Still, wish they’d focus more on real safety stuff and less on closet doors...
Right? The closet door thing cracks me up. Like, is a missing closet door really gonna trip me up more than, say, a broken step? I get that the checklist is supposed to help, but sometimes it feels like they’re just looking for reasons to nitpick. I do appreciate the lead paint checks though—my last place was built in the 50s and that was a legit concern. Guess it’s a trade-off: extra hassle now or big headaches later. Still, I’d rather spend money fixing something useful than making sure every cabinet closes perfectly...
I get where you’re coming from, but I’ve seen some of those “nitpicky” items actually matter in the long run, especially for folks with mobility issues or disabilities. Closet doors might seem trivial, but if someone’s using a wheelchair or walker, a missing or broken door can be a real hazard—either blocking access or creating sharp edges. Same goes for cabinets that don’t close right; they can catch on clothing or even cause minor injuries.
I agree, though, that broken steps or lead paint are way higher on the priority list. The checklist can feel over the top sometimes, but I think it’s trying to cover all the bases for different needs. I had a client once who was frustrated about having to fix a loose handrail, but after moving in, their elderly parent ended up relying on it every day. Sometimes it’s the little things that end up making a big difference, even if they seem like overkill at first glance.
I’ve had buyers roll their eyes at the “loose cabinet hinge” stuff, but I’ve also seen those same buyers grateful later when a family member with limited mobility moves in. It’s wild how a small repair can turn into a daily convenience or even a safety issue. The FHA checklist can feel nitpicky, but honestly, I’d rather deal with a few extra fixes upfront than have someone get hurt down the line. Sometimes you don’t realize what matters until you’re living with it every day.
Funny you mention that—I've had a couple of properties where I thought the FHA requirements were a bit much, but then a tenant or buyer would point out how a grab bar or lower threshold made a huge difference for their parent or spouse. Sometimes I wonder if we overlook the long-term value of these “little” fixes when we’re just focused on closing. Has anyone tried proactively making accessibility upgrades before listing, or do you just wait for the inspection report to tell you what’s needed?
I’ve actually started adding a few basic accessibility features before listing, especially in older homes. Grab bars, lever handles, and wider doorways aren’t huge investments, but they seem to get noticed during showings. I used to wait for the inspection report, but after one buyer’s mom teared up seeing a ramp, I realized it’s worth being proactive. Not every buyer cares, but the ones who do really appreciate it. Plus, it can set your property apart in a crowded market.
