b)(2), the Commissioner’s approval of the type of agreement specified in paragraph (a) of this section shall not be given, unless the mortgagor agrees in writing that, during such period as the mortgage continues to be in default, and payments by the mortgagor to the mortgagee are less than the amounts required under the terms of the original mortgage, the mortgagor or mortgagee, as may be appropriate in the particular situation, will hold in trust for disposition, as directed by the Commissioner, all rents or other funds derived from the secured property that are not required to meet actual and necessary expenses arising in connection with the operation of such property, including amortization charges, under the mortgage.
(2) For multifamily project mortgages for which HUD issued a firm commitment for mortgage insurance before September 1, 2011, and for multifamily project mortgages insured under section 232 of the Act (12 U.S.C. 1715w), and section 242 (12 U.S.C. 1715z-7), the Commissioner’s approval of the type of agreement specified in paragraph (a) of this section shall not be given unless the mortgagor agrees in writing that, during such period as payments to the mortgagee are less than the amounts required under the terms of the original mortgage, the mortgagor will hold in trust for disposition as directed by the Commissioner all rents or other funds derived from the property which are not required to meet actual and necessary expenses arising in connection with the operation of such property, including amortization charges, under the mortgage.
(3) For multifamily project mortgages for which HUD issued a firm commitment for mortgage insurance on or after September 1, 2011, the regulations of paragraph (b)(1) of this section shall apply, unless the mortgagor demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Commissioner that financial hardship to the mortgagor would result from application of the regulations in paragraph (b)(1) of this section due to the reasonable expectations of the mortgagor that the transaction would close under the regulations in effect prior to September 1, 2011, in which case, the regulations of paragraph (b)(2) shall apply.
(c) The Commissioner may exempt a mortgagor from the requirement of paragraph (b) of this section in any case where the Commissioner determines that such exemption does not jeopardize the interests of the United States.
§ 207.257 Commissioner’s right to require acceleration.
Upon receipt of notice of violation of a covenant, as provided for in § 207.256(b), or otherwise being apprised of the violation of a covenant, the Commissioner reserves the right to require the mortgagee to accelerate payment of the outstanding principal balance due in order to protect the interests of the Commissioner.
§ 207.258 Insurance claim requirements.
(a) Alternative election by mortgagee. (1) When the mortgagee becomes eligible to receive mortgage insurance benefits pursuant to § 207.255(a)(3) or (b)(3), the mortgagee must, within 45 calendar days after the date of eligibility, such period is referred to as the “Eligibility Notice Period” for purposes of this section, give the Commissioner notice of its intention to file an insurance claim and of its election either to assign the mortgage to the Commissioner, as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, or to acquire and convey title to the Commissioner, as provided in paragraph (c) of this section. Notice of this election must be provided to the Commissioner in the manner prescribed in 24 CFR part 200, subpart B. HUD may extend the Eligibility Notice Period at the request of the mortgagee under the following conditions:
(i) The request must be made to and approved by HUD prior to the 45th day after the date of eligibility; and
(ii) The approval of an extension shall in no way prejudice the mortgagee’s right to file its notice of its intention to file an insurance claim and of its election either to assign the mortgage to the Commissioner or to acquire and convey title to the Commissioner within the 45-day period or any extension prescribed by the Commissioner.
(2) For mortgages funded with the proceeds of state or local bonds, Ginnie Mae mortgage-backed securities, participation certificates, or other bond obligations specified by the Commissioner (such as an agreement under which the insured mortgagee has obtained the mortgage funds from third-party investors and has agreed in writing to repay such investors at a stated interest rate and in accordance with a fixed repayment schedule), any of which contains a lock-out or prepayment premium, in the event of a default during the term of the prepayment lock-out or prepayment premium, and for any mortgage insured under section 232 of the Act, the mortgagee must:
(i) Request a 90-day extension of the deadline for filing the notice of the mortgagee’s intention to file an insurance claim and the mortgagee’s election to assign the mortgage or acquire and convey title in accordance with the mortgagee certificate, which HUD may further extend at the written request of the mortgagee;
(ii) Assist the mortgagor in arranging refinancing to cure the default and avert an insurance claim, if the Commissioner grants the requested (or a shorter) extension of notice filing deadline;
(iii) Report to the Commissioner at least monthly on any progress in arranging refinancing;
(iv) Cooperate with the Commissioner in taking reasonable steps in accordance with prudent business practices to avoid an insurance claim;
(v) Require successors or assigns to certify in writing that they agree to be bound by these conditions for the remainder of the term of the prepayment lock-out or prepayment premium; and
(vi) After commencement of amortization of the refinanced mortgage, notify HUD of a delinquency when a payment is not received by the 10th day after the date the payment is due.
(3) For multifamily project mortgages for which HUD issued a firm commitment for mortgage insurance on or after September 1, 2011, the regulations of paragraph (a)(2) of this section shall apply, unless the mortgagor demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Commissioner that financial hardship to the mortgagor would result from application of the regulations in paragraph (a)(2) of this section due to the reasonable expectations of the mortgagor that the transaction would close under the regulations in effect prior to September 1, 2011, in which case, the regulations of paragraph (a)(2) shall not apply.
(4) Acknowledgment of election. For mortgages insured pursuant to section 232 of the Act, if the lender provides notice to the Commissioner of its election either to assign the mortgage to the Commissioner or to acquire and convey title to the Commissioner, the Commissioner shall, not later than 90 calendar days after the expiration of the Eligibility Notice Period, as defined in paragraph (a)(1) of this section, as the same may have been extended, acknowledge and accept, or reject for cause, pursuant to program requirements, the lender’s election, provided that the Commissioner may, in the Commissioner’s discretion, extend such 90-day period by no more than an additional 90 calendar days if the Commissioner determines that such an extension is in HUD’s interest.
(b) Assignment of mortgage to Commissioner – (1) Timeframe; request for extension. (i) If the mortgagee elects to assign the mortgage to the Commissioner, the mortgagee shall, at any time within 30 calendar days after the date HUD acknowledges the notice of election, file its application for insurance benefits and assign to the Commissioner, in such manner as the Commissioner may require, any applicable credit instrument and the realty and chattel security instruments.
(ii) The Commissioner may extend this 30-day period by written notice that a partial payment of insurance claim under § 207.258b is being considered. A mortgagee may consider failure to receive a notice of an extension approval by the end of the 30-day time period a denial of the request for an extension.
(iii) The extension shall be for such term, not to exceed 60 days, as the Commissioner prescribes; however, the Commissioner’s consideration of a partial payment of claim, or the Commissioner’s request that a mortgagee accept partial payment of a claim in accordance with § 207.258b, shall in no way prejudice the mortgagee’s right to file its application for full insurance benefits within either the 30-day period or any extension prescribed by the Commissioner.
(iv) The requirements of paragraphs (b)(2) through (b)(6) of this section shall also be met by the mortgagee.
(2) Notice of assignment. On the date the assignment of the mortgage is filed for record, the mortgagee must notify the Commissioner, in the manner prescribed in 24 CFR part 200, subpart B, of such assignment, and must also notify the FHA Comptroller by telegram of such recordation.
(3) Warranty of mortgagee. The assignment shall be made without recourse or warranty, except that the mortgagee shall warrant that:
(i) No act or omission of the mortgagee has impaired the validity and priority of the mortgage.
(ii) The mortgage is prior to all mechanics’ and materialmen’s liens filed on record subsequent to the recording of the mortgage, regardless of whether such liens attached prior to the recording date.
(iii) The mortgage is prior to all liens and encumbrances which may have attached or defects which may have arisen subsequent to the recording of the mortgage, except such liens or other matters as may be approved by the Commissioner.
(iv) The amount stated in the instrument of assignment is actually due under the mortgage and there are no offsets or counterclaims against such amount.
(v) The mortgagee has a good right to assign the mortgage.
(4) Chattel lien warranty. In assigning its security interest in chattels, including materials, located on the premises covered by the mortgage, or its security interest in building components stored either on-site or off-site at the time of the assignment, the mortgagee shall warrant that:
(i) No act or omission of the mortgagee has impaired the validity or priority of the lien created by the chattel security instruments; and
(ii) The mortgagee has a good right to assign the security instruments; and
(iii) The chattel security instruments are a first lien on the items covered by the instruments except for such other liens or encumbrances as may be approved by the Commissioner.
(5) Items delivered by mortgagee. The mortgagee shall deliver to the Commissioner, within 45 days after the assignment is filed for record, the items enumerated below:
(i) An assignment of all claims of the mortgagee against the mortgagor or others arising out of the mortgage transaction.
(ii) All policies of title or other insurance or surety bonds or other guaranties, and any and all claims thereunder, including evidence satisfactory to the Commissioner that the effective date of the original title coverage has been extended to include the assignment of the mortgage to the Commissioner.
(iii) All records, ledger cards, documents, books, papers, and accounts relating to the mortgage transaction.
(iv) All property of the mortgagor held by the mortgagee or to which it is entitled (other than the cash items which are to be retained by the mortgagee) pursuant to paragraph (b)(5) of this section.
(v) Any additional information or data which the Commissioner may require.
(6) Disposition of cash items. The following cash items shall either be retained by the mortgagee or delivered to the Commissioner in accordance with instructions to be issued by the Commissioner at the time the insurance claim is filed:
(i) Any balance of the mortgage loan not advanced to the mortgagor.
(ii) Any cash held by the mortgagee or its agents or to which it is entitled, including deposits made for the account of the mortgagor, and which have not been applied in reduction of the principal of the mortgage indebtedness.
(iii) All funds held by the mortgagee for the account of the mortgagor received pursuant to any other agreement.
(iv) The amount of any undrawn balance under a letter of credit used in lieu of a cash deposit.
(c) Conveyance of title to Commissioner. If the mortgagee elects to acquire and convey title to the Commissioner, the following requirements shall be met:
(1) Alternative actions by mortgagee. At any time within a period of 30 days after the date of the notice of such election, the mortgagee shall take one of the alternative actions in paragraph (c) (2) or (3) of this section.
(2) Foreclosure of mortgage. The mortgagee may elect to commence foreclosure proceedings. If the laws of the State where the property is located do not permit institution of foreclosure within such 30-day period, foreclosure shall be commenced not less than 30 days after such action can be taken. Under such proceedings, the mortgagee shall take one of the following actions:
(i) Obtain possession of the mortgaged property and the income therefrom through the voluntary surrender thereof by the mortgagor.
(ii) Institute and prosecute with reasonable diligence, proceedings for the appointment of a receiver to manage the mortgaged property and collect income therefrom.
(iii) Proceed to exercise such other rights and remedies as may be available to it for the protection and preservation of the mortgaged property and to obtain the income therefrom under the mortgage and the law of the particular jurisdiction.
(iv) With the prior approval of the Commissioner, exercise the power of sale under a deed of trust.
(3) Acquisition of title and possession. The mortgagee, with the approval of the Commissioner, may elect to acquire possession of, and title to, the mortgaged property by means other than foreclosure. With the prior approval of the Commissioner, title may be transferred directly to the Commissioner.
(4) Notice of foreclosure. The mortgagee shall given written notice to the Commissioner within 30 days after the institution of foreclosure proceedings and shall exercise reasonable diligence in prosecuting such proceedings to completion. Any developments which might delay the consummation of such proceedings shall be promptly reported to the Commissioner.
(5) Transfer by mortgagee. After acquiring title to and possession of the property, the mortgagee shall (within 30 days of such acquisition) transfer title and possession of the property to the Commissioner. The transfer shall be made in such manner as the Commissioner may require. On the date the deed is filed for record, the mortgagee shall notify the Commissioner on a form prescribed by him of the filing of such conveyance, and shall also notify the FHA Assistant Commissioner-Comptroller by telegram of such recordation.
(6) Filing of deed and application. The mortgagee shall file its application for insurance benefits at the time of filing for record of the deed conveying the property to the Commissioner.
(7) Deed covenants and documents. The deed conveying the property to the Commissioner shall contain covenants satisfactory to the Commissioner. The original deed shall be forwarded to the Commissioner as soon as received from the recording authority. The following documents shall be forwarded with the deed:
(i) A bill of sale covering any personal property to which the mortgagee is entitled by reason of the mortgage transaction or by the acceptance of a deed in lieu of foreclosure.
(ii) An assignment of all claims of the mortgagee against the mortgagor or others arising out of the mortgage transaction and out of the foreclosure proceedings or other means by which the property was acquired.
(iii) An assignment of any claims on account of title insurance and fire or other hazard insurance, except claims which have been released with the prior approval of the Commissioner.
(8) Title evidence. Evidence of title, satisfactory to the Commissioner and meeting the requirements of § 207.258a shall be furnished to the Commissioner (without expense to him) within 45 days of the filing for record of the deed conveying the property to him.
(9) Disposition of cash items. The provisions of paragraph (b)(4) of this section, relating to the retention or delivery of cash items, shall be applicable to cases involving the conveyance of property to the Commissioner.
§ 207.258a Title requirements.
(a) Form of title evidence. The title evidence submitted with a conveyance of the property to the Commissioner shall be in the form of an owner’s policy of title insurance, except that, if an abstract and attorney’s opinion were accepted by the Commissioner at the time of insurance, the title evidence may be in such form. The title evidence shall be effective on or after the date of the recording of the conveyance to the Commissioner.
(b) Content of title evidence. To be satisfactory to the Commissioner, the title evidence covering the property conveyed to him shall show the same title vested in the Commissioner as was vested in the mortgagor as of the date of the mortgage was filed for record, with the exception of such liens or other matters affecting the title as may be approved by the Commissioner.
§ 207.258b Partial payment of claim.
(a) Whenever the Commissioner receives notice under § 207.258 of a mortgagee’s intention to file an insurance claim and to assign the mortgage to the Commissioner, the Commissioner may request the mortgagee, in lieu of assignment, to accept partial payment of the claim under the mortgage insurance contract and to recast the mortgage, under such terms and conditions as the Commissioner may determine.
(b) The Commissioner may request the mortgagee to participate in a partial payment of claim in lieu of assignment only after a determination that partial payment would be less costly to the Federal government than other reasonable alternatives for maintaining the low- and moderate-income character of the project. This determination shall be based upon the findings listed below and such other findings as the Commissioner deems appropriate:
(1) The mortgagee is entitled, under § 207.255, to assign the mortgage in exchange for the payment of insurance benefits;
(2) The relief resulting from partial payment, when considered with other resources available to the project, would be sufficient to restore the financial viability of the project;
(3) The project is, or can at reasonable cost be made, structurally sound;
(4) The management of the project is satisfactory to the Commissioner; and
(5) The default under the insured mortgage was beyond the control of the mortgagor.
(c) Partial payment of a claim under this section shall be made only when:
(1) The project is, or potentially could serve as, a low- and moderate-income housing resource;
(2) The property covered by the mortgage is free and clear of all liens other than the insured first mortgage and such other liens as the Commissioner may have approved;
(3) The mortgagee has voluntarily agreed to accept partial payment of the insurance claim under the mortgage insurance contract and to recast the remaining mortgage amount under terms and conditions prescribed by the Commissioner; and
(4) The mortgagor has agreed to repay to the Commissioner an amount equal to the partial payment, with the obligation secured by a second mortgage on the project containing terms and conditions prescribed by the Commissioner. The terms of the second mortgage will be determined on a case-by-case basis to assure that the estimated project income will be sufficient to cover estimated operating expenses and debt service on the recast insured mortgage. The Commissioner may provide for postponed amortization of the second mortgage.
(d) Payment of insurance benefits under this section shall be in cash. The Commissioner shall waive the deduction of one percent of the mortgage funds advanced to the mortgagor, provided for in § 207.259(b)(2)(iv), with respect to a partial payment of a claim under this section. The items referred to in § 207.258(b)(4) shall either be retained by the mortgagee or delivered to the Commissioner in accordance with instructions to be issued by the Commissioner with respect to a partial payment of claim under this section.
(e) Lenders receiving a partial payment of claim following the Commissioner’s endorsement of the Mortgage for full insurance under parts 251, 252, or 255 of this chapter, will pay HUD a fee in an amount set forth through
§ 207.259 Insurance benefits.
(a) Method of payment. (1) Upon either an assignment of the mortgage to the Commissioner or a conveyance of the property to the Commissioner in accordance with requirements in § 207.258, payment of an insurance claim shall be made in cash, in debentures, or in a combination of both, as determined by the Commissioner either at, or prior to, the time of payment.
(2) An insurance claim paid on a mortgage insured under section 223(e) of the National Housing Act shall be paid in cash from the Special Risk Insurance Fund.
(b) Amount of payment; assignment of mortgage. If the mortgage is assigned to the Commissioner, the insurance benefits shall be paid in an amount determined as follows:
(1) By adding to the unpaid principal amount of the mortgage, computed as of the date of default, the following items:
(i) The amount of all payments made by the mortgagee for taxes, special assessments and water rates which are liens prior to the mortgage; for insurance on the property; and for any mortgage insurance premiums paid after default.
(ii) An allowance for reasonable payments made by the mortgagee, with the approval of the Commissioner, for the completion and preservation of the property.
(iii) An amount equivalent to the debenture interest which would have been earned on the portion of the insurance benefits paid in cash, as of the date such cash payment is made, except that when the mortgagee fails to meet any one of the applicable requirements of §§ 207.256 and 207.258 within the specified time and in a manner satisfactory to the Commissioner (or within such further time as the Commissioner may approve in writing), the interest allowance in such cash payment shall be computed only to the date on which the particular required action should have been taken or to which it was extended.
(2) By deducting from the total of the items computed under paragraph (b)(1) of this section, the following items:
(i) Any amount received by the mortgagee on account of the mortgage after the date of default.
(ii) Any net income received by the mortgagee from the property covered by the mortgage after the date of default.
(iii) The sum of the cash items retained by the mortgagee pursuant to § 207.258(b)(6), except the balance of the mortgage loan not advanced to the mortgagor.
(iv) An amount equivalent to 1 percent of the mortgage funds advanced to the mortgagor and not repaid as of the date of default, except that all or part of the 1 percent may be waived by the Commissioner if, at his request and in lieu of foreclosure, the mortgage is assigned to the Secretary.
(v) In the case of a lender receiving insurance benefits for the full Mortgage amount upon the Commissioner’s endorsement of the Mortgage for full insurance pursuant to 24 CFR parts 251, 252, or 255, the amount of the fee set forth through
(vi) Except for multifamily project mortgages for which HUD issued a firm commitment for mortgage insurance before September 1, 2011, and for multifamily project mortgages insured under section 232 of the Act (12 U.S.C. 1715w) and under section 242 of the Act (12 U.S.C. 1715z-7), when there is a covenant default as defined in § 207.255(a)(1)(ii) and a mortgagee refuses to comply promptly with the Commissioner’s request to accelerate payment pursuant to § 207.257, an amount equal to the difference between the project’s market value as of the date of the Commissioner’s request and the project’s market value as of the date the mortgagee makes an election to assign the mortgage, or convey title to the project, as determined by appraisal procedures established by the Commissioner.
(vii) For multifamily project mortgages for which HUD issued a firm commitment for mortgage insurance on or after September 1, 2011, the regulations of paragraph (b)(2)(vi) of this section shall apply, unless the mortgagor demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Commissioner that financial hardship to the mortgagor would result from application of the regulations in paragraph (b)(2)(vi) of this section due to the reasonable expectations of the mortgagor that the transaction would close under the regulations in effect prior to September 1, 2011, in which case, the regulations of paragraph (b)(2)(vi) shall not apply.
(c) Amount of payment; conveyance of property. If the property is conveyed to the Commissioner, the insurance benefits shall be paid in an amount determined in accordance with paragraph (b) of this section, except that the item set forth in paragraph (b)(2)(iv) of this section shall not be deducted.
(d) Issuance of certificate of claim. In addition to the insurance benefits paid under paragraph (b) or (c) of this section, a certificate of claim shall be issued to the mortgagee.
(1) In the case of an assignment of the mortgage, the certificate shall be for an amount which the Commissioner determines to be sufficient, when added to the amount of the insurance benefits to equal the amount the mortgagee would have received if, on the date of assignment to the Commissioner, the mortgagor had paid in full all obligations under the mortgage. Where a conveyance is involved, there shall also be included in the certificate an allowance in a reasonable amount for any necessary expenses incurred by the mortgagee in connection with the foreclosure proceedings or the acquisition of the mortgaged property otherwise and in connection with the conveyance of the property to the Commissioner.
(2) The certificate of claim shall provide for an uncompounded annual interest increment of 3 percent to begin as of the date of either assignment or conveyance.
(e) Issuance of debentures. Where debentures are issued, they shall meet the following requirements:
(1) Be issued as of the date of default.
(2) Be registered as to principal and interest.
(3) At the option of the Commissioner and with the approval of the Secretary of the Treasury, be redeemable at par plus accrued interest on any semiannual interest payment date on 3 months’ notice of redemption given in such manner as the Commissioner shall prescribe. The debenture interest on the debentures called for redemption shall cease on the semiannual interest payment date designated in the call notice. The Commissioner may include with the notice of redemption an offer to purchase the debentures at par plus accrued interest at any time during the period between the notice of redemption and the redemption date. If the debentures are purchased by the Commissioner after such call and prior to the named redemption date, the debenture interest shall cease on the date of purchase.
(4) Mature 20 years from the date thereof.
(5) Be issued in such forms and amounts; and be subject to such terms and conditions; and include such provisions for redemption, if any, as may be prescribed by the Secretary, with the approval of the Secretary of the Treasury; and may be in book entry or certificated registered form, or such other form as the Secretary by regulation may prescribe.
(6) Bear interest from the date of issue, payable semiannually on the first day of January and the first day of July of each year at the rate in effect as of the date the commitment was issued, or as of the date of initial insurance endorsement of the mortgage, whichever rate is higher. The applicable rates of interest will be published twice each year as a notice in the
(7) Debentures representing the portion of the claim applicable to an operating loss loan shall bear interest at the rate in effect as of the date the commitment to insure such loan was issued, or as of the date of endorsement for insurance of such loan, whichever rate is the higher, although debentures representing the portion of the claim applicable to the original mortgage may bear interest at a different rate.
(f) Mortgagee Time Limits for Supplemental Claims for Additional Insurance Benefits. A mortgagee may not file for any additional payments of its mortgage insurance claim more than six months after the date of final settlement of the insurance claim by the Commissioner. For the purpose of this section, the term final settlement shall mean the payment of the insurance claim (in cash or debentures) or billing for any overpayment of a partial claim that is made by the Commissioner. Final settlement is based upon the submission by the mortgagee of all required documents and information pursuant to part 207 of this chapter.
§ 207.259a Waiver of title objection; mortgages formerly Commissioner-held.
If the Commissioner sells a mortgage and such mortgage is later reassigned to him in exchange for debentures or the property covered by such mortgage is later conveyed to him in exchange for debentures, the Commissioner will not object to title by reason of any lien or other adverse interest that was senior to the mortgage on the date of the original sale of such mortgage by the Commissioner.
§ 207.260 Maintenance and inspection of property.
As long as the mortgage is insured or held by the Commissioner, the mortgagor must maintain the insured project in accordance with the physical condition requirements in 24 CFR part 5, subpart G; and the mortgagee must inspect the project in accordance with the physical inspection requirements in 24 CFR part 5, subpart G.
§ 207.261 Capturing excess bond proceeds.
(a) A mortgagee that finances multifamily housing or healthcare facilities insured under Title II of the National Housing Act through the issuance and sale of bonds or bond anticipation notes and uses a project-specific trust indenture agreement, that clearly outlines the project and identifies by project the trust funds established by and administered in accordance with the terms of the trust indenture, shall:
(1) Include the following clause in the trust indenture: In the event of an assignment or conveyance of the mortgage to the Commissioner, subsequent to the issuance of the bonds, all money remaining in all funds and accounts other than the rebate fund, and any other funds remaining under the trust indenture after payment or provision for payment of debt service on the bonds and the fees and expenses of the credit enhancer, issuer, trustee, and other such parties unrelated to the mortgagor (other than funds originally deposited by the mortgagor or related parties on or before the date of issuance of the bonds) shall be returned to the mortgagee.
(2) Upon the Commissioner’s payment of an FHA mortgage insurance claim under § 207.259, the mortgagee shall take all legally-entitled actions to enforce the clause required by paragraph (a)(1) of this section and pay the Commissioner any trust funds remaining after discharge by the trustee of all obligations of the trust indenture, no later than 6 months after the date of the Commissioner’s final settlement of the FHA mortgage insurance claim.
(b) For purposes of paragraph (a) of this section, the term “rebate fund” means a separate fund established under a contract or agreement for tax-exempt bonds in which amounts (excess interest earnings from the tax-exempt bonds) must be deposited to make rebate payments to the federal government under the Internal Revenue Code.
Rights in Housing Fund
§ 207.263 Responsibility for servicing.
After January 10, 1994, servicing of insured mortgages must be performed by a mortgagee which is approved by HUD to service insured mortgages.
Amendments
§ 207.499 Effect of amendments.
The regulations in this subpart may be amended by the Commissioner at any time and from time to time, in whole or in part, but such amendment shall not adversely affect the interests of a mortgagee or lender under the contract of insurance on any mortgage or loan already insured and shall not adversely affect the interests of a mortgagee or lender on any mortgage or loan to be insured on which the Commissioner has made a commitment to insure.
PART 208 – ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSION OF REQUIRED DATA FOR CERTIFICATION AND RECERTIFICATION AND SUBSIDY BILLING PROCEDURES FOR MULTIFAMILY SUBSIDIZED PROJECTS
§ 208.101 Purpose.
The purpose of this part is to require owners of subsidized multifamily projects to electronically submit certain data to HUD for the programs listed in § 208.104. This electronically submitted data is required by HUD Forms, Owner’s Certification of Compliance with Tenant’s Eligibility and Rent Procedure, Worksheets to Compute Tenant Payment/Rent (Form HUD-50059 and 50059 Worksheets), and the Monthly Subsidy Billing Forms, Housing Owner’s Certification and Application for Housing Assistance Payments (HUD-52670), Schedule of Tenant Assistance Payments Due (HUD-52670A, Part 1), Schedule of section 8 Special Claims (HUD-52670A, Part 2), and Special Claims Worksheets, HUD-52671 A through D), as applicable.
§ 208.104 Applicability.
(a) This part applies to HUD administered subsidized multifamily projects, either insured or non-insured, under:
(1) The section 236 Interest Reduction and Rental Assistance Payments program;
(2) The section 8 Housing Assistance Payments Programs, including, but not limited to, section 8 Housing Assistance Payments Programs for New Construction (24 CFR part 880), section 8 Housing Assistance Payments Program for Substantial Rehabilitation (24 CFR part 881), section 8 Housing Assistance Payments Program, New Construction Set-Aside for section 515 Rural Rental Housing Projects (24 CFR part 884); Loans for Housing for the Elderly or Handicapped (24 CFR part 885) and section 8 Loan Management and Property Disposition Set-aside program (24 CFR part 886);
(3) The section 221(d)(3) Below Market Interest Rate Housing for Low and Moderate Income Mortgage Insurance program (24 CFR part 221); and
(4) The section 101 Rent Supplement program (24 CFR part 215).
(b) This part applies to those multifamily projects having subsidy contracts, either insured or non-insured, where State housing finance and development agencies and other Public Housing Agencies are the subsidy contract administrator under:
(1) The section 236 Interest Reduction and Rental Assistance Payments program (24 CFR part 236);
(2) The section 8 Housing Assistance Payments Programs, including, but not limited to, section 8 Housing Assistance Payments Program for New Construction (24 CFR part 880), section 8 Housing Assistance Payments Program for Substantial Rehabilitation (24 CFR part 881), and section 8 Housing Assistance Payments Program, New Construction Set-Aside for section 515 Rural Rental Housing Projects (24 CFR part 884);
(3) The section 221(d)(3) Below Market Interest Rate Housing for Low and Moderate Income Mortgage Insurance Program (24 CFR part 221); and
(4) The section 101 Rent Supplement program (24 CFR part 215).
(c) This part applies to all other subsidized section 202 projects, which include: section 202 projects with rent supplement or loan management set aside, section 202 projects with section 162 assistance, and section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly. This part also applies to section 811 Supportive Housing for Persons With Disabilities.
(d) This part does not apply to the section 8 Existing Housing Program or the Moderate Rehabilitation program.
§ 208.108 Requirements.
(a) Projects specified in § 208.104(a) that are automated. Project owners of applicable projects under § 208.104(a) who currently use an automated software package to process certifications and recertifications and to provide subsidy billings to HUD must update their software packages and begin electronic transmission of that data in a HUD specified format by March 21, 1994. These project owners are required to transmit data collected for the 12 months preceding March 21, 1994, as well as data collected on or after this date. Data collected for the 12 months preceding March 21, 1994, is to include only the tenant’s most recent “complete certification” (move-in, initial certification, interim recertification, or annual recertification). When the most recent certification for a tenant is a partial certification (gross rent change, unit transfer, or correction), both the complete and partial certifications must be transmitted.
(b) Projects specified in § 208.104(a) that are not automated. Nonautomated project owners and agents (those owners and agents that currently prepare the certification, recertification, and subsidy billing forms manually) of applicable projects under § 208.104(a) must:
(1) Complete the search and either obtain the necessary hardware or software, or sign service contracts;
(2) Complete their data loading; and
(3) Begin electronic transmission by May 20, 1994. These project owners are required to transmit data collected for the 12 months preceding May 20, 1994, as well as data collected on or after this date. Data collected for the 12 months preceding May 20, 1994, is to include only the tenant’s most recent “complete certification” (move-in, initial certification, interim recertification, or annual recertification). When the most recent certification for a tenant is a partial certification (gross rent change, unit transfer, or correction), both the complete and partial certifications must be transmitted.
(c) Projects specified in § 208.104(b) – (1) Project owners. Project owners of applicable projects under § 208.104(b) must electronically transmit data for certification, recertification and subsidy billing procedures in a HUD specified format to the contract administrator. These project owners are required to transmit data collected for the 12 months preceding September 23, 1994, as well as data collected on or after that date. Data collected for the 12 months preceding September 23, 1994 is to include only the tenant’s most recent “complete certification” (move-in, initial certification, interim recertification, or annual recertification). When the most recent certification for a tenant is a partial certification (gross rent change, unit transfer, or correction), both the complete and partial certifications must be transmitted.
(2) Contract administrators. State housing finance and development agencies and Public Housing Agencies that serve as the subsidy contract administrator must accept the electronic transmission of the HUD forms listed below in § 208.108(e) from the projects they administer, and electronically transmit that data to HUD in a HUD specified format after appropriate review and correction of the data.
(d) Projects specified in § 208.104(c). Project owners of applicable projects under § 208.104(c) must electronically transmit data for certification, recertification and subsidy billing procedures to HUD in a HUD specified format. In the case of partially assisted section 202 projects, owners are required to electronically transmit data only for subsidized units. These project owners are required to transmit data collected for the 12 months preceding the effective date of the rule, as well as data collected on or after the effective date of the rule. Data collected for the 12 months preceding September 23, 1994 is to include only the tenant’s most recent “complete certification” (move-in, initial certification, interim recertification, or annual recertification). When the most recent certification for a tenant is a partial certification (gross rent change, unit transfer, or correction), both the complete and partial certifications must be transmitted.
(e) Data to be transmitted. Electronic transmission consists of data transmitted from the HUD-50059, 50059 worksheets, 52670 and 52670A, Parts 1 and 2 and 52671 A through D correctly formatted in accord with the HUD data requirements and in lieu of the hard copy forms.
§ 208.112 Cost.
(a) The costs of the electronic transmission of the correctly formatted data, including either the purchase and maintenance of computer hardware or software, or both, the cost of contracting for those services, or the cost of centralizing the electronic transmission function, shall be considered project operating costs to be paid from project income, and considered project operating costs for the purpose of processing and approving requests for HUD approval of rent increases.
(b) At the owner’s option, the cost of the computer software may include service contracts to provide maintenance or training, or both. Regardless of whether an owner obtains service contracts to provide maintenance or training or both, the software must be updated to incorporate changes or revisions in legislation, regulations, handbooks, notices or HUD electronic transmission data format requirements.
(c) The source of funds for the purchase of hardware or software, or contracting for services for electronic transmission, may include current project operating income; an expense item in processing rent increases; a loan from the Reserve for Replacement Account, or a release from the Residual Receipts Account.
(d) A loan from the Reserve for Replacements Account must be repaid within a five year period from the release date.
(e) Owners of smaller projects or partially assisted projects with few subsidized units and CAs that administer no more than one project that determine that the purchase of hardware and/or software is not cost effective may contract out the electronic data transmission function to organizations that provide such services, including, but not limited to the following organizations: local management agents, local management associations and management agents with centralized facilities. Owners of multiple projects may centralize the electronic transmission function. However, owners that contract out or centralize the electronic transmission function are required to retain the ability to monitor the day-to-day operations of the project at the project site and be able to demonstrate that ability to the relevant HUD field office.
PART 213 – COOPERATIVE HOUSING MORTGAGE INSURANCE
Subpart A – Eligibility Requirements – Projects
§ 213.1 Eligibility requirements.
The eligibility requirements set forth in 24 CFR part 200, subpart A, apply to multifamily project mortgages insured under section 213 of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1715e), as amended.
Subpart B – Contract Rights and Obligations – Projects
§ 213.251 Cross-reference.
(a) All of the provisions of subpart B, part 207 of this chapter covering mortgages insured under section 207 of the National Housing Act, apply with full force and effect to mortgages insured under section 213 of the National Housing Act, except the following provisions:
(b) For the purposes of this subpart, all references in part 207 of this chapter to section 207 of the National Housing Act shall be deemed to refer to section 213 of the Act, and all references in part 207 of this chapter to the General Insurance Fund shall be deemed to refer to the Cooperative Management Housing Insurance Fund in cases involving mortgages which are the obligation of the Cooperative Management Housing Insurance Fund.
(c) The provisions of §§ 207.255, 207.256, 207.257, 207.261, 207.262 and 207.263 of this chapter shall apply to supplementary loans insured under section 213(j) of the Act. In connection with the foregoing provisions the terms mortgagor, mortgagee, mortgage shall be construed to mean borrower, lender, and supplementary loan, including required security instrument.
(d) Where the provisions of this subpart are applicable to supplementary loans, the terms mortgagor, mortgagee, mortgage, shall be construed to mean borrower, lender, and supplementary loan, including required security instrument.
(e) Where the provisions of this subpart are applicable to operating loss loans, the terms mortgagor, mortgagee and mortgage shall be construed to mean borrower, lender and operating loss loan, including required security instrument, respectively.
§ 213.252 Definitions.
The definitions contained in § 213.1 shall apply to this subpart and in addition the following terms shall have the meaning indicated.
(a) Contract of Insurance means the agreement evidenced by endorsement of the credit instrument by the Commissioner or his duly authorized representative and includes the terms, conditions and provisions of this subpart and of the National Housing Act.
(b) Insured mortgage means a mortgage which has been insured by the endorsement of the credit instrument by the Commissioner.
(c) Mortgage means such a first lien upon real estate and other property as is commonly given to secure advances on, or the unpaid purchase price of, real estate under the laws of the State, district or territory in which the real estate is located, together with the credit instrument or instruments, if any, secured thereby. In any instance where an operating loss loan is involved, the term shall include both the original mortgage and the instrument securing the operating loss loan.
(d) Mortgagee means the original lender under a mortgage, its successors and such of its assigns as are approved by the Commissioner, and includes the holders of the credit instruments issued under a trust indenture, mortgage or deed of trust pursuant to which such holders act by and through a trustee therein named.
(e) Mortgagor means the original borrower under a mortgage and its successors and such of its assigns as are approved by the Commissioner.
(f) Project Mortgage means a blanket mortgage insured under section 213 of the Act, covering a group of not less than five single-family dwellings.
§ 213.253 Premiums upon initial endorsement.
(a) Management and Sales Types and Investor Sponsored Projects. The mortgagee, upon the initial endorsement of the mortgage for insurance, shall pay to the Commissioner a first mortgage insurance premium equal to one-half of one percent of the original face amount of the mortgage.
(b) Purchasing cooperatives. The provisions of paragraph (a) of this section do not apply to the mortgage or a purchasing nonprofit cooperative housing corporation or trust where such mortgage is endorsed for insurance pursuant to the sale of an Investor Sponsored Project to such purchasing nonprofit cooperative housing corporation or trust.
(c) Existing Construction. The provisions of paragraph (a) of the section shall apply to a mortgage covering Existing Construction which involves insurance of advances for Commissioner approved or required repairs, improvements, alterations and additions.
(d) Operating loss loans and supplementary loans. The provisions of paragraph (a) of this section shall apply to any operating loss loan and to any supplementary loan, except a supplementary loan to finance the acquisition of an existing community facility.
§ 213.254 Premiums where first principal payment more than one year after initial endorsement.
(a) Management and Sales Types and Investor Sponsored Projects. (1) If the date of the first principal payment is more than one year following the date of such initial insurance endorsement, the mortgagee, upon the anniversary of such insurance date, shall pay a second premium equal to one-half of one percent of the original face amount of the mortgage. On the date of the first principal payment, the mortgagee shall pay a third premium equal to one-half of one percent of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the following year which shall be adjusted so as to accord with such date and so that the aggregate of the first, second and third premiums shall equal the sum of:
(i) One percent of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the year following the date of initial insurance endorsement, and
(ii) One-half of one percent per annum of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the period from the first anniversary of the date of initial insurance endorsement to one year following the date of the first principal payment.
(2) If the date of the first principal payment of a mortgage is more than one year following the date of the initial insurance endorsement and the mortgage is paid in full prior to the date of such first principal payment, the first and second premiums collected shall be adjusted so that the aggregate of the two premiums shall equal the sum of:
(i) One percent of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the year following the date of the initial insurance endorsement and
(ii) One-half of one percent per annum of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the period from the first anniversary of the date of initial endorsement to the date the mortgage was paid in full.
(b) Purchasing cooperatives. The provisions of paragraph (a) of this section do not apply to the mortgage of a purchasing nonprofit cooperative housing corporation or trust where such mortgage is endorsed for insurance pursuant to the sale of an Investor Sponsored Project to such purchasing nonprofit cooperative housing corporation or trust.
(c) Existing Construction. The provisions of paragraph (a) of this section shall apply to a mortgage covering Existing Construction which involves insurance of advances for Commissioner approved or required repairs, improvements, alterations and additions.
(d) Supplementary loan; insurance of advances. The provisions of paragraph (a) shall apply to any supplementary loan involving insurance of advances.
§ 213.255 Premiums where first principal payment one year or less after initial endorsement.
(a) Management and Sales Types and Investor Sponsored Projects. (1) If the date of the first principal payment is one year, or less than one year following the date of such initial insurance endorsement, the mortgagee, upon such first principal payment date, shall pay a second premium equal to one-half of one percent of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the following year which shall be adjusted so as to accord with such date and so that the aggregate of the first and second premiums shall equal the sum of
(i) One percent per annum of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the period from the date of initial insurance endorsement to the date of first principal payment, and
(ii) One-half of one percent of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the year following the date of the first principal payment.
(2) If the date of the first principal payment of a mortgage is one year or less than one year following the date of the initial insurance endorsement and the mortgage is paid in full prior to the date of such first principal payment, the first and only premium collected shall be adjusted so that the total premium shall equal one percent per annum of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the period from the date of initial insurance endorsement to the date the mortgage was paid in full.
(b) Purchasing cooperatives. The provisions of paragraph (a) of this section do not apply to the mortgage of a purchasing nonprofit cooperative housing corporation or trust where such mortgage is endorsed for insurance pursuant to the sale of an Investor Sponsored Project to such purchasing nonprofit cooperative housing corporation or trust.
(c) Existing Construction. The provisions of paragraph (a) of this section shall apply to a mortgage covering Existing Construction which involves insurance of advances for Commissioner approved or required repairs, improvements, alterations and additions.
(d) Supplementary loan; insurance of advances. The provisions of paragraph shall apply to a supplementary loan involving insurance of advances.
§ 213.256 Premiums; insurance upon completion.
(a) Management and Sales Types and Investor Sponsored Projects. (1) Where the mortgage is initially and finally endorsed for insurance pursuant to a Commitment to Insure Upon Completion, the mortgagee on the date of the first principal payment shall pay a second premium equal to one-half of one percent of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the year following such first principal payment date which shall be adjusted so as to accord with such date and so that the aggregate of the first and second premiums shall equal the sum of one-half of one percent per annum of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the period from the date of the insurance endorsement to one year following the date of the first principal payment.
(2) Where the mortgage is initially and finally endorsed for insurance pursuant to a Commitment to Insure Upon Completion and is paid in full prior to the date of the first principal payment, the first and only premium collected shall be adjusted so that the total premium shall equal one-half of one percent per annum of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the period from the date of the insurance endorsement to the date the mortgage was paid in full.
(b) Purchasing cooperatives. The provisions of paragraph (a) of this section do not apply to the mortgage of a purchasing nonprofit cooperative housing corporation or trust where such mortgage is endorsed for insurance pursuant to the sale of an Investor Sponsored Project to such purchasing nonprofit cooperative housing corporation or trust.
(c) Existing Construction. The provisions of paragraph (a) of this section shall apply to Existing Construction not involving insurance of advances but involved Commissioner approved or required repairs, improvements, alterations and additions.
(d) Supplementary loans; Commitment to Insure Upon Completion. The provisions of paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section shall apply to a supplementary loan endorsed for insurance pursuant to a Commitment to Insure Upon Completion.
§ 213.257 Premiums; purchasing cooperatives; Existing Construction; supplementary loans to purchase existing community facility.
(a) Where a mortgage is endorsed for insurance pursuant to the sale of an Investor Sponsor Project or covers Existing Construction not involving Commissioner approved or required repairs, improvements, alterations and additions, the mortgagee, on the date of the insurance endorsement, shall pay a first premium equal to one-half of one percent of the principal obligation of the mortgage for the period from the date of the insurance endorsement to one year following the date of the first principal payment. On the anniversary of the first principal payment, this first premium shall be adjusted to equal one-half of one percent of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the period from the date of the insurance endorsement to one year following the date of the first principal payment.
(b) The premium provisions of paragraph (a) of this section shall apply to a supplementary loan to purchase an existing community facility.
(a) Until the mortgage is paid in full or until receipt by the Commissioner of an application for insurance benefits, or until the contract of insurance is otherwise terminated with the consent of the Commissioner, the mortgagee, on each anniversary of the date of the first principal payment, shall pay an annual mortgage insurance premium equal to one-half of one percent of the average outstanding principal obligation of the mortgage for the year following the date on which such premium becomes payable.
(b) The provisions of paragraph (a) of this section shall apply to operating loss loans and to supplementary loans.
The premiums payable on and after the date of the first principal payment shall be calculated in accordance with the amortization provisions without taking into account delinquent payments or prepayments.
§ 213.259a Premiums – mortgages insured pursuant to section 238(c) of the Act.
All of the provisions of §§ 213.253 through 213.259 governing mortgage insurance premiums shall apply to mortgages insured under this subpart pursuant to section 238(c) of the Act, except that all mortgage insurance premiums due on such mortgages in accordance with §§ 213.253 through 213.259 shall be calculated on the basis of one percent.
Premiums shall be payable in cash or in debentures at par plus accrued interest. All premiums are payable in advance and no refund can be made of any portion thereof except as hereinafter provided in this part.
§ 213.265 Modifications and consolidations.
Where a mortgage covering an investor sponsored project is modified and consolidated with the mortgage of a purchasing nonprofit cooperative housing corporation or trust, it shall be deemed to be paid in full as of the date of such modification and consolidation.
§ 213.266 Initial insurance endorsement.
The Commissioner shall indicate his insurance of the mortgage or supplementary loan by endorsing the original credit instrument and identifying the section of the Act and the regulations under which the mortgage or supplementary loan is insured and the date of insurance.
§ 213.266a Insurance fund obligations.
A mortgage endorsed for insurance under section 213 of the Act shall be the obligation either of the Cooperative Management Housing Insurance Fund or of the General Insurance Fund. The determination of the applicable fund shall be governed by the following:
(a) A mortgage insured under section 213(a)(1) of the Act or under section 213(a)(3) if the project has been acquired by a cooperative corporation or under section 213 (i) or (j) shall be the obligation of the Cooperative Management Housing Insurance Fund, where it has been insured pursuant to a commitment issued on or after August 10, 1965, or insured pursuant to a commitment issued prior to such date, and transferred to the Cooperative Management Housing Insurance Fund.
(b) A mortgage insured under section 213(a)(2) of the Act or under section 213(a)(3) where the project has not been acquired by a cooperative corporation shall be the obligation of the General Insurance Fund. A mortgage insured prior to August 10, 1965, or insured pursuant to a commitment issued prior to such date, where the project has not been transferred to the Cooperative Management Housing Insurance Fund, shall also be the obligation of the General Insurance Fund.
§ 213.267 Effect of insurance endorsement.
From the date of initial endorsement, the Commissioner and the mortgagee or lender shall be bound by the provisions of this subpart to the same extent as if they had executed a contract including the provisions of this subpart and the applicable sections of the Act.
§ 213.268 Final insurance endorsement.
When all advances of mortgage or loan proceeds have been made and all the terms and conditions of the commitment have been complied with to the satisfaction of the Commissioner, he shall indicate on the original credit instrument the total of all advances he has approved for insurance and again endorse such instrument.
§ 213.269 Endorsement of supplementary loans.
The provisions of §§ 213.266, 213.267, and 213.268 shall apply to supplementary loans.
§ 213.270 Supplementary loans; election of action; claims; debentures.
(a) Election of action. Where a real estate mortgage, deed of trust, conditional sales contract, chattel mortgage, lien, judgement, or any other security device has been used to secure the payment of a loan made under the provisions of this section, the lender may not, except with the approval of the Commissioner, both proceed against such security and also make claim under its contract of insurance, but shall elect which method it desires to pursue.
(b) Maximum claim period. Notice of intention to file claim on a form prescribed by the Commissioner shall be filed within 45 days after the lender becomes eligible for the benefits of the loan insurance, or within such later time as may be agreed upon by the Commissioner in writing.
(c) Items to be filed on submitting claim. Within 30 days after the filing of the notice of intention to file claim, or within such further period as may be agreed upon by the Commissioner in writing, the lender shall file with the Commissioner:
(1) The fiscal data pertaining to the loan transaction;
(2) Receipts covering all disbursements as required by the fiscal data form;
(3) The original note and any security instrument or instruments which shall be assigned to the Commissioner without recourse or warranty, except that the lender must warrant that no act or omission of the lender has impaired the validity and priority of such security instrument or instruments, that the security instrument or instruments, are prior to all mechanics’ and materialmen’s liens filed of record subsequent to the recording of such security instrument or instruments regardless of whether such liens attached prior to such recording date, and prior to all liens and encumbrances which may have attached or defects which may have arisen subsequent to the recording of such security instrument or instruments, except such liens or other matters as may be approved by the Commissioner, that the amount stated in the instrument of assignment is actually due and owing under the security instrument or instruments, that there are no offsets or counterclaims thereto, and that the lender has a good right to assign such note and security instrument or instruments;
(4) All hazard insurance policies held on property serving as security for the loan or other evidence of insurance coverage acceptable to the Commissioner, together with a copy of the lender’s notification to the carrier authorizing the amendment of the loss payable clause substituting the Commissioner as the holder of the security instrument;
(5) The assignment to the Commissioner of all rights and interests arising under the note and security instrument or instruments so in default, and all claims of the lender against the borrower or others arising out of the loan transaction;
(6) All policies of title or other insurance or surety bonds, or other guarantees and any and all claims thereunder; including evidence satisfactory to the Commissioner that the original title coverage has been extended to include the assignment of the note and the security instrument or instruments to the Commissioner;
(7) Any balance of the loan not advanced to the borrower;
(8) Any cash or property held by the lender or its agents or to which it is entitled; including deposits made for the account of the borrower and which have not been applied in reduction of the principal obligation under the note and security instrument or instruments;
(9) All records, ledger cards, documents, books, papers and accounts relating to the loan transaction;
(10) Any additional information or data which the Commissioner may require.
(d) Claim computation. Upon an acceptable assignment of the note and security instrument, the Commissioner shall pay the claim of the lender in cash, in debentures or in a combination of both, as determined by the Commissioner at the time of payment. The payment shall be in an amount equal to the unpaid principal balance of the supplementary loan plus:
(1) Any accrued interest due on the supplementary loan as of the date of execution of its assignment to the Commissioner;
(2) Any advance made previously under the provisions of the loan instrument and approved by the Commissioner;
(3) Reimbursement for such reasonable collection costs, court costs, and attorney’s fees as may be approved by the Commissioner;
(4) An amount equivalent to the debenture interest which would have been earned on the portion of the insurance benefits paid in cash, as of the date such cash payment is made, except that when the lender fails to meet any one of the applicable requirements of paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section within the specified time and in a manner satisfactory to the Commissioner (or within such further time as the Commissioner may approve in writing), the interest allowance in such cash payment shall be computed only to the date on which the particular required action should have been taken or to which it was extended.
(e) Debenture interest. The debentures shall bear interest as provided in § 207.259(e)(6) of this chapter.
(f) Maturity of debentures. Debentures shall mature 20 years from the date of issue.
(g) Registration of debentures. Debentures shall be registered as to principal and interest.
(h) Denomination of debentures. Debentures shall be issued in multiples of $50 and any difference not in excess of $50 between the amount of debentures to which the lender is otherwise entitled hereunder and the aggregate face value of the debentures issued shall be paid in cash by the Commissioner to the lender.
(i) Redemption of debentures. Debentures shall, at the option of the Commissioner and with the approval of the Secretary of the Treasury, be redeemable at par plus accrued interest on any semiannual interest payment date on 3 months’ notice of redemption given in such manner as the Commissioner shall prescribe. The debenture interest on the debentures called for redemption shall cease on the semiannual interest payment date designated in the call notice. The Commissioner may include with the notice of redemption an offer to purchase the debentures at par plus accrued interest at any time during the period between the notice of redemption and the redemption date. If the debentures are purchased by the Commissioner after such call and prior to the named redemption date, the debenture interest shall cease on the date of purchase.
(j) Issue date of debentures. The debentures shall be issued as of the date of the execution of the assignment of the supplementary loan in accordance with the requirements of paragraph (c)(3) of this section.
§ 213.275 Nature of the Cooperative Management Housing Insurance Fund.
The Cooperative Management Housing Insurance Fund shall consist of the General Surplus Account and the Participating Reserve Account.
§ 213.276 Allocation of Cooperative Management Housing Insurance Fund income or losses.
For any semiannual period in which Cooperative Management Housing Insurance Fund operations shall result in a net income, or loss, the Commissioner shall allocate such net income or such loss to the General Surplus Account, to the Participating Reserve Account, or to both, as he may determine to be in accordance with sound actuarial and accounting practice. In determining net income or loss, the Commissioner shall take into consideration all income received from fees, premiums, and earnings on investments of the Fund, operating expenses, and provision for losses of the Fund.
§ 213.277 Right and liability under the Cooperative Management Housing Insurance Fund.
No mortgagor or mortgagee shall have any vested right in a credit balance in either the General Surplus Account or the Participating Reserve Account. No mortgagor or mortgagee shall be subject to any liability arising under the mutuality of the Cooperative Management Housing Insurance Fund.
When the contract of insurance is terminated by reason of payment in full of the mortgage or by voluntary termination approved by the Commissioner, and at such time or times prior to such termination as the Commissioner may approve, the Commissioner may distribute to a mortgagor under a mortgage that is the obligation of the Cooperative Management Housing Insurance Fund a share of the Participating Reserve Account in such manner and amount as he shall determine to be equitable and in accordance with sound actuarial and accounting practice.
In no event shall a distributive share of the Participating Reserve Account exceed the aggregate paid scheduled annual premiums of the mortgagor paid to the year of termination of the insurance or to the year of payment of the share, if paid prior to termination.
§ 213.280 Finality of determination.
The determination of the Commissioner as to the amount to be paid to any mortgagor from the Cooperative Management Housing Insurance Fund shall be final and conclusive.
Subpart C – Individual Properties Released From Project Mortgage; Expiring Program
§ 213.501 Savings clause.
No new loans are being insured under the Cooperative Housing Mortgage Insurance Program for individual properties released from a project mortgage. Any existing insured loans on individual properties released from a project mortgage under this program will continue to be governed by the regulations on eligibility requirements, contract rights and obligations, and servicing responsibilities in effect as they existed immediately before December 26, 1996.
PART 214 – HOUSING COUNSELING PROGRAM
Subpart A – General Program Requirements
§ 214.1 Purpose.
This part implements the Housing Counseling Program authorized by section 106 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968 (12 U.S.C. 1701x). Section 106 authorizes HUD to make grants to, or contract with, public or private organizations to provide a broad range of housing counseling services to homeowners and tenants to assist them in improving their housing conditions and in meeting the responsibilities of tenancy or homeownership. Section 106 also directs HUD to provide housing counseling services only through agencies or individuals that have been certified by HUD as competent to provide such services. The regulations contained in this part prescribe the procedures and requirements by which the Housing Counseling Program will be administered, including the process by which agencies are approved and individuals will be certified to provide the homeownership and rental counseling, as defined by section 106. These regulations apply to all agencies participating in HUD’s Housing Counseling Program, and to all organizations or entities that deliver housing counseling, including homeownership counseling or rental housing counseling, required under or provided in connection with HUD programs.
§ 214.3 Definitions.
The following definitions apply throughout this part:
Action plan. A plan that outlines what the housing counseling agency and the client will do in order to meet the client’s housing goals and, when appropriate, addresses the client’s housing problem(s).
Affiliate. A nonprofit organization participating in the HUD-related Housing Counseling program of a regional or national intermediary, or state housing finance agency. The affiliate organization is incorporated separately from the regional or national intermediary or state housing finance agency. An affiliate is:
(1) Duly organized and existing as a tax-exempt nonprofit organization;
(2) In good standing under the laws of the state of the organization; and
(3) Authorized to do business in the states where it proposes to provide housing counseling services.
Branch or branch office. An organizational and subordinate unit of a local housing counseling agency, multi-state organization, regional or national intermediary, or state housing finance agency not separately incorporated or organized, that participates in HUD’s Housing Counseling program. A branch or branch office must be in good standing under the laws of the state where it proposes to provide housing counseling services. A branch or branch office cannot be a subgrantee or affiliate.
Clients. Individuals or households who seek the assistance of an agency participating in HUD’s Housing Counseling program to meet a housing need or resolve a housing problem.
Counseling. Counselor to client assistance that addresses unique financial circumstances or housing issues and focuses on ways of overcoming specific obstacles to achieving a housing goal such as repairing credit, addressing a rental dispute, purchasing a home, locating cash for a down payment, being informed of fair housing and fair lending requirements of the Fair Housing Act, finding units accessible to persons with disabilities, avoiding foreclosure, or resolving a financial crisis. Except for reverse mortgage counseling, all counseling shall involve the creation of an action plan.
Education. Formal classes, with established curriculum and instructional goals provided in a group or classroom setting, covering topics applicable to groups of people such as, but not limited to:
(1) Renter rights;
(2) The homebuying process;
(3) How to maintain a home;
(4) Budgeting;
(5) Fair housing;
(6) Identifying and reporting predatory lending practices;
(7) Rights for persons with disabilities; and
(8) The importance of good credit.
Homeownership counseling. See definition at 24 CFR 5.100.
Housing counseling. See definition at 24 CFR 5.100.
Housing counseling grant funds. Grants awarded to participating agencies under section 106 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968 (12 U.S.C. 1701x).
Housing counseling work plan. A participating agency’s plan to provide housing counseling activities and services in a specified geographic area to resolve or mitigate identified community needs and problems. The plan will also describe the objectives of the agency and the resources available to meet those objectives. An intermediary’s state housing finance agency’s (SHFA) or multistate organization’s (MSO) plan includes similar information regarding the services they propose to provide to the network of affiliated agencies or branches participating in their HUD-related Housing Counseling program.
Housing goal. A realistic, short- or long-term objective set by the client, with advice from a housing counselor.
HUD-approved housing counseling agency. Private and public nonprofit organizations that are exempt from taxation under section 501(a), pursuant to section 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1996, 26 U.S.C. 501(a) and 501(c) and approved by HUD, in accordance with this part and 106(e) of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968 (12 U.S.C. 1701x(e)), to provide housing counseling services to clients directly, or through their affiliates or branches, and which meet the requirements set forth in this part.
HUD certified housing counselor. A housing counselor who has passed the HUD Certification examination, works for a participating agency, and is certified by HUD as competent to provide housing counseling services pursuant to this part.
Intermediary. A HUD-approved organization that provides housing counseling services indirectly through its branches or affiliates, for whom it exercises control over the quality and type of housing counseling services rendered. The Housing Counseling program recognizes two types of intermediaries, which include:
(1) National intermediary. A national intermediary provides, in multiple regions of the United States:
(i) Housing counseling services through its branches or affiliates or both; and
(ii) Administrative and supportive services to its network of affiliates or branches, including, but not limited to, pass-through funding, training, and technical assistance.
(2) Regional intermediary. A regional intermediary provides in a generally recognized region within the United States, such as the Southwest, Mid-Atlantic, New England:
(i) Housing counseling services through its branches or affiliates or both; and
(ii) Administrative and supportive services to its network of affiliates, or branches, including, but not limited to, pass-through funding, training, and technical assistance.
Local housing counseling agency (LHCA). A housing counseling agency that directly provides housing counseling services. An LHCA may have a main office, and one or more branch offices, in no more than two contiguous states.
Multi-state organization (MSO). A multi-state organization provides housing counseling services through a main office and branches in two or more states.
Nonprofit organization. Shall have the meaning given in section 104(5) of the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act (42 U.S.C. 12704(5)), except that subparagraph (D) of such section shall not apply.
Participating agency. Participating agencies are all housing counseling and intermediary organizations participating in HUD’s Housing Counseling program, including HUD-approved agencies, and affiliates and branches of HUD-approved intermediaries, HUD-approved MSOs, and state housing finance agencies.
Rental housing counseling. See definition at 24 CFR 5.100.
Reverse mortgage. A mortgage that pays a homeowner loan proceeds drawn from accumulated home equity and that requires no repayment until a future time.
State. Each of the several States, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, or any other possession of the United States.
State housing finance agency (SHFA). Any public body, agency, or instrumentality created by a specific act of a state legislature empowered to finance activities designed to provide housing and related facilities through land acquisition, construction, or rehabilitation throughout an entire state. SHFAs may provide direct counseling services or subgrant housing counseling funds, or both, to affiliated housing counseling agencies within the SHFA’s state. “State” includes the several states, Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Subgrantee. An affiliate of a HUD-approved intermediary or SHFA that receives a subgrant of housing counseling funds provided under a HUD grant.
Unit of general local government. Any city, county, parish, town, township, borough, village, or any other general purpose political subdivision of a State.
Subpart B – Approval and Disapproval of Housing Counseling Agencies
§ 214.100 General.
An organization may be approved by HUD as a HUD-approved housing counseling agency upon meeting the requirements of § 214.103 and upon completing the application procedures set forth in this subpart B.
(a) Approval. The approval of a housing counseling agency and the certification of a HUD certified housing counselor does not create or imply a warranty or endorsement by HUD of the approved agency, or its employees, including counselors, to a prospective client or to any other organization or individual, nor does it represent a warranty of any housing counseling provided by the agency or a HUD certified housing counselor working for an agency. Approval means only that the agency has met the qualifications and conditions prescribed by HUD, and a HUD certified housing counselor only means the housing counselor has successfully passed an examination pursuant to these regulations and works for a participating agency.
(b) Effective date. Agencies approved by HUD on or before October 29, 2007 and agencies that have submitted applications to HUD on or before September 28, 2007 and that are subsequently approved, are required to be in full compliance with the requirements in this part on October 1, 2007. Agencies approved after October 29, 2007 must comply with this part.
§ 214.103 Approval criteria.
The following criteria for approval apply to all agencies, MSOs, and intermediaries, including all local housing counseling agencies, branches, and affiliates that are included in one application:
(a) Nonprofit and tax-exempt status. A housing counseling agency must function as a private or public nonprofit organization, or be a unit of local, county, or state government. The agency must submit evidence of nonprofit status and tax-exempt status under section 501(a), pursuant to section 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1996 (26 U.S.C. 501(a) and (c)). Units of local, county, or state government must submit proof of their authorization to provide housing counseling services.
(b) Experience. An agency must have successfully administered a Housing Counseling program for at least one year. An intermediary must have operated in an intermediary capacity for at least one year. To be considered part of an LHCA’s, MSO’s, or intermediary’s approval application, and to participate in the HUD-approved portion of the intermediary’s, SHFA’s, or MSO’s Housing Counseling program, affiliates and branches must have successfully administered a Housing Counseling program for at least one year.
(c) Ineligible participants. An agency, including any of the agency’s directors, partners, officers, principals, or employees, must not be:
(1) Suspended, debarred, or otherwise restricted under the Department’s, or any other federal regulations;
(2) Indicted for, or convicted of, a criminal offense that reflects upon the responsibility, integrity, or ability of the agency to participate in housing counseling activities. These offenses include criminal offenses that can be prosecuted at a local, state, or federal level;
(3) Subject to unresolved findings as a result of HUD or other government audit or investigations.
(d) Community base. A housing counseling agency and its HUD Program branches and affiliates must have functioned for at least one year in the geographical area(s) the agency set forth in its housing counseling work plan.
(e) Recordkeeping and reporting. The agency must have an established system of recordkeeping so that client files, electronic and paper, can be reviewed and annual activity data for the agency can be verified, reported, and analyzed. Client files, both electronic and paper, must be kept confidential, in accordance with § 214.315. This system must meet the requirements of 2 CFR part 200, subpart D, 24 CFR 1.6, and 24 CFR part 121 and can be easily accessible to HUD for all monitoring and audit purposes.
(f) Client management system. All participating agencies shall utilize an automated housing counseling client management system for the collection and reporting of client-level information, including, but not limited to, financial and demographic data, counseling services provided, and outcomes data. The system used must provide the counseling agency with the tools necessary to track and manage all counseling and educational activities associated with each client. Agencies must utilize a Client Management System that satisfies HUD’s requirements and interfaces with HUD’s databases.
(g) Housing counseling resources. The agency must have the following resources sufficient to implement the proposed housing counseling work plan no later than the date of HUD approval:
(1) Funding. The application for approval must provide evidence of funds immediately available, or written commitment for funds to cover the cost of operating the housing counseling work plan during the initial 12-month period of HUD approval.
(2) Staff. The agency must employ staff trained in housing counseling. All staff providing housing counseling, including homeownership counseling or rental housing counseling, must be HUD certified housing counselors, and at least half the agency’s counselors must have at least 6 months of experience in the job they will perform in the agency’s housing counseling program.
(3) Language skills. The agency must have housing counselor(s) who are fluent in the language of the clients they serve, or the housing counseling agency must use the services of an interpreter, or the agency must refer the client to another agency that can meet the client’s needs.
(h) Knowledge of HUD programs and local housing market. The agency’s housing counseling staff must possess a working knowledge of HUD’s housing and single-family mortgage insurance programs, other state and local housing programs available in the community, consolidated plans, and the local housing market. The staff should be familiar with housing programs offered by conventional mortgage lenders and other housing or related programs that may assist their clients.
(i) Contracts or agreements to provide eligible housing counseling services. An agency and its branches or subgrantees or affiliates must deliver all of the housing counseling activities set forth in the agency’s housing counseling work plan. It is not permissible to contract out housing counseling services, except:
(1) In geographic areas where a need for housing counseling services is demonstrated and no HUD-approved housing counseling agency or its branches, affiliates, or subgrantees exists. Under this exception, the contract must delineate the respective Housing Counseling program responsibilities of the contracting parties, the agency providing services (contractor) must meet the HUD approval eligibility standards, and the contracting agency must receive prior written approval from HUD.
(2) Intermediaries and SHFAs may enter into agreements with affiliates to provide housing counseling services. The agreements with affiliates may be in the form of an exchange of letters that delineate the respective Housing Counseling program responsibilities of the parties. Agreements must be sufficiently detailed to establish accountability and allow for adequate monitoring in accordance with 2 CFR part 200.
(3) With prior approval from HUD, and at HUD’s discretion, intermediary organizations may operate a Housing Counseling program with a network of affiliated counselors, rather than affiliated counseling agencies, if the structure is designed to meet a special housing counseling need identified by HUD.
(j) Community resources. The housing counseling agency must have established working relationships with private and public community resources to which it can refer clients who need help the agency cannot offer, including agencies offering similar or related services to non-English speaking clients.
(k) State and local requirements. An agency and its branches and affiliates must meet all state and local requirements for its operation.
(l) Facilities. All housing counseling facilities of the agency and its branches, affiliates, and subgrantees must meet the following criteria:
(1) Have a clearly identified office, with space available for the provision of housing counseling services. The office should operate during normal business hours and offer extended hours when necessary;
(2) Provide privacy for in-person counseling and confidentiality of client records;
(3) Provide accessibility features or make alternate accommodations for persons with disabilities, in accordance with section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794), 24 CFR parts 8 and 9, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.).
(m) Housing counseling work plan. (1) The agency must submit a detailed yet concise housing counseling plan that explains: The needs and problems of the target population; how the agency will address one or more of these needs and problems with its available resources; the type of housing counseling services offered; fee structure, if applicable; the geographic service area to be served; and the anticipated results (outcomes) to be achieved within the period of approval.
(2) The plan must be periodically reviewed and, when changed or amended, the agency must notify and provide a copy to HUD.
(3) The plan must meet the basic requirements described in § 214.300.
(4) An agency’s housing counseling work plan must also address, if appropriate, alternative settings and formats for the provision of housing counseling services.
(n) Certification of housing counselors. (1) In order for an agency to participate in HUD’s Housing Counseling Program, all individuals who provide counseling, including homeownership and rental housing counseling, must be HUD certified according to requirements in this section.
(2) For an individual to become a HUD certified counselor, an individual must pass a standardized written examination to demonstrate competency in each of the following areas:
(i) Financial management;
(ii) Property maintenance;
(iii) Responsibilities of homeownership and tenancy;
(iv) Fair housing laws and requirements;
(v) Housing affordability; and
(vi) Avoidance of, and response to, rental or mortgage delinquency and avoidance of eviction or mortgage default.
(3) HUD will certify an individual housing counselor who has met the requirements of paragraph (n)(1) of this section upon verification that the individual works for a participating agency.
(4) Participating agencies and housing counselors must be in compliance with requirements of paragraph (n) of this section as of August 1, 2021.
§ 214.105 Preliminary application process.
(a) Submission. All agencies must complete the forms prescribed by HUD and submit the application and all supporting documentation to HUD. Agencies with branches or affiliates for which the parent entity exercises control over the quality and type of housing counseling services rendered must submit a single application for approval.
(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (a), SHFAs are not required to submit an application for HUD approval. However, to participate in HUD’s Housing Counseling program, SHFAs must either submit a request and provide HUD with a list of affiliates, if applicable, and assure that they meet all program requirements, or submit a request through such other application procedure as HUD may periodically announce in the
§ 214.107 Approval by HUD.
(a) Notice of approval. If an application package meets all requirements outlined in § 214.103, HUD will approve an agency for a period of up to 3 years. HUD will advise the agency of its approval in the form of an approval letter to the agency’s main office.
(b) Certificate of Approval. HUD will issue a “Certificate of Approval” to the approved agency. The certificate will show the period of approval.
(c) Appearance on list of HUD-approved and participating housing counseling agencies. For purposes of client referrals, participating agencies that provide housing counseling services directly to clients must provide HUD with the agency name and contact information, which may appear on HUD’s Web site. In addition, names and addresses of all participating agencies that provide housing counseling services directly may be made available to the public through HUD’s toll-free housing counseling hotline.
§ 214.109 Disapproval by HUD.
If an application package does not meet all requirements in § 214.103, HUD will provide the agency with the reasons for the denial in writing. Within 30 calendar days of the written notice of denial, the agency may submit a revised application, or appeal HUD’s decision in writing to HUD, as provided in § 214.205. If an agency decides to submit a revised application, the agency may consult HUD, to determine the specific actions needed to resolve the deficiencies.
Subpart C – Inactive Status, Termination, and Appeals
§ 214.200 Inactive status.
(a) HUD may change a participating agency’s status to inactive, in lieu of terminations of HUD-approved status or removals from the list of HUD-approved agencies, under certain circumstances that may temporarily impair an agency from complying with its housing counseling plan. An agency’s status may be changed to inactive on a case-by-case basis for a period not to exceed 6 months, unless an extension is provided by HUD under paragraph (d) of this section. HUD may change an agency’s status through either a request submitted to HUD or as a result of information obtained by the Department. Some of the conditions under which inactive status may be considered include, but are not limited to:
(1) Loss of counselor(s);
(2) Damage to facilities by natural disasters that renders the agency unable to function properly;
(3) Loss of funds;
(4) Relocation;
(5) Other circumstances caused by reasons beyond the agency’s control; or
(6) Results of performance review.
(b) Agencies that seek temporary inactive status must submit a request to HUD in writing. Documentation or evidence of the condition(s) that rendered the agency incapable of carrying out its housing counseling plan must be submitted along with the request, if possible. Upon receipt of the request, HUD will review and notify the agency of approval or rejection, in writing. If approved, the agency’s name and contact information will be temporarily removed from the HUD-approved Web list of agencies and the telephone referral system.
(c) The agency must notify HUD in writing and provide supporting documentation or evidence when it is ready to resume operation, or no later than the end of the inactive period. After review and acceptance by HUD, the agency’s contact information may be restored to the Web list of HUD-approved and participating agencies and the telephone referral system.
(d) At HUD’s discretion, if the condition(s) still exists, an extension of the inactive period may be considered or the agency may be terminated or removed from the Housing Counseling program. HUD will notify the agency in writing of its decision.
§ 214.201 Termination of HUD-approved status and grant agreements.
(a) Cause for termination by HUD. HUD may terminate an agency’s approval; remove an SHFA; remove one or more branches or affiliates from the HUD portion of an intermediary’s, MSO’s, or SHFA’s counseling program; and terminate any grant agreements (if applicable) upon confirmation of any of the following reasons:
(1) Noncompliance with program requirements;
(2) Failure to implement in whole or in part the agency’s approved housing counseling work plan or failure to notify HUD of changes in the agency’s housing counseling work plan;
(3) Lack of the capacity to deliver the housing counseling activities described in its approved housing counseling work plan;
(4) Failure to achieve outcomes described in the work plan;
(5) Misuse of grant funds; or
(6) HUD determines that there is good cause.
(b) Agency withdrawal. The participating agency may withdraw from the Housing Counseling program at any time.
(c) Post-termination, post-withdrawal requirements. All terminations by HUD, or an agency’s withdrawal, must be in writing. When a termination or withdrawal occurs, the agency must return to HUD any unexpired “Certificate of Approval.” A terminated or inactive agency cannot continue to display the certificate. If HUD has determined that an agency will be terminated from participating in the Housing Counseling program, and an agency does not voluntarily withdraw, then HUD may follow the provisions found in 24 CFR part 24.
§ 214.203 Re-approval or removal as a result of a performance review.
HUD may conduct a periodic performance review for all agencies participating in the Housing Counseling program. The performance review and the terms of re-approval or removal of a participating agency are described in § 214.307 and § 214.309. At the end of the approval period, and upon completion of a successful performance review, if conducted, HUD will reapprove agencies.
§ 214.205 Appeals.
An agency making an application for approval, or an approved agency seeking reapproval, shall have the right to appeal any adverse decisions rendered by HUD under this part:
(a) Appeal must be in writing. An agency may make a formal written appeal to HUD.
(b) Timeliness. HUD must receive an appeal within 30 days of the date of the HUD decision letter to the applicant agency. HUD is not bound to review appeals received after this 30-calendar day period.
(c) Other action. Nothing in this section prohibits HUD from taking such other action against an agency as provided in 24 CFR part 24, or from seeking any other remedy against an agency available to HUD by statute or otherwise.
Subpart D – Program Administration
§ 214.300 Counseling services.
(a) Basic requirements. (1) Agencies must provide counseling to current and potential homeowners and tenants to assist them in improving their housing conditions and in meeting the responsibilities of homeownership or tenancy.
(2) Except for reverse mortgage counseling, housing counselors and clients must establish an action plan for each counseling client.
(3) Counseling may take place in the office of the housing counseling agency, at an alternate location, or by telephone, as long as mutually acceptable to the housing counselor and client. All agencies participating in HUD’s Housing Counseling program that provide services directly to clients must provide in-person counseling to clients that prefer this format.
(4) Regardless of setting or format, counseling activities must be limited to the geographic area specified in the agency’s approved housing counseling work plan.
(5) With prior approval from HUD, a network of affiliated counselors or a HUD roster of counselors, designed to meet a special housing counseling need, may be permitted to provide specified types of counseling nationally.
(6) All participating agencies that offer group educational sessions must also offer individual counseling on the same topics covered in the group educational sessions.
(7) All participating agencies that provide homeownership counseling, shall address the entire process of homeownership, including, but not limited to, the decision to purchase a home, the selection and purchase of a home, the home inspection process, issues arising during or affecting the period of ownership of a home (including, but not limited to, financing, refinancing, default, and foreclosure, and other financial decisions), and the sale or other disposition of a home.
(8) All participating agencies that provide rental housing counseling shall address issues related to the rental of residential property, which may include counseling regarding future homeownership opportunities, the decision to rent, responsibilities of tenancy, affordability of renting, and eviction prevention.
(9) As part of the homeownership counseling process, participating agencies shall provide clients with such materials as HUD may require regarding the availability and importance of obtaining an independent home inspection.
(b) Counseling services. For each client, all agencies participating in HUD’s Housing Counseling program shall offer the following basic services:
(1) Housing counseling, on at least one of the topics described in paragraph (d) of this section, that enables a client to make informed and reasonable decisions to achieve his or her housing goal.
(2) Referrals to local, state, and federal resources.
(c) Follow-up. Make a reasonable effort to have follow-up communication with the client, when possible, to assure that the client is progressing toward his or her housing goal, to modify or terminate housing counseling, and to learn and report outcomes.
(d) Agency’s housing counseling work plan. (1) A participating agency shall deliver housing counseling services consistent with the agency’s housing counseling work plan. The work plan should identify housing counseling services to be provided in response to one or more of the needs in targeted communities and geographic areas where the agency and its branches and affiliates provide their housing counseling services.
(2) Participating agencies may also conduct marketing and outreach, including, but not limited to, providing general information about housing opportunities, conducting information campaigns, and raising awareness about critical housing topics such as predatory lending and fair housing topics.
(e) Approved housing counseling, education, and outreach topics. The following are examples of approved housing counseling, education, and outreach topics that participating agencies may provide to and discuss with clients:
(1) Prepurchase/homebuying, including, but not limited to: Advice regarding readiness and preparation, Federal Housing Administration-insured financing, housing selection and mobility, search assistance, fair housing and predatory lending, budgeting and credit, loan product comparison, purchase procedures, and closing costs;
(2) Resolving or preventing mortgage delinquency, including, but not limited to: Default and foreclosure, loss mitigation, budgeting, and credit;
(3) Home maintenance and financial management for homeowners, including, but not limited to: Escrow funds, budgeting, refinancing, home equity, home improvement, utility costs, energy efficiency, rights and responsibilities of home owners, and reverse mortgages;
(4) Rental topics, including, but not limited to: HUD rental and rent subsidy programs; other federal, state or local assistance; fair housing; housing search assistance; landlord tenant laws; lease terms; rent delinquency; and
(5) Homeless assistance, including, but not limited to: Information regarding emergency shelter, other emergency services, and transitional housing.
§ 214.303 Performance criteria.
To maintain HUD-approved status, a participating agency must meet the following requirements:
(a) Approval status. Agencies must continue to comply with approval requirements in § 214.103.
(b) Workload. During each 12-month period, the participating agency must provide housing counseling to at least 30 clients. Agencies that offer only housing counseling services limited to reverse mortgages, including home equity conversion mortgages (HECMs), are exempt from this requirement.
(c) Reporting. The agency must submit to HUD complete, accurate, and timely activity reports, as described in § 214.317.
(d) Agency’s housing counseling work plan. The agency must implement the housing counseling work plan and demonstrate reasonable achievement of the outcome objectives approved by HUD, as described in § 214.103(k).
(e) Client referrals from HUD and other participating agencies. Except as described in this paragraph, all clients who contact the agency as a result of these referrals must be served. In cases where the agency does not offer the unique services requested by the client or does not have sufficient resources, the agency must refer the client to another participating agency, preferably in the area, or, failing the availability of a participating agency, must make a reasonable effort to refer the client to another agency, that can help the client meet his or her needs.
(f) Conflicts of interest. (1) A director, employee, officer, contractor, or agent of a participating agency shall not engage in activities that create a real or apparent conflict of interest. Such a conflict would arise if the director, employee, officer, contractor, agent, his or her spouse, child, general partner, or organization in which he or she serves as employee (other than with the participating counseling agency), or with whom he or she is negotiating future employment, has a direct interest in the client as a landlord, broker, or creditor, or originates, has a financial interest in, services, or underwrites a mortgage on the client’s property, owns or purchases a property that the client seeks to rent or purchase, or serves as a collection agent for the client’s mortgage lender, landlord, or creditor.
(2) A director, employee, officer, contractor, or agent of a participating agency shall not refer clients to mortgage lenders, brokers, builders, or real estate sales agents or brokers in which the officer, employee, director, his or her spouse, child, or general partner has a financial interest, neither may they acquire the client’s property from the trustee in bankruptcy or accept a fee or any other consideration for referring a client to mortgage lenders, brokers, builders, or real estate sales agents or brokers.
(3) A director, employee, officer, contractor, or agent of a participating agency or any member of his or her immediate family shall avoid any action that might result in, or create the appearance of, administering the housing counseling operation for personal or private gain; providing preferential treatment to any organization or person; or undertaking any action that might compromise the agency’s ability to ensure compliance with the requirements of this part and to serve the best interests of its clients.
(4) HUD may investigate agency practices and may take action to inactivate or terminate the agency’s approval or participation in the Housing Counseling program.
(5) Participating agencies must notify HUD of conflicts of interest not later than 15 calendar days after the conflict occurred and report to HUD on the corrective action taken to cure the immediate, and avoid future, conflicts.
(g) Disclosure requirements. A participating agency must provide to all clients a disclosure statement that explicitly describes the various types of services provided by the agency and any financial relationships between this agency and any other industry partners. The disclosure must clearly state that the client is not obligated to receive any other services offered by the organization or its exclusive partners. Furthermore, the agency must provide information on alternative services, programs, and products.
(h) Staff and supervision. The agency must employ staff trained in housing counseling, and at least half the counselors must have at least 6 months of experience in the job they will perform in the agency’s Housing Counseling program. Supervisors of the housing counselors must periodically monitor the work of the housing counselors by reviewing client files with the housing counselor to determine the adequacy and effectiveness of the housing counseling. The agency must document these monitoring activities and make the documentation available to HUD upon request.
(i) Funding. The agency must maintain a level of funds that enables it to provide housing counseling to at least the required workload of clients every year, whether or not the agency receives HUD funding.
§ 214.305 Agency profile changes.
Participating agencies must notify HUD within 15 days when any of the following occurs:
(a) The agency loses or changes its tax-exempt, nonprofit status.
(b) The agency no longer complies with local and state requirements.
(c) Changes occur in any of the items below:
(1) Address(es) of the agency’s main office and the address(es) of its branches and affiliates;
(2) Staff personnel responsible for the Housing Counseling program, such as the housing counselors and management staff;
(3) Telephone numbers of the main office, affiliates, and branches; or
(4) Any other aspect of the agency’s purpose or functions that may impair its ability to comply with these regulations or the applicable grant agreement (e.g., lack of qualified housing counselors).
§ 214.307 Performance review.
(a) HUD may conduct periodic on-site or desk performance reviews of all participating agencies.
(b) The performance review will consist of a review of the participating agency’s compliance with all program requirements, including applicable civil rights requirements, and the agency’s level of success in delivering counseling services.
§ 214.309 Reapproval and disapproval based on performance review.
Based on the performance review, HUD may determine whether to renew the approval unconditionally or conditionally, temporarily change status to inactive, or terminate approval or participation of the agency.
(a) Unconditional Reapproval. If the agency is in full compliance with the performance criteria of this part, HUD may reapprove the agency unconditionally for up to 3 years.
(b) Conditional Reapproval. If the agency fails to meet the performance criteria, but the failure does not seriously impair the agency’s counseling capability as required in this part, HUD may extend the agency’s approval or participation for up to 120 calendar days.
(c) Inactive status. HUD may temporarily change an agency’s status to inactive, as provided in § 214.200.
(d) Follow-up Review. HUD may conduct a follow-up review to determine if the deficiencies have been corrected.
(e) Termination of HUD Approval. When HUD determines that the agency’s program deficiencies seriously impair the agency’s ability to comply with this part, HUD may terminate approval or participation of the agency immediately.
(f) Appeal. If HUD does not reinstate the approval, or terminates participation, the agency may file an appeal, as prescribed under § 214.205.
§ 214.311 Housing counseling grant funds.
(a) HUD housing counseling grant funds. HUD approval or program participation does not guarantee housing counseling grant funding. Funding for the Housing Counseling Program depends on appropriations from Congress, and are awarded competitively under Federal and HUD regulations and policies governing assistance programs, including the Department of Housing and Urban Development Reform Act of 1989 (42 U.S.C. 3545 et seq.). If housing counseling grant funds become available that are to be competitively awarded, HUD will notify the public through a Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) in the
(b) Local funding sources. HUD recommends that approved agencies seek and secure funding from funding sources that may include local and state governments, private foundations, and lending or real estate organizations. Agencies must assure that such arrangements do not violate the provisions regarding conflicts of interest described in § 214.303(e).
(c) Limitation on distribution of funds. No housing counseling funds made available under the Housing Counseling Program shall be distributed to:
(1)(i) Any organization that has been convicted for a violation under Federal law relating to an election for Federal office or any organization that employs applicable individuals. For the purposes of this section, applicable individual means an individual who is:
(A) Employed by the organization in a permanent or temporary capacity;
(B) Contracted or retained by the organization; or
(C) Acting on behalf of, or with the express or apparent authority of, the organization; and
(D) Has been convicted for a violation under Federal law relating to an election for Federal office.
(ii) For the purposes of this paragraph (c)(1), a violation under Federal law relating to an election for Federal office includes, but is not limited to, a violation of one or more of the following statutory provisions related to Federal election fraud, voter intimidation, and voter suppression: 18 U.S.C. 241-242, 245(b)(1)(A), 592-611, and 42 U.S.C. 1973.
(2) A participating agency that provides housing counseling through housing counselors who are not HUD certified housing counselors in accordance with § 214.103(n).
(d) Misuse of housing counseling grant funds. If any participating agency that receives housing counseling grant funds under the Housing Counseling Program is determined by HUD to have used those housing counseling grant funds in a manner that constitutes a material violation of applicable statutes and regulations, or any requirements or conditions under which such funds were provided:
(1) HUD shall require that, within 12 months after the date of the determination of such misuse, the agency shall reimburse HUD for such misused amounts and return to HUD any such amounts that remain unused or unobligated for use; and
(2) Such agency shall be ineligible, at any time after the date of such determination of material misuse, to apply for or receive further funds under the Housing Counseling Program.
(3) The remedies under paragraph (d) of this section are in addition to any other remedies that may be available under law.
§ 214.313 Housing counseling fees.
(a) Participating agencies may charge reasonable and customary fees for housing education and counseling services, as long as the cost does not create a financial hardship for the client. An agency’s fee schedule must be posted in a prominent place that is easily viewed by clients, and be available to HUD for review.
(b) Agencies must inform clients of the fee structure in advance of providing services. Clients cannot be charged for client intake.
(c) If any agency chooses to charge fees, the agency must conform to the following guidelines:
(1) Provide counseling without charge to persons who cannot afford the fees;
(2) Fees must be commensurate with the level of services provided;
(3) Agencies may not impose fees upon clients for the same portion of or for an entire service that is already funded with HUD grant funds.
(d) The agency may also be reimbursed from clients for the direct cost of obtaining copies of clients’ credit reports from credit reporting bureaus if this does not cause a hardship for the client. In cases where the participating agency receives a discount for the cost of credit reports, this discount must be passed on to the client.
(e) Lenders may pay agencies for counseling services, through a lump sum or on a case-by-case basis, provided the level of payment does not exceed a level that is commensurate with the services provided, and is reasonable and customary for the area, and does not violate requirements under the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (12 U.S.C. 2601 et seq.). These transactions and relationships must be disclosed to the client as required in § 214.303(g).
§ 214.315 Recordkeeping.
(a) Recordkeeping system. Each participating housing counseling agency must maintain a recordkeeping system. The system must permit HUD to easily access all information needed for a performance review. This system must meet the requirements of 2 CFR part 200, subpart D, 24 CFR 1.6, and 24 CFR part 121.
(b) File retention requirements. Financial records, supporting documents, statistical records and all other pertinent records, both electronic and on paper, shall be retained for a period of 3 years from the date the case file was terminated for housing counseling. If the housing counseling agency is a recipient of a HUD housing counseling grant, then the client files for the housing counseling grant year must be retained for 3 years from the date the final grant invoice was paid by HUD.
(c) Grant activities. Recipients of HUD housing counseling grants are required to report activities under the grant in a format acceptable to HUD and within the designated time frames required by the applicable grant agreement.
(d) Race, ethnicity, and income data. Participating agencies must maintain current and accurate data on the race, ethnicity, and income of their counseling clients and education participants.
(e) Client file. The housing counseling agency must maintain a separate confidential file for each counseling client to document the action plan and the services provided to the client, as described in § 214.300. For all counseling, except for HECM counseling, the client file must include an action plan. The client file may be for an individual or household or for a group of clients with the same housing need.
(f) Group education file. The housing counseling agency must maintain a separate confidential file for each course provided. This file must contain a list of all participants, their race, ethnicity and income data, course title, course outline, instructors, and date of each course.
(g) Confidentiality. Participating agencies must ensure the confidentiality of each client’s personal and financial information, including credit reports, whether the information is received from the client or from another source. Failure to maintain the confidentiality of, or improper use of, credit reports may subject the agency to penalties under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (14 U.S.C. 1681 et seq.).
(h) Termination of services. The housing counseling agency must document in the client’s file termination of housing counseling. Termination occurs or may occur under any of these conditions:
(1) The client meets his or her housing need or resolves the housing problem;
(2) The agency determines that further housing counseling will not meet the client’s housing need or resolve the client’s housing problem;
(3) The agency attempts to, but is unable to, locate the client;
(4) The client does not follow the agreed-upon action plan;
(5) The client otherwise terminates housing counseling; or
(6) The client fails to appear for housing counseling appointments.
§ 214.317 Reporting.
All participating agencies shall submit to HUD activity reports, which may be required up to quarterly. The reports must be submitted in the format, by the deadline, and in the manner prescribed by HUD. Participating agencies that are also recipients of HUD grants or subgrants may be required to submit additional reports, as described in their grant agreements and prescribed by HUD.
Subpart E – Other Federal Requirements
§ 214.500 Audit.
Housing counseling grant recipients and subrecipients shall be subject to the audit requirements contained in 2 CFR part 200, subpart F. HUD must be provided a copy of the audit report within 30 days of completion.
§ 214.503 Other requirements.
In addition to the requirements of this part, the Housing Counseling program is subject to applicable federal requirements in 24 CFR 5.105.
PART 219 – FLEXIBLE SUBSIDY PROGRAM FOR TROUBLED PROJECTS
§ 219.1 Program operations.
Effective May 1, 1996, the Flexible Subsidy Program for Troubled Projects will be governed and operate under the statutory provisions codified at 12 U.S.C. 1715z-1a, under the administrative policies and procedures contained in any applicable HUD Handbooks, and other administrative bulletins and notices as the Department may issue from time to time.
§ 219.2 Savings provision.
Part 219, as it existed immediately before May 1, 1996, (contained in the April 1, 1995 edition of 24 CFR, parts 200 to 219) will continue to govern the rights and obligations of housing owners, tenants, and the Department of Housing and Urban Development with respect to units and projects assisted under the Flexible Subsidy Program for Troubled Projects prior to May 1, 1996. A list of any amendments to this part published after the CFR revision date is available from the Office of the Rules Docket Clerk, Department of Housing and Urban Development, 451 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC 20410.
PART 220 – MORTGAGE INSURANCE AND INSURED IMPROVEMENT LOANS FOR URBAN RENEWAL AND CONCENTRATED DEVELOPMENT AREAS
Subpart A [Reserved]
Subpart B – Contract Rights and Obligations – Homes
§ 220.251 Cross-reference.
(a) All of the provisions of subpart B, part 203 of this chapter covering mortgages insured under section 203 of the National Housing Act apply to mortgages covering 1- to 11-family dwellings insured under section 220 of the National Housing Act, except the following:
(b) For the purposes of this subpart, all references in part 203 of this chapter to section 203 of the act shall be construed to refer to section 220 of the act, and all references to the Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund shall be construed to refer to the General Insurance Fund.
§ 220.252 Forbearance of foreclosure and assignment of mortgage.
All of the provisions of §§ 203.340 through 203.342, 203.350, 203.352 and 203.353 of this chapter shall apply to mortgages insured under this subpart, except that the provisions relating to forbearance of foreclosure, recasting of the mortgage and assignment of a defaulted mortgage, shall be applicable only to a mortgage covering a property having not more than four dwelling units.
§ 220.253 Substitute mortgagors.
(a) Selling mortgagor. The mortgagee may effect the release of a mortgagor from personal liability on the mortgage note only if it obtains the Commissioner’s approval of a substitute mortgagor, as provided by this section.
(b) Purchasing mortgagor. (1) The Commissioner may approve a substitute mortgagor with respect to any mortgage insured under subpart A of this part, if the substitute mortgagor is to occupy the dwelling as a principal residence or a secondary residence (as these terms are defined in § 220.30(d)).
(2) The Commissioner may approve as a substitute mortgagor an eligible non-occupant mortgagor (as defined in § 220.30(d)) with respect to any mortgage insured under this part, only if the outstanding balance of the mortgage does not exceed the Commissioner’s estimate of:
(i) The replacement cost of the property as of the date the mortgage was originally accepted for insurance, or the date the substitute mortgagor is approved by the Commissioner, which ever is greater, in the case of a dwelling described in § 220.30(a) (1) or (2); or
(ii) The cost of repair or rehabilitation, plus the Commissioner’s estimate of the replacement cost of the property as of either the date the mortgage was originally accepted for insurance, or the date the substitute mortgagor is approved by the Commissioner, whichever is greater, in the case of a dwelling described in § 220.30(a) (3) or (4).
(c) Applicability – current mortgagor. Paragraph (b) of this section applies to the Commissioner’s approval of a substitute mortgagor, only if the mortgage executed by the original mortgagor met the conditions of § 203.258(c) of this chapter.
(d) Applicability – earlier mortgagor. The occupancy and similar requirements set forth in § 203.258(d) of this chapter apply to mortgages insured under subpart A of this part.
(e) Mortgagees approved for participation in the Direct Endorsement program under § 203.3 may, subject to limitations established by the Commissioner, themselves approve an appropriate substitute mortgagor under this section for mortgages which they own or service, and need not obtain further specific approval from the Commissioner.
(f) Definition. As used in this section, the term substitute mortgagor includes: (1) Persons who, upon the release by a mortgagee of a previous mortgagor from personal liability on the mortgage note, assume this liability and agree to pay the mortgage debts; and (2) persons who purchase without assuming liability on the mortgage note, or purchase where no release is given by the mortgagee to the previous mortgagor.
§ 220.275 Method of paying insurance benefits.
If the application for insurance benefits is acceptable to the Commissioner, all of the insurance claim shall be paid in cash unless the mortgagee files a written request with the application for payment in debentures. If such a request is made, all of the claim shall be paid by issuing debentures and by making a cash payment adjusting any differences between the total amount of the claim and the amount of the debentures issued.
Insured Home Improvement Loans
§ 220.350 Cross-reference.
(a) All of the provisions of §§ 203.440 through 203.495 of this chapter covering insured home improvement loans under section 203(k) of the Act shall apply to home improvement loans on one-to-four family dwellings under section 220(h) of the Act, except as set out in paragraph (b).
(b) The provisions of §§ 203.473(a) shall not be applicable to home improvement loans on one-to-four family dwellings under section 220(h) of the Act.
Subpart C – Eligibility Requirements – Projects
§ 220.501 Eligibility requirements.
The requirements set forth in 24 CFR part 200, subpart A, apply to multifamily project mortgages insured under section 220 of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1715k), as amended.
Subpart D – Contract Rights and Obligations – Projects
Project Mortgage Insurance
§ 220.751 Cross-reference.
(a) All of the provisions of subpart B, part 207, of this chapter, covering mortgages insured under section 207 of the National Housing Act, apply with full force and effect to multifamily project mortgages insured under section 220 of the National Housing Act, except § 207.256b Modification of mortgage terms.
(b) For the purposes of the portion of this subpart, covering multifamily project mortgages, all references in part 207 of this chapter to section 207 of the National Housing Act shall be deemed to refer to section 220 of the National Housing Act.
§ 220.753 Forbearance relief.
(a) In a case where the mortgage is in default, the mortgagor and the mortgagee may enter into a forbearance agreement for the reduction or suspension of regular mortgage payments for a specified period of time, if the following requirements are met:
(1) The mortgage was endorsed for insurance on or after July 7, 1961.
(2) The Commissioner determines that the default was due to circumstances beyond the mortgagor’s control and that the mortgage probably will be restored to good standing within a reasonable period of time and evidences such determination by written approval of the forbearance agreement.
(b) The time specified in § 207.258(a) of this chapter, within which a mortgagee shall give the Commissioner written notice of its intention to file an insurance claim, shall be suspended for the period of time specified in the forbearance agreement as long as the mortgagor complies with the requirements of such agreement.
(c) If the mortgagor fails to meet the requirements of a forbearance agreement or to cure the default under the mortgage at the expiration of the forbearance period, and such failure continues for a period of 30 days, the mortgagee shall notify the Commissioner of such failure. Within 45 days thereafter, unless a modification or extension of the forbearance agreement has been approved by the Commissioner, the mortgagee shall notify the Commissioner of its election to file an insurance claim and of its decision to either assign the mortgage to the Commissioner or acquire and convey title to the property to the Commissioner. If the mortgage is assigned to the Commissioner, the special insurance benefits prescribed in § 220.765 shall be applicable.
§ 220.765 Special insurance benefits – forbearance relief cases.
(a) Upon a failure of the mortgagor to meet the requirements of a forbearance agreement or to cure the default under the mortgage at the expiration of the forbearance period, the mortgagee shall be entitled to obtain a special insurance payment in cash, in lieu of the insurance benefits otherwise provided under this subpart. To receive the special insurance payment, the mortgagee shall assign the mortgage to the Commissioner in compliance with the requirements of § 207.258(b) of this chapter.
(b) The special insurance benefits to the mortgagee shall be a cash payment computed in accordance with § 207.259(b) of this chapter, except that in lieu of the allowance for debenture interest in § 207.259(b)(1)(iii) of this chapter, the payment shall include the amount of the unpaid accrued mortgage interest computed to the date the assignment of the mortgage to the Commissioner is filed for record. In addition, there shall be included in the cash payment an amount equivalent to the debenture interest which would have been earned from the date the mortgage assignment was filed for record to the date the payment is made; except that when the mortgagee fails to meet any of the applicable requirements of § 207.258(b) of this chapter and § 220.753(c) within the specified times and in a manner satisfactory to the Commissioner (or within such further time as the Commissioner may approve in writing), such debenture interest allowance shall be computed only to the date on which the particular required action should have been taken.
Insured Project Improvement Loans
§ 220.800 Definitions.
All of the definitions contained in § 220.550 shall apply to §§ 220.800 et seq. In addition the following terms shall have the meaning indicated:
(a) Contract of insurance means the agreement evidenced by the endorsement of the Commissioner upon the note given in connection with an insured loan, incorporating by reference the regulations in §§ 220.800 et seq. and the applicable provisions of the Act.
(b) Maturity means the date on which the loan indebtedness would be extinguished if paid in accordance with periodic payments provided for in the loan.
§ 220.801 Initial insurance endorsement.
The Commissioner shall indicate his insurance of the loan by endorsing the original credit instrument and identifying the section of the Act and the regulations under which the loan is insured and the date of insurance.
§ 220.802 Final insurance endorsement.
When all advances of loan proceeds have been made, and all the terms and conditions of the commitment have been complied with to the satisfaction of the Commissioner, he shall indicate on the original credit instrument the total of advances he has approved for insurance and again endorse such instrument.
§ 220.803 Effect of insurance endorsement.
From the date of initial endorsement, the Commissioner and the lender shall be bound by the provisions of this subpart to the same extent as if they had executed a contract including the provisions of this subpart and the applicable sections of the Act.
(a) First premium. The lender, upon the initial endorsement of the loan for insurance, shall pay to the Commissioner a first loan insurance premium equal to one-half of one percent of the original face amount of the note.
(b) Second premium; first payment more than one year following initial endorsement. If the date of the first principal payment is more than one year following the date of initial insurance endorsement, the lender, upon the anniversary of such insurance date, shall pay a second premium equal to one-half of one percent of the original face amount of the loan.
(c) Third premium. On the date of the first principal payment, the lender shall pay a third premium equal to one-half of one percent of the average outstanding principal obligation of the note for the following year which shall be adjusted so as to accord with such date and so that the aggregate of the three premiums shall equal the sum of (1) one percent of the average outstanding principal obligation of the note for the year following the date of initial insurance endorsement and (2) one-half of one percent per annum of the average outstanding principal obligation of the note for the period from the first anniversary of the date of initial insurance endorsement to one year following the date of the first principal payment.
(d) Second premium; first payment one year or less following initial endorsement. If the date of the first principal payment is one year, or less than one year following the date of initial insurance endorsement, the lender upon such first principal payment date, shall pay a second premium equal to one-half of one percent of the average outstanding principal obligation of the note for the following year which shall be adjusted so as to accord with such date and so that the aggregate of the said two premiums shall equal the sum of (1) one percent per annum of the average outstanding principal obligation of the note for the period from the date of initial insurance endorsement to the date of first principal payment and (2) one-half of one percent of the average outstanding principal obligation of the note for the year following the date of the first principal payment.
(e) Second premium; commitment to insure upon completion. Where the note is initially and finally endorsed for insurance pursuant to a Commitment to Insure Upon Completion, the lender on the date of the first principal payment shall pay a second premium equal to one-half of one percent of the average outstanding principal obligation of the note for the year following such first principal payment date which shall be adjusted so as to accord with such date and so that the aggregate of the said two premiums shall equal the sum of one-half of one percent per annum of the average outstanding principal obligation of the note for the period from the date of the insurance endorsement to one year following the date of the first principal payment.
(f) Annual insurance premium. Until the note is paid in full, or until the loan is assigned to the Commissioner, or until the contract of insurance is otherwise terminated with the consent of the Commissioner, the lender, on each anniversary of the date of the first principal payment shall pay an annual loan insurance premium equal to one-half of one percent of the average outstanding principal obligation of the loan for the year following the date on which such premium becomes payable.
(g) Method of premium payment. Premiums shall be payable in cash or in debentures at par plus accrued interest. All premiums are payable in advance and no refund can be made of any portion thereof except as hereinafter provided in §§ 220.800 et seq.
(h) Calculation of premiums. The premiums payable on and after the date of the first principal payment shall be calculated in accordance with the amortization provisions without taking into account delinquent payments or prepayments.
§ 220.804a Mortgagee’s late charge.
Mortgage insurance premiums which are paid to the Commissioner more than 15 days after the billing date or due date, whichever is later, shall include a late charge of 4 percent of the amount of the payment due, except that no late charge shall be required with respect to any case for which HUD fails to render a proper billing to the mortgagee.
§ 220.805 Termination of insurance.
(a) Prepayment in full. The contract of insurance shall be terminated if the loan is paid in full prior to its maturity. Notice of the prepayment shall be given to the Commissioner, on a form prescribed by the Commissioner, within 30 days from the date of the prepayment. The insurance termination shall become effective as of the date of the prepayment.
(b) Voluntary termination. The contract of insurance shall be voluntarily terminated upon receipt by the Commissioner of a written request, on a form prescribed by the Commissioner, by the borrower and the lender for such termination, accompanied by a submission of the original credit instrument for cancellation of the insurance endorsement and the remittance of all sums to which the Commissioner is entitled. The termination shall become effective as of the date these requirements are met.
Upon termination of loan insurance contract by a payment in full or by a voluntary termination, the Commissioner shall refund to the lender for the account of the borrower an amount equal to the pro rata portion of the current annual loan insurance premium theretofore paid which is applicable to the portion of the year subsequent to the date of the prepayment or the effective date of the voluntary termination of the contract of insurance.
§ 220.810 Definition of default.
(a) If the borrower fails to make any payments due under or provided to be paid by the terms of the note or security instrument and such default continues for a period of 30 days, the note or security instrument shall be considered in default for the purposes of §§ 220.800 et seq.
(b) The failure to perform any other covenant under the note or security instrument shall be considered a default, provided the lender because of such default, has exercised its right under the note or security instrument and accelerated the debt.
(c) If such defaults as defined in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section continue for a period of 30 days, the lender shall be entitled to receive the benefits of insurance hereinafter provided.
§ 220.811 Date of default.
For the purposes of §§ 220.800 et seq., the date of default shall be considered as:
(a) The date of the first uncorrected failure to perform a covenant or obligation under the note or security instrument; or
(b) The date of the first failure to make a monthly payment which subsequent payments by the borrower are insufficient to cover when applied to the overdue monthly payments in the order in which they became due.
§ 220.812 Notice of default.
(a) If the default as defined in § 220.810 is not cured within the 30 day grace period, the lender shall, within 30 days thereafter, notify the Commissioner in writing of such default.
(b) The lender shall give notice in writing to the Commissioner of the failure of the borrower to comply with any covenant or obligation under the security instrument or note regardless of the fact the lender may not have elected to accelerate the debt.
§ 220.813 Commissioner’s right to require acceleration.
Upon receipt of notice of the failure of the borrower to comply with any covenant or obligation under the security instrument or note, or otherwise being apprised thereof, the Commissioner reserves the right to require the lender to accelerate payment of the outstanding principal balance due in order to protect the interests of the Federal Housing Commissioner.
§ 220.814 Election of action.
Where a real estate mortgage, deed of trust, conditional sales contract, chattel mortgage, lien, judgment, or any other security device has been used to secure the payment of a loan made under the provisions of this section, the lender may not, except with the approval of the Commissioner, both proceed against such security and also make claim under its contract of insurance, but shall elect which method it desires to pursue.
§ 220.820 Maximum claim period.
Notice of intention to file claim on a form prescribed by the Commissioner shall be filed within 45 days after the lender becomes eligible for the benefits of the loan insurance, or within such later time as may be agreed upon by the Commissioner in writing.
§ 220.821 Items to be filed on submitting claim.
Within 30 days after the filing of the notice of intention to file claim, or within such further period as may be agreed upon by the Commissioner in writing, the lender shall file with the Commissioner:
(a) The fiscal data pertaining to the loan transaction;
(b) Receipts covering all disbursements as required by the fiscal data form;
(c) The original note and any security instrument or instruments which shall be assigned to the Commissioner without recourse or warranty, except that the lender must warrant that no act or omission of the lender has impaired the validity and priority of such security instrument or instruments, that the security instrument or instruments are prior to all mechanics’ and materialmen’s liens filed of record subsequent to the recording of such security instrument or instruments regardless of whether such liens attached prior to such recording date, and prior to all liens and encumbrances which may have attached or defects which may have arisen subsequent to the recording of such security instrument or instruments, except such liens or other matters as may be approved by the Commissioner, that the amount stated in the instrument of assignment is actually due and owing under the security instrument or instruments, that there are no offsets or counter claims thereto, and that the lender has a good right to assign such note and security instrument or instruments;
(d) All hazard insurance policies held on property serving as security for the loan, together with a copy of the lender’s notification to the carrier authorizing the amendment of the loss payable clause substituting the Commissioner as the holder of the security instrument;
(e) The assignment to the Commissioner of all rights and interests arising under the note and security instrument or instruments so in default, and all claims of the lender against the borrower or others arising out of the loan transaction;
(f) All policies of title or other insurance or surety bonds, or other guarantees and any and all claims thereunder; including evidence satisfactory to the Commissioner that the original title coverage has been extended to include the assignment of the note and security instrument or instruments to the Commissioner.
(g) Any property held by the lender or its agents or to which it is entitled and, if payment is requested in debentures, any cash held by the lender or its agents or to which it is entitled, including deposits made for the account of the borrower, and which have not been applied in reduction of the principal of the mortgage indebtedness;
(h) All records, ledger cards, documents, books, papers and accounts relating to the loan transaction;
(i) Any additional information or data which the Commissioner may require.
§ 220.822 Claim computation; items included.
(a) Assignment of loan. Upon an acceptable assignment of the note and security instrument, the Commissioner shall pay the claim of the lender in an amount equal to the unpaid principal balance of the loan plus:
(1) Any accrued interest due as of the date of execution of the assignment of the loan to the Commissioner.
(2) Any advances approved by the Commissioner made previously by the lender under the provisions of the note of security instrument or instruments.
(3) Reimbursement for such reasonable collection costs, court costs, and attorney’s fees as may be approved by the Commissioner.
(4) Reimbursement for premiums paid on any hazard insurance policies held on the property.
(5) If payment is made in cash, an amount equivalent to the debenture interest which would have been earned as of the date insurance settlement occurs, except that when the lender fails to meet any one of the applicable requirements of §§ 220.812, 220.820, and 220.821 within the specified time (or within such further time as the Commissioner may approve in writing), the debenture interest shall be computed only to the date to which the particular action should have been taken or to which it was extended.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 220.823 Claim computation; items deducted.
If the lender is to receive payment in cash, there shall be deducted from the total of the added items in § 220.822 the following:
(a) Any balance of the loan not advanced to the borrower;
(b) Any cash held by the lender or its agents or to which it is entitled; including deposits made for the account of the borrower and which have not been applied in reduction of the principal obligation under the note and security instrument or instruments.
§ 220.830 Debenture interest rate.
Debentures shall bear interest from the date of issue, payable semiannually on the first day of January and the first day of July of each year at the rate in effect as of the date the commitment was issued or as of the date the loan was endorsed for insurance, whichever rate is higher. The applicable rates of interest will be published twice each year as a notice in the
§ 220.832 Maturity of debentures.
Debentures shall mature 10 years from the date of issue.
§ 220.834 Registration of debentures.
Debentures shall be registered as to principal and interest.
§ 220.836 Form and amounts of debentures.
Debentures issued under subpart D of this part shall be in such form and amounts; and shall be subject to such terms and conditions; and shall include such provisions for redemption, if any, as may be prescribed by the Secretary, with the approval of the Secretary of the Treasury; and may be in book entry or certificated registered form, or such other form as the Secretary by regulation may prescribe.
§ 220.838 Redemption of debentures.
Debentures shall, at the option of the Commissioner and with the approval of the Secretary of the Treasury, be redeemable at par plus accrued interest on any semiannual interest payment date on three months’ notice of redemption given in such manner as the Commissioner shall prescribe. The debenture interest on the debentures called for redemption shall cease on the semiannual interest date designated in the call notice. The Commissioner may include with the notice of redemption an offer to purchase the debentures at par plus accrued interest at any time during the period between the notice of redemption and the redemption date. If the debentures are purchased by the Commissioner after such call and prior to the named redemption date, the debenture interest shall cease on the date of purchase.
§ 220.840 Issue date of debentures.
The debentures shall be issued as of the date of the execution of the assignment of the loan to the Commissioner.
§ 220.842 Cash adjustment.
Any difference of less than $50 between the amount of debentures to be issued to the lender and the total amount of the lender’s claim, as approved by the Commissioner, may be adjusted by the issuance of a check in payment thereof.
§ 220.850 Assignment of insured loans.
(a) An insured loan may not be transferred or pledged prior to the full disbursement of the loan, except with the prior written approval of the Commissioner which approval may be subject to such conditions and qualifications as the Commissioner may prescribe. Subsequent to full disbursement such loan may be transferred only to a transferee who is a lender approved by the Commissioner. Upon such transfer and the assumption by the transferee of all obligations under the contract of insurance the transferor shall be released from its obligations under the contract of insurance.
(b) The contract of insurance shall terminate with respect to loans described in paragraph (a) of this section upon the happening of either of the following events:
(1) The transfer or pledge of the insured loan to any person, firm, or corporation, public or private, other than an approved lender.
(2) The disposal by a lender of any partial interest in the insured loan by means of a declaration of trust or by a participation or trust certificate or by any other device, unless with the prior written approval of the Commissioner, which approval may be subject to such conditions and qualifications as the Commissioner in his discretion may prescribe: Provided, That this paragraph shall not be applicable to any loan so long as it is held in a common trust fund maintained by a bank or trust company exclusively for the collective investment and reinvestment of moneys contributed thereto by the bank or trust company in its capacity as a trustee, executor or administrator; and in conformity with the rules and regulations prevailing from time to time of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, pertaining to the collective investment of trust funds: Provided further, That this paragraph shall not be applicable to any loan so long as it is held in a common trust estate administered by a bank or trust company which is subject to the inspection and supervision of a governmental agency, exclusively for the benefit of other banking institutions which are subject to the inspection and supervision of a governmental agency, and which are authorized by law to acquire beneficial interests in such common trust estate, nor to any loan transferred to such a bank or trust company as trustee exclusively for the benefit of outstanding owners of undivided interest in the trust estate, under the terms of certificates issued and sold more than three years prior to said transfer, by a corporation which is subject to the inspection and supervision of a governmental agency.
Subpart E – Servicing Responsibilities – Homes
§ 220.900 Cross-reference.
All of the provisions of subpart C, part 203 of the chapter concerning the responsibilities of servicers of mortgages insured under section 203 of the National Housing Act apply to mortgages covering 1- to 11-family dwellings insured under section 220 of the National Housing Act, except §§ 203.664 through 203.666.
PART 221 – LOW COST AND MODERATE INCOME MORTGAGE INSURANCE – SAVINGS CLAUSE
Subpart A – Eligibility Requirements – Low Cost Homes – Savings Clause
§ 221.1 Savings clause.
(a) Effective February 20, 2001, the authority to insure mortgages under section 221(d)(2) of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1715l(d)(2)) for low cost and moderate income mortgage insurance is terminated, except that HUD will endorse for insurance validly processed mortgages under direct endorsement where the credit worksheet was signed by the mortgagee’s underwriter before February 20, 2001.
(b) Subpart A of this part, as it existed immediately before February 20, 2001, will continue to govern the rights and obligations of insured mortgage lenders, mortgagors, and HUD with respect to section 221(d)(2) single family loans insured before February 20, 2001, or in accordance with paragraph (a) of this section, pursuant to the applicable provisions of this subpart.
Subpart B – Contract Rights and Obligations – Low Cost Homes
§ 221.251 Cross-reference.
(a) All of the provisions of subpart B, part 203 of this chapter covering mortgages insured under section 203 of the National Housing Act apply to mortgages covering one- to four-family dwellings insured under section 221 of the National Housing Act, except the following provisions:
(b) For the purposes of this subpart, all references in part 203 of this chapter to section 203 of the Act shall be construed to refer to section 221 of the Act, and all references to the Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund shall be construed to refer to the General Insurance Fund.
§ 221.252 Substitute mortgagors.
(a) Selling mortgagor. The mortgagee may effect the release of a mortgagor from personal liability on the mortgage note only if it obtains the Commissioner’s approval of a substitute mortgagor, as provided by this section.
(b) Purchasing mortgagor. The Commissioner may approve a substitute mortgagor with respect to any mortgage insured under subpart A of this part, if the substitute mortgagor is to occupy the dwelling as a principal residence or a secondary residence (as these terms are defined in § 221.20(c)) or is a private nonprofit or public entity as provided in section 221(h) of the National Housing Act.
(c) Applicability – current mortgagor. Paragraph (b) of this section applies to the Commissioner’s approval of a substitute mortgagor, only if the mortgage executed by the original mortgagor met the conditions of § 203.258(c) of this chapter.
(d) Applicability – earlier mortgagor. The occupancy and similar requirements set forth in § 203.258(d) of this chapter apply to mortgages insured under subpart A of this part.
(e) Mortgagees approved for participation in the Direct Endorsement program under § 203.3 of this chapter may, subject to limitations established by the Commissioner, themselves approve an appropriate substitute mortgagor under the section and need not obtain further specific approval from the Commissioner.
(f) Definition. As used in this section, the term substitute mortgagor includes:
(1) Persons who, upon the release by a mortgagee of a previous mortgagor from personal liability on the mortgage note, assume this liability and agree to pay the mortgage debts and
(2) Persons who purchase without assuming liability on the mortgage note or purchase where no release is given by the mortgagee to the previous mortgagor.
(a) All of the provisions of §§ 203.260 through 203.295 of this chapter relating to mortgage insurance premiums shall apply to mortgages insured under this subpart, except that as to mortgages meeting the special requirements of § 221.60 or § 221.65, such provisions shall only be applicable under the circumstances prescribed in paragraph (b) of this section. Notwithstanding any provision in the mortgage instrument, there shall be no adjusted mortgage insurance premium or voluntary termination charge due the Commissioner on account of the prepayment of any mortgage or the voluntary termination of any mortgage insurance contract where (1) The mortgage is prepaid in full, or (2) the Commissioner receives a request for voluntary termination on or after May 1, 1972.
(b) Whenever the interest rate on a mortgage insured under this part as having met the special requirement of § 221.60 or § 221.65 shall have been increased to the maximum rate in accordance with § 221.60(j), § 221.65(d)(4), or § 221.65(d)(5), the provisions of §§ 203.260 through 203.295 of this chapter relating to mortgage insurance premiums shall apply except that:
(1) References to the original principal amount shall be construed as the scheduled unpaid principal balance, without taking into account delinquent payments or prepayments, on the date of the change in interest rate required under the mortgage.
(2) References to the date of the issuance of a Mortgage Insurance Certificate or the date of the endorsement of the credit instrument or the date the insurance becomes effective shall be construed as the date of the change in interest required under the mortgage.
(3) References to the first year of amortization under the mortgage shall be construed as the period beginning on the date of the change in interest rate required under the mortgage and ending on the next anniversary of the beginning of amortization.
§ 221.255 Assignment option.
(a) A mortgagee holding a mortgage insured pursuant to a conditional or firm commitment issued on or before November 30, 1983 has the option to assign, transfer and deliver to the Commissioner the original credit instrument and the mortgage securing it, provided the mortgage is not in default at the expiration of 20 years from the date of final endorsement of the credit instrument. In processing a mortgagee’s claim for insurance benefits under this section, the Commissioner may direct the mortgagee to assign, transfer and deliver the original credit instrument, and the mortgage securing it, directly to the Government National Mortgage Association (GNMA). Upon such assignment, transfer and delivery, either to the Commissioner or to GNMA, as directed, the mortgage insurance contract shall terminate and the mortgagee shall be entitled to receive insurance benefits in accordance with this section.
(b) The mortgagee may exercise its assignment option within 1 year following the twentieth anniversary of the date the mortgage was endorsed for insurance.
(c) Upon the exercise of the assignment option the Commissioner shall issue to the assignor mortgagee debentures having a total face value equal to the amount of the original principal obligation of the mortgage which was unpaid on the date of the assignment, plus accrued interest to such date.
(d) The debentures issued pursuant to the exercise of an assignment option shall be dated as of the date the mortgage is assigned to the Commissioner and shall mature 10 years after such date.
(e) The debentures issued pursuant to the exercise of an assignment option shall bear interest at the going Federal rate at date of issuance. The going Federal rate means the annual rate of interest specified by the Secretary of the Treasury as applicable to the 6-month period which includes the issuance date of the debentures. The Secretary of the Treasury shall determine this applicable rate by estimating the average yield to maturity, on the basis of daily closing market bid quotations or prices during the month of May or the month of November, as the case may be, next preceding such 6-month period, on all outstanding marketable obligations of the United States having a maturity date of 8 to 12 years from the first day of May or November, as the case may be. If there should be no outstanding marketable obligations of the United States having the 8 to 12 year maturity at the time the Secretary of the Treasury is required to determine the debenture rate involved, the obligation next shorter than 8 years and the obligation next longer than 12 years respectively, shall be used.
(f) Debentures shall bear interest from the date of issue, payable semiannually on the first day of January and the first day of July of each year at the rate in effect on the issue date, a date which shall be established as provided in § 203.410 of this chapter. The interest rate shall be established by the Commissioner in an amount not in excess of the annual rate of interest which the Secretary of the Treasury shall specify as applicable to the 6-month period (consisting of January through June, or July through December) which includes the issuance date of such debentures, which applicable rate for each 6-month period shall be determined by the Secretary of the Treasury, at the request of the Commissioner, by estimating the average yield to maturity, on the basis of daily closing market bid quotations or prices during the calendar month next preceding the establishment of such rate of interest, on all outstanding marketable obligations of the United States having a maturity date of 15 years or more from the first day of such next preceding month, and by adjusting such estimated average annual yield to the nearest one-eighth of 1 per centum.
(a) Where a mortgage meets the special requirements of § 221.60 or § 221.65, the following procedures are applicable:
(1) The mortgagee shall determine, at least biennially, whether the mortgagor has continued to occupy the property securing the mortgage. If the mortgagee determines that the mortgagor is not occupying the property or that the mortgagor has sold the property subject to the mortgage to a purchaser not qualifying under the provisions of § 221.60(h) or § 221.65(d)(4) (as appropriate) for the continuation of a below market interest rate, interest on such mortgage shall be computed by the mortgagee at the highest rate permissible under the mortgage. The computation at the higher rate shall be effective from the first day of the month following the month in which the right to collect interest at the increased rate first accrued, as determined by the mortgagee.
(2) The mortgagee shall determine the mortgagor’s family income, at least biennially, and shall increase the mortgage interest pursuant to the requirements of §§ 221.60(g) and 221.65(d)(5), as appropriate, to comply with the requirements of such sections. The computation at the higher rate shall be effective from the first day of the month following the month in which the mortgagee determines that the mortgagor’s family income was increased.
(b) The mortgagee shall notify the Commissioner, on a form prescribed by the Commissioner, within 30 days of making the determination of the right to compute interest at the higher rate, as provided in paragraph (a) of this section, of:
(1) The date on which such right first accrued, and
(2) The outstanding principal balance of the mortgage on the first day of the month following the date on which such right first accrued.
(c) The liability for payment of mortgage insurance premiums shall begin on and be computed from the first day of the month following the date on which the right to compute interest at the higher rate shall have first accrued.
§ 221.275 Method of paying insurance benefits.
If the application for insurance benefits is acceptable to the Commissioner, all of the insurance claim shall be paid in cash unless the mortgagee files a written request with the application for payment in debentures. If such a request is made, all of the claim shall be paid by issuing debentures and by making a cash payment adjusting any differences between the total amount of the claim and the amount of the debentures issued.
§ 221.280 Waived title objections.
(a) General provisions. All of the provisions of § 203.389 of this chapter (relating to the waiver by the Commissioner of objections to title) shall apply to mortgages insured under this subpart, with the exception of mortgages involving condominium units.
(b) Provisions applicable to condominium units. Where the mortgage involves a condominium unit, the Commissioner shall not object to title by reason of the following matters:
(1) Violations of a restriction based on race, color, or creed, even where such restriction provides for a penalty of reversion or forfeiture of title or a lien for liquidated damage.
(2) Easements for public utilities along one or more of the property lines, provided the exercise of the rights thereunder do not interfere with any of the buildings or improvements located on the subject property.
(3) Encroachments on the subject property by improvements on adjoining property, provided such encroachments do not interfere with the use of any improvements on the subject property.
(4) Variations between the length of the subject property lines as shown on the application for insurance and as shown by the record or possession lines, provided such variations do not interfere with the use of any of the improvements on the subject property.
(5) Customary buildings or use restrictions for breach of which there is no reversion and which have not been violated to a material extent.
Special Provisions Applicable Only to Mortgages Involving Condominium Units
§ 221.300 Changes in the plan of apartment ownership.
The mortgagee shall notify the Commissioner of any changes in the plan of apartment ownership and in the administration of the property. Such notification shall be given either at the time of the conveyance of the property or at the time of the assignment of the mortgage. Any changes in such plan shall require approval by the Commissioner.
§ 221.305 Condition of the multifamily structure.
(a) When a family unit is conveyed or a mortgage is assigned to the Commissioner, the family unit and the common areas and facilities (including restricted common areas and facilities) designated for the particular unit shall be undamaged by fire, earthquake, tornado, or boiler explosion, except if the property has been damaged, either of the following actions shall be taken:
(1) The property may be repaired prior to its conveyance or prior to the assignment of the mortgage to the Commissioner.
(2) With the prior approval of the Commissioner, the property may be conveyed or the mortgage assigned to the Commissioner without repairing the damage. In such instances, the Commissioner shall deduct from the insurance benefits either his estimate of the decrease in value of the family unit or the amount of any insurance recovery received by the mortgagee, whichever is the greater.
(b) If the property has been damaged by fire and such property was not covered by fire insurance at the time of the damage, the mortgagee may convey the property or assign the mortgage to the Commissioner without deduction from the insurance benefits for any loss occasioned by such fire if the following conditions are met:
(1) The property shall have been covered by fire insurance at the time the mortgage was insured.
(2) The fire insurance shall have been later cancelled or renewal shall have been refused by the insuring company.
(3) The mortgagee shall have notified the Commissioner within 30 days (or within such further time as the Commissioner may approve) of the cancellation of the fire insurance or of the refusal of the insuring company to renew the fire insurance. This notification shall have been accompanied by a certification of the mortgagee that diligent efforts were made, but it was unable to obtain fire insurance coverage at reasonably competitive rates and that it will continue its efforts to obtain adequate fire insurance coverage at competitive rates.
§ 221.310 Assessment of taxes.
When a family unit is conveyed to the Commissioner or a mortgage is assigned to the Commissioner, the unit shall be assessed and subject to assessment for taxes pertaining only to that unit.
§ 221.315 Certificate of tax assessment.
The mortgagee shall certify, as of the date of filing for record of the deed or assignment of the mortgage to the Commissioner, that the family unit is assessed and subject to assessment for taxes pertaining to that unit.
§ 221.320 Certificate or statement of condition.
(a) At the time of the assignment of the mortgage or conveyance of the property to the Commissioner, the mortgagee shall, as of the date of the filing for record of the deed or assignment,
(1) Certify that the conditions of § 221.305(a) have been met; or
(2) Submit a statement describing any such damage that may still exist.
(b) In the absence of evidence to the contrary, the mortgagee’s certificate or its statement as to damage shall be accepted by the Commissioner as establishing the condition of the family unit and the common areas and facilities including restricted common areas and facilities designated for the particular unit.
§ 221.325 Cancellation of hazard insurance.
The provisions of § 203.382 of this chapter are incorporated by reference and shall apply to hazard insurance policies carried solely for the family unit.
Subpart C – Eligibility Requirements – Moderate Income Projects
§ 221.501 Eligibility requirements.
The requirements set forth in 24 CFR part 200, subpart A, apply to multifamily project mortgages insured under section 221 of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1715l), as amended.
Subpart D – Contract Rights and Obligations – Moderate Income Projects
§ 221.751 Cross-reference.
(a) All of the provisions of subpart B, part 207 of this chapter, covering mortgages insured under section 207 of the National Housing Act, apply with full force and effect to multifamily project mortgages insured under section 221 of the National Housing Act, except the following provisions:
(b) For the purposes of this subpart, all references in part 207 of this chapter to section 207 of the act shall be construed to refer to section 221 of the Act, and all references to part 207 shall be construed to refer to this subpart.
§ 221.753 Termination of mortgage insurance.
In addition to the provisions of § 207.253a, the following requirements apply to certain multifamily mortgages insured under section 221 of the National Housing Act:
(a) For those projects qualifying as eligible low income housing under § 248.201, the contract of insurance may be terminated only as provided in part 248.
(b) For those projects subject to section 250(a) of the National Housing Act, the contract of insurance may be terminated only if the Commissioner determines that the requirements of section 250(a) are met.
§ 221.755 Premiums first, second, third and operating loss loans.
All of the provisions of §§ 207.252 and 207.252a of this chapter, relating to mortgage insurance premiums, apply to mortgages insured under this subpart that provide for interest at the market rate prescribed in § 221.518(a) except that as to mortgages insured under this subpart pursuant to section 238(c) of the Act all mortgage insurance premiums due in accordance with §§ 207.252 and 207.252a shall be calculated on the basis of one percent. The provisions of § 207.252. shall not apply to:
(a) Mortgages that provide for interest during the construction period at the market rate and for interest subsequent to final endorsement at the below market rate prescribed in § 221.518(b); or
(b) Mortgages encumbering a project in which all units are covered by an annual contributions contract issued pursuant to section 10(c) of the Housing Act of 1937.
§ 221.761 Forbearance relief.
(a) In a case where the mortgage is in default, the mortgagor and the mortgagee may enter into a forbearance agreement for the reduction or suspension of regular mortgage payments for a specified period of time, if the following requirements are met:
(1) The mortgage was endorsed for insurance on or after July 7, 1961.
(2) The Commissioner determines that the default was due to circumstances beyond the mortgagor’s control and that the mortgage probably will be restored to good standing within a reasonable period of time and evidences such determination by written approval of the forbearance agreement.
(b) The time specified in § 207.258(a) of this chapter, within which a mortgagee shall give the Commissioner written notice of its intention to file an insurance claim, shall be suspended for the period of time specified in the forbearance agreement as long as the mortgagor complies with the requirements of such agreement.
(c) If the mortgagor fails to meet the requirements of a forbearance agreement or to cure the default under the mortgage at the expiration of the forbearance period, and such failure continues for a period of 30 days, the mortgagee shall notify the Commissioner of such failure. Within 45 days thereafter, unless a modification or extension of the forbearance agreement has been approved by the Commissioner, the mortgagee shall notify the Commissioner of its election to file an insurance claim and of its decision to either assign the mortgage to the Commissioner or to acquire and convey title to the property to the Commissioner. If the mortgage is assigned to the Commissioner, the special insurance benefits prescribed in § 221.763 shall be applicable.
§ 221.762 Payment of insurance benefits.
All of the provisions of § 207.259 of this chapter relating to insurance benefits apply to multifamily project mortgages insured under this subpart, except as provided in this section:
(a) [Reserved]
(b) Below market interest rate mortgages. Where the mortgage has been finally endorsed and the special below market interest rate provided in § 221.518(b) is applicable as of the date of default, the 1 percent deduction from insurance benefits prescribed in § 207.259(b)(2)(iv) of this chapter shall not be applicable.
(c) Mortgages financed with section 11(b) obligations. Where the funds for a mortgage loan are provided by obligations that are tax-exempt under section 11(b) of the United States Housing Act of 1937 (24 CFR part 811), the one percent deduction from insurance benefits prescribed in § 207.259(b)(2)(iv) of this chapter shall not be applicable to claims with respect to multifamily rental housing projects for which a firm commitment for mortgage insurance was issued on or after March 12, 1979.
§ 221.763 Special insurance benefits – forbearance relief cases.
(a) In the case of a mortgage that provides for payment of interest at the market rate prescribed in § 221.518(a), if the mortgagor fails to meet the requirements of a forbearance agreement or to cure the default under the mortgage at the expiration of the forbearance agreement, the mortgagee shall be entitled to obtain a special insurance payment in cash, in lieu of the insurance benefits otherwise provided under this subpart. To receive the special insurance payment, the mortgagee shall assign the mortgage to the Commissioner in compliance with the requirements of § 207.258(b) of this chapter.
(b) The special insurance benefit to the mortgagee shall be a cash payment computed in accordance with § 207.259(b) of this chapter, except that in lieu of the allowance for debenture interest in § 207.259(b)(1)(iii) of this chapter, the payment shall include the amount of the unpaid accrued mortgage interest computed to the date the assignment of the mortgage to the Commissioner is filed for record. In addition, there shall be included in the cash payment an amount equivalent to the debenture interest which would have been earned from the date the mortgage assignment was filed for record to the date the payment is made; except that when the mortgagee fails to meet any of the applicable requirements of § 207.258(b) of this chapter and § 221.761(c) within the specified times and in a manner satisfactory to the Commissioner (or within such further time as the Commissioner may approve in writing), such debenture interest allowance shall be computed only to the date on which the particular required action should have been taken.
§ 221.770 Assignment option.
A mortgagee holding a conditional or firm commitment issued on or before November 30, 1983 (or, in the Direct Endorsement program, a property appraisal report signed by the mortgagee’s approved underwriter on or before November 30, 1983) has the option to assign, transfer and deliver to the Commissioner the original credit instrument and the mortgage securing it, provided that the mortgage is not in default at the expiration of 20 years from the date of final endorsement of the credit instrument. In processing a mortgagee’s claim for insurance benefits under this section, the Commissioner may direct the mortgagee to assign, transfer and deliver the original credit instrument, and the mortgage securing it, directly to the Government National Mortgage Association (GNMA). Upon such assignment, transfer and delivery either to the Commissioner or to GNMA, as directed, the mortgage insurance contract shall terminate and the mortgagee shall be entitled to receive insurance benefits in accordance with § 221.780.
§ 221.775 Option period.
The mortgagee may exercise its option to assign within one year following the twentieth anniversary of the date the mortgage was finally endorsed for insurance.
§ 221.780 Issuance of debentures.
Upon the exercise of the assignment option and the satisfactory performance of the requirements as to assignment set out in § 207.258 of this chapter, the Commissioner shall issue the assignor mortgagee debentures having a total par value equal to the amount of the original principal obligation of the mortgage which was unpaid on the date of the assignment, plus accrued interest to such date.
§ 221.785 Date of maturity of debentures.
The debentures issues pursuant to the exercise of an assignment option shall be dated as of the date the mortgage is assigned to the Commissioner and shall mature 10 years after such date.
§ 221.790 Debenture interest rate.
The debentures issued pursuant to the exercise of an assignment option shall bear interest at the going Federal rate at date of issuance. The going Federal rate means the annual rate of interest specified by the Secretary of the Treasury as applicable to the 6-month period which includes the issuance date of the debentures. The Secretary of the Treasury shall determine this applicable rate by estimating the average yield to maturity, on the basis of daily closing market bid quotations or prices during the month of May or the month of November, as the case may be, next preceding such 6-month period, on all outstanding marketable obligations of the United States having a maturity date of 8 to 12 years from the first day of May or November, as the case may be. If there should be no outstanding marketable obligations of the United States having the 8 to 12 year maturity at the time the Secretary of the Treasury is required to determine the debenture rate involved, the obligation next shorter than 8 years and the obligation next longer than 12 years respectively shall be used.
§ 221.795 Displacement – below market interest rate mortgages.
(a) Minimizing displacement. Consistent with the other goals and objectives of this part, Owners shall assure that they have taken all reasonable steps to minimize the displacement of persons (households, businesses, nonprofit organizations, and farms) as a result of a project assisted under this part.
(b) Temporary relocation. The following policies cover residential tenants who will not be required to move permanently but who must relocate temporarily to permit rehabilitation or other work for the project. Such tenants must be provided:
(1) Reimbursement for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with the temporary relocation, including the cost of moving to and from the temporarily occupied housing, any increase in monthly rent/utility costs and any incidental expenses.
(2) Appropriate advisory services, including reasonable advance written notice of:
(i) The date and approximate duration of the temporary relocation;
(ii) The location of the suitable, decent, safe, and sanitary dwelling to be made available for the temporary period;
(iii) The terms and conditions under which the tenant may lease and occupy a suitable, decent, safe, and sanitary dwelling in the building/complex following completion of the rehabilitation; and
(iv) The provisions of paragraph (b)(1) of this section.
(c) Relocation assistance for displaced persons. A “displaced person” (defined in paragraph (g) of this section) must be provided relocation assistance at the levels described in, and in accordance with the requirements of, the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970, as amended (URA) (42 U.S.C. 4201-4655) and implementing regulations at 49 CFR part 24. A “displaced person” shall be advised of his or her rights under the Fair Housing Act (42 U.S.C. 3601-19), and, if the representative comparable replacement dwelling used to establish the amount of the replacement housing payment to be provided to a minority person is located in an area of minority concentration, such person also shall be given, if possible, referrals to comparable and suitable, decent, safe and sanitary replacement dwellings not located in such areas.
(d) Real property acquisition requirements. The acquisition of real property for a project is subject to the URA and the requirements described in 49 CFR part 24, subpart B.
(e) Appeals. A person who disagrees with the Owner’s determination concerning whether the person qualifies as a “displaced person,” or with the amount of relocation assistance for which the person is eligible, may file a written appeal of that determination with the Owner. A person who is dissatisfied with the Owner’s determination on his or her appeal may submit a written request for review of that determination to the HUD Field Office.
(f) Responsibility of Owner. (1) The Owner shall certify (i.e., provide assurance of compliance as required by 49 CFR part 24) that the Owner will comply with the URA, the regulations at 49 CFR part 24, and the requirements of this section. The Owner shall ensure such compliance notwithstanding any third party’s contractual obligation to the Owner to comply with these provisions.
(2) The cost of required relocation assistance is an eligible project cost in the same manner and to the same extent as other project costs. Such costs also may be paid with funds available from other sources.
(3) The Owner shall maintain records in sufficient detail to demonstrate compliance with these provisions. The Owner shall maintain data on the race, ethnic, gender, and disability status of displaced persons.
(g) Definition of displaced person. (1) For purposes of this section, the term displaced person means a person (household, business, nonprofit organization, or farm) that moves from real property, or moves personal property from real property, permanently, as a direct result of acquisition, rehabilitation, or demolition for a project assisted under this part. The term “displaced person” includes, but may not be limited to:
(i) A tenant-occupant of a dwelling unit who moves from the building/complex, permanently, after the Owner executes the agreement covering the rehabilitation, demolition or acquisition, if the move occurs before the tenant is provided written notice offering him or her the opportunity to lease and occupy a suitable, decent, safe, and sanitary dwelling in the same building/complex, under reasonable terms and conditions, upon completion of the project. Such reasonable terms and conditions include a monthly rent and estimated average monthly utility costs that do not exceed the amount approved by HUD;
(ii) A tenant-occupant of a dwelling who is required to relocate temporarily, but does not return to the building/complex, if either:
(A) The tenant is not offered payment for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with the temporary relocation, including the cost of moving to and from the temporarily occupied unit, any increased housing costs and incidental expenses; or
(B) Other conditions of the temporary relocation are not reasonable; or
(iii) A tenant-occupant of a dwelling who moves from the building/complex, permanently, after he or she has been required to move to another dwelling unit in the same building/complex in order to carry out the project, if either:
(A) The tenant is not offered reimbursement for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with the move; or
(B) Other conditions of the move are not reasonable; or
(iv) Any person, including a person who moves before the Owner’s execution of the agreement covering the rehabilitation, demolition, or acquisition, if the Owner or HUD determines that the displacement resulted directly from rehabilitation, demolition or acquisition for the assisted project.
(2) Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph (g)(1) of this section, a person does not qualify as a “displaced person” (and is not eligible for relocation assistance under the URA or this section), if:
(i) The person has been evicted for serious or repeated violation of the terms and conditions of the lease or occupancy agreement, violation of applicable Federal, State or local law, or other good cause, and HUD determines that the eviction was not undertaken for the purpose of evading the obligation to provide relocation assistance;
(ii) The person moved into the property after the execution of the agreement covering the rehabilitation, demolition or acquisition and, before signing a lease and commencing occupancy, received written notice of the project, its possible impact on the person (e.g., the person may be displaced, temporarily relocated or suffer a rent increase) and the fact that he or she would not qualify as a “displaced person” (or for any assistance provided under this section) as a result of the project;
(iii) The person is ineligible under 49 CFR 24.2(g)(2); or
(iv) HUD determines that the person was not displaced as a direct result of acquisition, rehabilitation, or demolition for the project.
(3) The Owner may ask HUD, at any time, to determine whether a displacement is or would be covered by this section.
(h) Definition of initiation of negotiations. For purposes of determining the formula for computing the replacement housing assistance to be provided to a residential tenant displaced as a direct result of privately undertaken rehabilitation, demolition, or acquisition of the real property, the term initiation of negotiations means the Owner’s execution of the agreement covering the rehabilitation, demolition, or acquisition.
Subpart E – Servicing Responsibilities – Low Cost Homes
§ 221.800 Cross-reference.
All of the provisions of subpart C, part 203 of the chapter concerning the responsibilities of servicers of mortgages insured under section 203 of the National Housing Act apply to mortgages covering one- to four-family dwellings to be insured under section 221 of the National Housing Act, except §§ 203.664 through 203.666.
PART 231 – HOUSING MORTGAGE INSURANCE FOR THE ELDERLY
Subpart A – Eligibility Requirements
§ 231.1 Eligibility requirements.
The requirements set forth in 24 CFR part 200, subpart A, apply to multifamily project mortgages insured under section 231 of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1715v), as amended.
Subpart B – Contract Rights and Obligations
§ 231.251 Cross-reference.
(a) All of the provisions of part 207, subpart B of this chapter covering mortgages insured under section 207 of the National Housing Act apply to mortgages insured under section 231 of such Act.
(b) For the purposes of this subpart all references in part 207 of this chapter to section 207 of the Act shall be construed to refer to section 231 of the Act.
PART 232 – MORTGAGE INSURANCE FOR NURSING HOMES, INTERMEDIATE CARE FACILITIES, BOARD AND CARE HOMES, AND ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES
Subpart A – Eligibility Requirements
§ 232.1 Eligibility requirements, generally; applicability of certain requirements.
(a) Eligibility, generally. All of the requirements set forth in 24 CFR part 200, subpart A, except for the requirements for “eligible mortgagor” in 24 CFR 200.5, apply to mortgages insured under section 232 of the National Housing Act (12 U.S.C. 1715w), as amended.
(b) Applicability of certain requirements. As of October 9, 2012 the provisions in 24 CFR 207.255(b)(5), 207.258, 232.3, 232.11, 232.254, 232.903(c) and (d), and subpart F of part 232, excluding §§ 232.1007, 232.1009, and 232.1015 of subpart F are applicable only to transactions for which a firm commitment has been issued under this part on or after July 12, 2013.
§ 232.2 License.
The Commissioner shall not insure any mortgage under this part unless the facility is regulated by the State, municipality or other political subdivision in which the facility is or is to be located, and the appropriate agency for such jurisdiction provides a license, certificate or other assurances the Commissioner considers necessary, that the facility complies with any applicable State or local standards and requirements for such facility.
§ 232.3 Eligible borrower.
The borrower shall be a single asset entity acceptable to the Commissioner, as may be limited by the applicable section of the Act, and shall possess the powers necessary and incidental to owning the project, except that the Commissioner may approve a non-single asset borrower entity under such circumstances, terms, and conditions determined and specified as acceptable to the Commissioner.
§ 232.7 Bathroom.
(a) General requirement. For a board and care home or assisted living facility to be eligible for insurance under this part:
(1) The board and care home or assisted living facility must have no less than one full bathroom provided for every four residents; and
(2) Bathroom access from any bedroom or sleeping area must not pass through a public corridor or area.
(b) Exemption for existing projects providing memory care. The following applies to a board and care home or assisted living facility that provides housing for residents in need of memory care, i.e., care for residents who have cognitive impairments, such as Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias:
(1) Subject to paragraph (b)(2) of this section, a project seeking insurance under subpart E, pursuant to section 223(f) or 223(a)(7) of the National Housing Act, may be eligible for insurance without meeting the general requirement in paragraph (a) of this section, if the project meets the following four requirements:
(i) Memory care residents are in a separate, secured, and locked area of the board and care home or assisted living facility;
(ii) Any bathroom access from a memory care resident’s bedroom or sleeping area that passes through a public corridor or area is in a separate, secured, and locked area of the board and care home or assisted living facility prescribed in (b)(1)(i) of this section;
(iii) Memory care residents receive full assistance or supervision while bathing; and
(iv) Memory care residents reside in wards that contain no more than two beds per unit and have a half-bath in each unit.
(2) If a facility serving memory care residents also serves residents who are not in a separate, secured, and locked area of the board and care home or assisted living facility, this exemption applies only to the separate, secured, and locked area in which solely memory care residents reside.
§ 232.11 Establishment and maintenance of long-term debt service reserve account.
(a) To be eligible for insurance under this part, and except with respect to Supplemental Loans to Finance Purchase and Installation of Fire Safety Equipment (subpart C of this part), if HUD determines the mortgage presents an atypical long-term risk, HUD may require that the borrower establish, at final closing and maintain throughout the term of the mortgage, a long-term debt service reserve account.
(b) The long-term debt service reserve account, if required, may be financed as part of the initial mortgage amount, provided that the maximum mortgage amount as otherwise calculated is not thereby exceeded.
(c) The amount required to be initially placed in the long-term debt service reserve account and the minimum long-term balance to be maintained in that account will be determined during underwriting and separately identified in the firm commitment. Although HUD may, when appropriate to avert a mortgage insurance claim, permit the balance to fall below the required minimum long-term balance, the borrower may not take any distribution of mortgaged property except when both the long-term debt service reserve account is funded at the minimal long-term level and such distribution is otherwise permissible.
Subpart B – Contract Rights and Obligations
§ 232.251 Cross-reference.
(a) All of the provisions, except § 207.258b, of part 207, subpart B of this chapter relating to mortgages insured under section 207 of the National Housing Act, apply to mortgages insured under section 232 of the Act.
(b) For the purposes of this subpart all references in part 207 of this chapter to section 207 of the Act shall be construed to refer to section 232 of the Act.
§ 232.252 Definitions.
All of the definitions contained in § 232.1 shall apply to this subpart. In addition, as used in this part, the following term shall have the meaning indicated:
(a) Contract of insurance means the agreement evidenced by the Commissioner’s insurance endorsement and includes the provisions of this subpart and of the Act.
§ 232.254 Withdrawal of project funds, including for repayments of advances from the borrower, operator, or management agent.
Borrower may make and take distributions of mortgaged property, as set forth in the mortgage loan transactional documents, to the extent and as permitted by the law of the applicable jurisdiction, provided that, upon each calculation of borrower surplus cash (as defined by HUD), which calculation shall be made no less frequently than semi-annually, borrower must demonstrate positive surplus cash, or to the extent surplus cash is negative, repay any distributions taken during such calculation period within 30 calendar days unless a longer time period is approved by HUD. Borrower shall be deemed to have taken distributions to the extent that surplus cash is negative unless, in conjunction with the calculation of surplus cash, borrower provides to HUD documentation evidencing, to HUD’s reasonable satisfaction, a lesser amount of total distributions. To the extent that the provisions of this section are inconsistent with the provisions in a borrower’s existing transactional loan documents, including without limitation any HUD-required regulatory agreement, the provisions of the transactional loan documents shall apply.
§ 232.256 Partial payment of claims.
(a) When a lender for a loan on a healthcare project becomes eligible to file an insurance claim and to assign the mortgage to the Commissioner pursuant to § 207.258, the Commissioner may request the lender, in lieu of assignment, to accept a partial payment of the claim under the mortgage insurance contract and recast the mortgage, under such terms and conditions as the Commissioner may determine.
(b) The Commissioner may request the lender to participate in a partial payment of claim in lieu of assignment only after a determination that partial payment would be less costly to the Federal Government than other reasonable alternatives for maintaining the project and that would keep the healthcare facility operational to serve community needs. In addition to any findings that may be provided in other guidance, the Commissioner shall base the determination on the findings listed below:
(1) The lender is entitled, after a default as defined in § 207.255, to assign the mortgage in exchange for the payment of insurance benefits;
(2) The relief resulting from partial payment, when considered with other resources available to the project, would be sufficient to restore the financial viability of the project;
(3) The project is or can (at reasonable cost) be made physically sound;
(4) The current or proposed operator of the facility is satisfactory to the Commissioner, as demonstrated by past experience in operating similar types of healthcare facilities and by state regulatory performance;
(5) The default under the insured mortgage was beyond the control of the borrower and/or operator, or in the case of a transfer of physical assets (TPA), the proposed borrower or operator, unless the Commissioner determines that any borrower/operator deficiencies giving rise to the default have clearly been addressed; and
(6) The project is serving as, or potentially could serve as, a needed nursing home, intermediate care facility, board and care home, or assisted living facility.
(c) Partial payment of a claim under this section shall be made only when:
(1) The property covered by the mortgage is free and clear of all liens other than the insured first mortgage and such other liens as the Commissioner may have approved;
(2) The lender has voluntarily agreed to accept a PPC under the mortgage insurance contract and to recast the remaining mortgage amount under terms and conditions prescribed by the Commissioner; and
(3) The borrower has agreed to repay to the Commissioner an amount equal to the partial payment, with the obligation secured by a second mortgage on the project containing terms and conditions prescribed by the Commissioner. The terms of the second mortgage will be determined on a case-by-case basis to ensure that the estimated project income will be sufficient to cover estimated operating expenses and debt service on the recast insured mortgage. The Commissioner may provide for postponed amortization of the second mortgage.
(d) Payment of insurance benefits under this section shall be in cash.
(e) A lender receiving a partial payment of claim, following the Commissioner’s endorsement of the mortgage for full insurance under 24 CFR part 252, will pay HUD a fee in an amount set forth through
Subpart C – Eligibility Requirements – Supplemental Loans To Finance Purchase and Installation of Fire Safety Equipment
§ 232.500 Definitions.
In addition to the definitions contained in subpart A, incorporated herein by reference, the following terms, as used in §§ 232.500 et seq., shall have the meaning indicated:
(a) Insured loan means a loan insured by the endorsement of the credit instrument by the Commissioner.
(b) Insurance premium means the loan insurance premium paid by the financial institution to the Commissioner in consideration of the contract of insurance.
(c)(1) Fire safety equipment means equipment that is purchased, installed, and maintained in a nursing home, intermediate care facility, assisted living facility, or board and care home and that meets the following standards for the applicable occupancy:
(i) The edition of The Life Safety Code of the National Fire Protection Association as accepted by the Department of Health and Human Services in 42 CFR 483.70; or
(ii) A standard mandated by a State under the provisions of section 1616(e) of the Social Security Act.
(iii) Any appropriate requirement approved by the Secretary of Health and Human Services for providers of services under title XVIII or title XIX of the Social Security Act.
(2) In addition to those requirements approved by the Secretary of Health and Human Services as necessary for the appropriate level of occupancy, fire safety equipment may also include fire safety-related improvements that are not mandatory under the requirements of the Secretary of Health and Human Services, but which the Secretary of Health and Human Services considers acceptable and reasonable for protection against the hazards of fire and which the borrower agrees to install.
(3) For the purposes of this definition, the terms nursing home and intermediate care facility shall include those facilities designated as skilled nursing facilities or intermediate care facilities by the Department of Health and Human Services.
(d) Fire safety loan means any form of secured or unsecured obligation determined by the Commissioner to be eligible for insurance under this subpart and, in the case of an assisted living facility or a board and care home, made with respect to such a home located in a State which the Secretary has determined is in compliance with the provisions of section 1616(e) of the Social Security Act.
(e) Equipment cost means the reasonable cost of fire safety equipment fully installed as determined by the Commissioner.
(f) Insured loan maturity means the date on which the loan indebtedness would be extinguished if paid in accordance with periodic payments provided for in the loan instrument or instruments.
(g) Approved lender means a financial institution or other mortgagee approved by the Commissioner as eligible for insurance under section 2 of the National Housing Act, or a mortgagee approved under section 203(b)(1) of the National Housing Act.
Fees and Charges
§ 232.505 Application and application fee.
(a) Filing of application. An application for insurance of a fire safety loan for a nursing home, intermediate care facility, assisted living facility or board and care home shall be submitted on an approved HUD form by an approved lender and by the owners of the project to the HUD office.
(b) Application fee. See 24 CFR 200.40(d)(2).
§ 232.510 Commitment and commitment fee.
(a) Issuance of commitment. Upon approval of an application for insurance, a commitment shall be issued by the Commissioner setting forth the terms and conditions upon which the fire safety loan will be insured.
(b) Type of commitment. The commitment will provide for the insurance of the loan after satisfactory completion of installation of the fire safety equipment, as determined by the Commissioner.
(c) Term of commitment. A commitment shall have a term as the Commissioner deems necessary for satisfactory completion of installation.
(d) Commitment fee. See 24 CFR 200.40(d)(2).
(e) Increase in commitment prior to endorsement. An application, filed prior to endorsement, for an increase in the amount of an outstanding firm commitment shall be accompanied by an additional application fee. The additional application fee shall be in an amount determined by the Secretary as equal to the amount determined under 24 CFR 200.40(d)(2), which shall not exceed $5.00 per thousand dollars of the amount of the requested increase. If an inspection fee was required in the original commitment, an additional inspection fee shall be paid in an amount computed at the same dollar rate per thousand dollars of the amount of increase in commitment as was used for the inspection fee required in the original commitment. The additional inspection fee shall be paid prior to the date installation of fire safety equipment is begun, or, if installation has begun, it shall be paid with the application for increase.
§ 232.515 Refund of fees.
If the amount of the commitment issued or an increase in the loan amount prior to endorsement is less than the amount applied for, the Commissioner shall refund the excess amount of the application fee submitted by the applicant. If an application is rejected before it is assigned for processing, or in such other instances as the Commissioner may determine, the entire application fee or any portion thereof may be returned to the applicant.
§ 232.520 Maximum fees and charges by lender.
See 24 CFR 200.40 titled “HUD fees” and 200.41 titled “Maximum mortgage fees and charges” for maximum fees and charges applicable to mortgages insured under 24 CFR part 232.
§ 232.522 Inspection fee.
See 24 CFR 200.40 titled “HUD fees” and 200.41 titled “Maximum mortgage fees and charges” for maximum fees and charges applicable to mortgages insured under 24 CFR part 232.
Eligible Security Instruments
§ 232.525 Note and security form.
The lender shall present for insurance a note and security instrument, if required, on forms approved by the Commissioner for use in the jurisdiction in which the property to be improved is located.
§ 232.530 Disbursement of proceeds.
At the time of endorsement for insurance of the note by the Commissioner, the entire principal amount of the note shall have been disbursed to the borrower or to his creditors for his account and with his consent.
§ 232.535 Loan multiples – minimum principal.
The loan shall involve a principal obligation in multiples of $100, and the minimum principal obligation shall be $10,000.
§ 232.540 Method of loan payment and amortization period.
See 24 CFR 200.82 titled “Maturity” for loan payment and amortization period requirements applicable to mortgages insured under 24 CFR part 232.
§ 232.545 Covenant against liens.
(a) The security instrument shall contain a covenant against the creation by the borrower of additional liens against the property superior or inferior to the lien of such instrument, except with the prior approval of the Commissioner.
(b) The covenant required under paragraph (a) of this section shall not apply where a lien inferior to the lien of the insured mortgage is given in favor of a Federal, State or local governmental agency or instrumentality under such circumstances as may be approved by the Commissioner, provided the source of funds for repayment of the inferior lien is limited to surplus cash or residual receipts.
The security instrument shall provide for payments by the borrower to the lender on each interest payment date of an amount sufficient to accumulate in the hands of the lender one payment period prior to its due date the next annual insurance premium payable by the lender to the Commissioner.
§ 232.555 Security instrument and lien.
The security instrument shall cover the entire property included in the project, shall be a lien on the real property of the project under the laws of the jurisdiction in which the project is located, and may be junior to such prior liens or mortgages indebtedness as the Commissioner may approve. The Commissioner may from time to time require such other security, in lieu of, or in addition to, a lien on real property as he may prescribe.
§ 232.560 Interest rate.
(a) The loan shall bear interest at the rate agreed upon by the lender and the borrower.
(b) Interest shall be payable in monthly installments on the principal amount of the loan outstanding on the due date of each installment.
§ 232.565 Maximum loan amount.
The principal amount of the loan shall not exceed the lower of the Commissioner’s estimate of the cost of the fire safety equipment, including the cost of installation and eligible fees, or the amount supported by ninety percent (90%) of the residual income, which is ninety percent (90%) of the amount of net income remaining after payment of all existing debt service requirements, as determined by the Commissioner. The cost of installation may include the cost of such other work to be performed on the project necessary to meet the requirements of the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Commissioner to enhance the fire safety of the project, and such costs incidental to installation as may be approved by the Commissioner.
§ 232.570 Endorsement of credit instrument.
The Commissioner shall indicate his insurance of the loan by endorsing the credit instrument and identifying the section of the Act and regulations under which the loan is insured and the date of insurance, subject to the presentation and approval by him of the following:
(a) Certification of full disbursement of loan proceeds as provided for in § 232.530.
(b) Certification of costs as required by § 232.610.
(c) Certification that fire safety equipment was installed as required by § 232.500(c).
§ 232.580 Application of payments.
(a) The security instrument shall provide that all monthly payments to be made by the borrower shall be added together and this aggregate amount shall be paid by the borrower upon each monthly payment date in a single payment. The lender shall apply the payment to the following items in the order set forth:
(1) Premium charges under the contract of insurance;
(2) Interest on the loan;
(3) Amortization of the principal of the loan;
(b) Any deficiency in the amount of any monthly payments required under paragraph (a) of this section shall constitute an event of default and the loan shall further provide for a grace period of 30 days within which time the default must be cured.
§ 232.585 Prepayment privilege and prepayment charge.
The security instrument shall contain a provision permitting prepayment of the loan in whole or in part upon any interest payment date after giving to the lender 30 days’ advance written notice and it may contain a provision, with the approval of the Commissioner, for a reasonable charge in the event of prepayment.
§ 232.586 Minimum principal loan amount.
A mortgagee may not require, as a condition of providing a loan secured by a mortgage insured under this subpart, that the principal amount of the mortgage exceed a minimum amount established by the mortgagee.
Property Requirements
§ 232.590 Eligibility of property.
(a) A loan to be eligible for insurance shall be on real estate held:
(1) In fee simple; or
(2) On the interest of the lessee under a lease for not less than ninety-nine years which is renewable; or
(3) Under a lease having a period of not less than “twenty-five” years to run from the date the loan is executed.
(b) The property constituting security for the loan transaction must be held by an eligible borrower as herein defined and must at the time the loan is insured be free and clear of all liens other than those specifically approved by the Commissioner.
§ 232.591 Smoke detectors.
After October 30, 1992, each occupied room must include at least one battery-operated or hard-wired smoke detector in proper working condition. If the room is occupied by hearing-impaired persons, the smoke detector must have an alarm system designed for hearing-impaired persons, unless the smoke alarm is connected to a central alarm system that is monitored on a 24-hour basis, or otherwise meets industry standards.
Title
§ 232.595 Eligibility of title.
In order for the property which is to be the security for a loan to be insured under this subpart to be eligible for insurance, the Commissioner shall determine that the title to the property is vested in the borrower as of the date the security instrument is filed for record. The title evidence will be examined by the Commissioner and the endorsement of the credit instrument for insurance shall be evidence of its acceptability.
§ 232.600 Title evidence.
The lender, without expense to the Commissioner, shall furnish to the Commissioner a policy of title insurance, or if the lender is unable to furnish a policy for reasons satisfactory to the Commissioner, the lender, without expense to the Commissioner, shall furnish an abstract of title. The following are the requirements covering the title insurance and abstract of title:
(a) The policy of title insurance shall be issued by a company, and in a form, satisfactory to the Commissioner. The policy shall name as the insureds the lender and the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, as their respective interests may appear. The policy shall provide that upon acquisition of title by the lender or the Secretary, the policy of title insurance will continue to provide the same coverage as the original policy, and will run to the lender or the Secretary, as the case may be.
(b) The abstract of title shall be satisfactory to the Commissioner, prepared by an abstract title company or an individual engaged in the business of preparing abstracts of title, accompanied by a legal opinion satisfactory to the Commissioner, as to the quality of such title, signed by an attorney at law experienced in the examination of titles.
Form of Contract
§ 232.605 Contract requirements.
The contract between the mortgagor and the general contractor may be in the form of a lump sum contract, a cost plus contract, or different or alternative forms of contract specified by the Commissioner.
Cost Certification Requirements
§ 232.610 Certification of cost requirements.
(a) Certificate and adjustment. No loan shall be insured unless a certification of actual cost is made by the contractor.
(b) Cost computation. The term actual cost of the improvements shall mean the cost to the borrower of the improvements, after deducting the amount of any kickbacks, rebates, or trade discount received in connection with the improvements, and including the amounts paid under any contract for the improvements, labor, materials, and for any other items of expense approved by the Commissioner.
(c) Statement of facts. Any agreement, undertaking, statement or certification required in connection with cost certification shall specifically state that it has been made, presented and delivered for the purpose of influencing an official action of the Commissioner and may be relied upon as a true statement of the facts contained therein.
(d) Incontestability. Upon the Commissioner’s approval of the cost certification, such certification shall be final and incontestable except for fraud or material misrepresentation on the part of the borrower.
(e) Records. The borrower shall keep and maintain adequate records of all costs of any construction improvements or other cost items not representing work under the general contract and shall require the builder to keep similar records and, upon request by the Commissioner, shall make available for examination such records, including any collateral agreements.
Eligible Borrowers
§ 232.615 Eligible borrowers.
(a) In order to be eligible as a borrower under this subpart the applicant shall be a profit or non-profit entity, which owns a nursing home or intermediate care facility for which the Secretary of Health and Human Services has determined that the installation of fire safety equipment in such facility is necessary to meet the applicable requirements of the Secretary of Health and Human Services for providers of services under Title XVIII and Title XIX of the Social Security Act and that upon completion of the installation of such equipment the nursing home or intermediate care facility will meet the applicable fire safety requirements of HHS. Until the termination of all obligations of the Commissioner under an insurance contract under this subpart and during such further period of time as the Commissioner shall be the owner, holder, or reinsurer of the loan, the borrower shall be regulated or restricted by the Commissioner as to methods of operation including requirements for maintenance of fire safety equipment.
(b) Also eligible as a borrower shall be a profit or nonprofit entity which owns an assisted living facility or board and care home for which HUD has determined that the installation of fire safety equipment is approvable under the definition contained in § 232.500(c).
§ 232.616 Disclosure and verification of Social Security and Employer Identification Numbers.
To be eligible for mortgage insurance under this subpart, the borrower must meet the requirements for the disclosure and verification of Social Security and Employer Identification Numbers, as provided by part 200, subpart U, of this chapter.
Special Requirements
§ 232.620 Determination of compliance with fire safety equipment requirements.
Prior to Endorsement, applicant must provide certification that the installed improvements will meet HHS, as well as all other Federal, state and local requirements for fire safety equipment, if applicable.
§ 232.625 Discrimination prohibited.
Any contract or subcontract executed for the installation of equipment, or construction of improvements to the project shall provide that there shall be no discrimination against any employee or applicant for employment because of sex, religion, race, color, creed or national origin.
§ 232.630 Assurance of completion.
If the property upon which the fire safety equipment is to be installed is subject to a mortgage insured or held by the Commissioner pursuant to subpart B of this part, the Commissioner may require such assurance of completion of the contract for installation as he may from time to time prescribe.
Subpart D – Contract Rights and Obligations
§ 232.800 Definitions.
All of the definitions contained in § 232.500 shall apply to this subpart. In addition, as used in this subpart, the following term shall have the meaning indicated:
(a) Contract of insurance means the agreement evidenced by the endorsement of the Commissioner upon the note given in connection with an insured loan and includes the provisions of this subpart and the applicable provisions of the Act.
(b) Maturity means the date on which the loan indebtedness would be extinguished if paid in accordance with periodic payments provided for in the loan.
Premiums
(a) First premium. The lender, upon the endorsement of the loan for insurance, shall pay to the Commissioner a first loan insurance premium equal to one percent of the original face amount of the note.
(b) Second premium. The lender, on the date of the first principal payment, shall pay a second premium equal to one percent of the average outstanding principal obligation of the loan for the year following such first principal payment date which shall be adjusted as of that date so that the aggregate of the first and second premiums shall equal the sum of one percent per annum of the average outstanding principal obligation of the loan for the period from the date of the insurance endorsement to one year following the date of the first principal payment.
(c) Annual insurance premium. Until the note is paid in full, or until the loan is assigned to the Commissioner, or until the contract of insurance is otherwise terminated with the consent of the Commissioner, the lender, on each anniversary of the date of the first principal payment shall pay an annual loan insurance premium equal to one percent of the average outstanding principal obligation of the loan for the year following the date on which such premium becomes payable.
(d) Method of premium payment. Premiums shall be payable in cash or in debentures of the General Insurance Fund at par plus accrued interest. All premiums are payable in advance and no refund can be made of any portion thereof except as provided in § 232.800 et seq.
(e) Calculation of premiums. The premiums payable on and after the date of the first principal payment shall be calculated in accordance with the amortization provisions without taking into account delinquent payments or prepayments.
§ 232.805a Mortgagee’s late charge.
Mortgage insurance premiums which are paid to the Commissioner more than 15 days after the billing date or due date, whichever is later, shall include a late charge of 4 percent of the amount of the payment due, except that no late charge shall be required with respect to any case for which HUD fails to render a proper billing to the mortgagee.
§ 232.815 Termination of insurance.
(a) Prepayment in full. The contract of insurance shall be terminated if the loan is paid in full prior to its maturity. Notice of the prepayment shall be given to the Commissioner, on a form prescribed by the Commissioner, within 30 days from the date of the prepayment. The insurance termination shall become effective as of the date of the prepayment, or 30 days prior to the Commissioner’s receipt of the prepayment notice, whichever is later.
(b) Voluntary termination. The contract of insurance shall be voluntarily terminated upon receipt by the Commissioner of a written request, on a form prescribed by the Commissioner, by the borrower and the lender for such termination, accompanied by a submission of the original credit instrument for cancellation of the insurance endorsement and the remittance of all sums to which the Commissioner is entitled. The termination shall become effective as of the date these requirements are met.
Upon termination of a loan insurance contract by a payment in full or by a voluntary termination, the Commissioner shall refund to the lender for the account of the borrower an amount equal to the pro rata portion of the current annual loan insurance premium theretofore paid which is applicable to the portion of the year subsequent to the effective date of the termination.
Rights and Duties of Lender Under the Contract of Insurance
§ 232.830 Definition of default.
(a) If the borrower fails to make any payments due under or provided to be paid by the terms of the note or security instrument, the note shall be considered in default for the purposes of this subpart.
(b) The failure to perform any other covenant under the note or security instrument shall be considered a default, provided the lender, because of such default, has exercised its rights under the note or security instrument and accelerated the debt.
(c) If such defaults as defined in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section continue for a period of 30 days, the lender shall be entitled to receive the benefits of insurance hereinafter provided.
§ 232.840 Date of default.
In computing loan insurance benefits, the date of default shall be considered as:
(a) The date of the lender’s acceleration of the debt because of the borrower’s uncorrected failure to perform a covenant or obligation under the note or security instrument; or
(b) The date of the first failure to make a monthly payment which subsequent payments by the borrower are insufficient to cover when applied to the overdue monthly payments in the order in which they become due.
§ 232.850 Notice of default.
(a) If the default is not cured within the 30 day grace period, as defined in § 232.830(c), the lender shall, within 30 days thereafter, notify the Commissioner in writing of such default.
(b) The lender shall give notice in writing to the Commissioner of the failure of the borrower to comply with any covenant or obligation under the security instrument or note regardless of the fact that the lender may not have elected to accelerate the debt.
§ 232.860 Commissioner’s right to require acceleration.
Upon receipt of notice of the failure of the borrower to comply with any covenant or obligation under the security instrument or note, or otherwise being apprised thereof, the Commissioner may require the lender to accelerate payment of the outstanding principal balance due.
§ 232.865 Election by lender.
Where a real estate mortgage, or other security instrument has been used to secure the payment of a loan made under the provisions of this subpart and subpart C of this part, the lender may either elect to assign the loan to the Commissioner in exchange for the payment of insurance benefits or may exercise its rights under the note and security instrument in lieu of making a claim for insurance benefits. If the lender elects the latter course, the Commissioner shall be so notified and the contract of insurance shall be deemed terminated upon the date of receipt of such notification.
§ 232.875 Maximum claim period.
Notice of intention to file claim on a form prescribed by the Commissioner shall be filed within 45 days after the lender becomes eligible for the benefits of the loan insurance, or within such later time as may be agreed upon by the Commissioner in writing.
§ 232.880 Items to be delivered on submitting claim.
Within 30 days after the filing of the notice of intention to file claim, or within such further period as may be agreed upon by the Commission in writing, the lender shall deliver to the Commissioner:
(a) The fiscal data pertaining to the loan transactions;
(b) Receipts covering all disbursements as required by the fiscal data form;
(c) The original note and any security instrument or instruments which shall be assigned to the Commissioner without recourse or warranty, except that the lender must warrant that no act or omission of the lender has impaired the validity and priority of such security instrument or instruments, that the security instrument or instruments are prior to all mechanics’ and material-men’s liens filed of record subsequent to the recording of such security instrument or instruments regardless of whether such liens attached prior to such recording date, and prior to all liens and encumbrances which may have attached or defects which may have arisen subsequent to the recording of such security instrument or instruments, except such liens or other matters as may be approved by the Commissioner, that the amount stated in the instrument of assignment is actually due and owing under the security instrument or instruments, that there are no offsets or counterclaims thereto, and that the lender has a good right to assign such note and security instrument or instruments;
(d) The assignment to the Commissioner of all rights and interests arising under the note and security instrument or instruments so in default and all claims of the lender against the borrower or others arising out of the loan transaction;
(e) All policies of title or other insurance or surety bonds, or other guarantees and any and all claims thereunder; including evidence satisfactory to the Commissioner that the original title coverage has been extended to include the assignment of the note and security instrument or instruments to the Commissioner;
(f) All records, ledger cards, documents, books, papers and accounts relating to the loan transaction;
(g) Any additional information or data which the Commissioner may require;
(h) The following cash items, held in connection with the loan insured under this subpart, shall either be retained by the lender or delivered to the Commissioner in accordance with instructions to be issued by the Commissioner at the time the insurance claim is filed.
(1) Any cash held by the lender or its agents or to which it is entitled including deposits made for the account of the borrower and which have not been applied in reduction of the principal of the loan indebtedness.
(2) All funds held by the lender for the account of the borrower received pursuant to any other agreement.
§ 232.885 Insurance benefits.
(a) Method of payment. Payment of an insurance claim shall be made in cash, in debentures, or in a combination of both, as determined by the Commissioner either at, or prior to, the time of payment.
(b) Amount of payment. Upon an acceptable assignment of the note and security instrument, the Commissioner shall pay the claim of the lender in an amount equal to the unpaid principal balance of the loan as of the date of default determined as follows:
(1) By adding the following items:
(i) Any accrued interest due as of the date of execution of the assignment of the loan to the Commissioner.
(ii) Any advances approved by the Commissioner made previously by the lender under the provisions of the note or security instrument or instruments.
(iii) Reimbursement for such reasonable collection costs, court costs, and attorney’s fees as may be approved by the Commissioner.
(iv) Any loan insurance premiums paid after default.
(v) If payment is made in cash, an amount equivalent to the debenture interest which would have been earned thereon, as of the date such cash payment is made, except when the lender fails to meet any one of the applicable requirements of §§ 232.850, 232.875, and 232.880, within the specified time and in a manner satisfactory to the Commissioner (or within such further time as the Commissioner may approve in writing), the interest allowance in such cash payment shall be computed only to the date on which the particular required action should have been taken or to which it was extended.
(2) By deducting from the total of the items computed under paragraph (b)(1) of this section the following items:
(i) Any amount received by the lender on account of the loan after the date of default.
(ii) Any net income received by the lender from the property covered by the note or security instrument and not applied to prior debts held by that lender.
(iii) The sum of the cash items retained by the lender pursuant to § 232.880(h)(i)(ii).
§ 232.890 Characteristics of debentures.
Debentures issued in settlement of insurance claims under this subpart shall have the same characteristics and the same requirements for registration and redemption as those issued pursuant to subpart B of this part except that debentures shall bear interest at the rate in effect as of the date the commitment was issued, or as of the date the loan was first endorsed for insurance, whichever rate is higher and shall mature 10 years from the date of issue which date shall be the date of execution of the assignment of the loan to the Commissioner.
§ 232.893 Cash adjustment.
Any difference of less than $50 between the amount of debentures to be issued to the lender and the total amount of the lender’s claim, as approved by the Commissioner, may be adjusted by the issuance of a check in payment thereof.
Assignments
§ 232.895 Assignment of insured loans.
(a) An insured loan may be transferred only to a transferee who is a lender approved by the Commissioner. Upon such transfer and the assumption by the transferee of all obligations under the contract of insurance the transferor shall be released from its obligations under the contract of insurance.
(b) The contract of insurance shall terminate with respect to loans described in paragraph (a) of this section upon the happening of either of the following events:
(1) The transfer or pledge of the insured loan to any person, firm, or corporation, public or private, other than an approved lender.
(2) The disposal by a lender of any partial interest in the insured loan to other than an approved lender.
Extension of Time
§ 232.897 Actions to be taken by lender.
With respect to any action required of the lender within a period of time prescribed by this subpart, the Commissioner may extend such period.
Subpart E – Insurance of Mortgages Covering Existing Projects
§ 232.901 Mortgages covering existing projects are eligible for insurance.
A mortgage executed in connection with the purchase or refinancing of an existing project without substantial rehabilitation may be insured under this subpart pursuant to section 223(f) of the Act. A mortgage insured pursuant to this subpart shall meet all other requirements of this part except as expressly modified by this subpart.
§ 232.902 Eligible project.
Existing projects (with such repairs and improvements as are determined by the Commissioner to be necessary) are eligible for insurance under this subpart. The project must not require substantial rehabilitation and three years must have elapsed from the date of completion of construction or substantial rehabilitation of the project, or from the beginning of occupancy, whichever is later, to the date of application for insurance. In addition, the project must have attained sustaining occupancy (occupancy that produces income sufficient to pay operating expenses, annual debt service and reserve fund for replacement requirements) as determined by the Commissioner, before endorsement of the project for insurance; alternatively, the borrower must provide an operating deficit fund at the time of endorsement for insurance, in an amount, and under an agreement, approved by the Commissioner.
§ 232.903 Maximum mortgage limitations.
Notwithstanding the maximum mortgage limitations set forth in 24 CFR 200.15, a mortgage within the limits set forth in this section shall be eligible for insurance under this subpart.
(a) Value limit. The mortgage shall involve a principal obligation of not in excess of eighty-five percent (85%) for a profit motivated borrower (ninety percent (90%) for a private nonprofit borrower) of the Commissioner’s estimate of the value of the project, including major movable equipment to be used in its operation and any repairs and improvements. The Commissioner’s estimate of value shall result from consideration of:
(1) Estimated market value of the Project by capitalization,
(2) Estimated market value of the Project by direct sales comparison, and
(3) Total estimated replacement cost of the Project.
In the event the mortgage is secured by a leasehold estate rather than a fee simple estate, the value of the property described in the mortgage shall be the value of the leasehold estate (as determined by the Commissioner) which shall in all cases be less than the value of the property in fee simple.
(b) Debt service limit. The insured mortgage shall involve a principal obligation not in excess of the amount that could be amortized by eighty-five percent (85%) for a profit motivated borrower (ninety percent (90%) for a private nonprofit borrower) of the net projected project income available for payment of debt service. Net projected Project income available for debt service shall be determined by reducing the Commissioner’s estimated gross income for the Project by a vacancy and collection loss factor and by the cost of all estimated operating expenses, including deposits to the reserve for replacements and taxes.
(c) Project to be refinanced – additional limit. (1) In addition to meeting the requirements of paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section, if the Project is to be refinanced by the insured mortgage, the maximum mortgage amount must not exceed the cost to refinance the existing indebtedness. For the purposes of this requirement:
(i) The Project shall not have changed ownership subsequent to the date of application, or
(ii) The Project shall have been sold to a purchaser who has an identity of interest with the seller (as defined by the Commissioner).
(2) The cost to refinance the existing indebtedness will consist of the following items, the eligibility and amounts of which must be determined by the Commissioner:
(i) The amount required to pay off the existing indebtedness;
(ii) The amount of the initial deposit for the reserve fund for replacements;
(iii) Reasonable and customary legal, organization, title, and recording expenses, including mortgagee fees under § 200.41;
(iv) The estimated repair costs, if any;
(v) Architect’s and engineer’s fees, municipal inspection fees, and any other required professional or inspection fees; and
(vi) The amount of any long-term debt service reserve account required by the Commissioner pursuant to § 232.11.
(d) Project to be acquired – additional limit. In addition to meeting the requirements of paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section, if the project is to be acquired by the borrower and the purchase price is to be financed with the insured mortgage, the maximum amount must not exceed 85 percent for a profit-motivated borrower and 90 percent for a private nonprofit borrower of the cost of acquisition as determined by the Commissioner. The cost of acquisition shall consist of the following items, to the extent that each item (except for paragraph (d)(1) of this section) is paid by the purchaser separately from the purchase price. The eligibility and amounts of these items must be determined in accordance with standards established by the Commissioner.
(1) Purchase price is indicated in the purchase agreement;
(2) An amount for the initial deposit to the reserve fund for replacements;
(3) Reasonable and customary legal, organizational, title, and recording expenses, including mortgagee fees under § 200.41;
(4) The estimated repair cost, if any;
(5) Architect’s and engineer’s fees, municipal inspection fees, and any other required professional or inspection fees; and
(6) The amount of any long-term debt service reserve account required by the Commissioner pursuant to § 232.11.
§ 232.904 Term of the mortgage.
Notwithstanding the provisions of § 232.27, a mortgage insured under this subpart must have a maturity satisfactory to the Commissioner which is not less than 10 years, nor more than the lesser of 35 years or 75 percent of the estimated remaining economic life of the physical improvements. The term of the mortgage will begin on the first day of the second month following the date of endorsement of the mortgage for insurance.
§ 232.905 Labor standards and prevailing wage requirements.
The provisions of §§ 232.70-232.74 of this part shall not apply to mortgages insured under commitments issued in accordance with this subpart.