Can you skip the home inspection when getting an FHA loan?

An FHA loan requires an appraisal, but that appraisal is not a home inspection. The FHA appraisal reviews minimum property standards covering safety, security, and soundness, while a home inspector analyzes the property for damage, wear, and maintenance issues the appraiser does not look for. A separate home inspection is a distinct service, so the required appraisal does not substitute for one.

An FHA loan requires an appraisal, but that appraisal does not substitute for a home inspection. The appraiser estimates market value and checks the home only against HUD's minimum property standards for safety, soundness, and security, while a home inspection is a separate review of the property's overall condition.