Quality of Construction Rating
For appraisals required to be completed using the UAD, the appraiser must assign one of the following standardized quality ratings in the table below when identifying the quality of construction for the subject property and comparable sales.
| Rating | Description |
|---|---|
| Q1 | Dwellings with this quality rating are usually unique structures that are individually designed by an architect for a specified user. Such residences typically are constructed from detailed architectural plans and specifications and feature an exceptionally high level of workmanship and exceptionally high-grade materials throughout the interior and exterior of the structure. The design features exceptionally high quality exterior refinements and ornamentation, and exceptionally high-quality interior refinements. The workmanship, materials, and finishes throughout the dwelling are of exceptionally high quality. |
| Q2 | Dwellings with this quality rating are often custom designed for construction on an individual property owner’s site. However, dwellings in this quality grade are also found in high-quality tract developments featuring residences constructed from individual plans or from highly modified or upgraded plans. The design features detailed, high-quality exterior ornamentation, high-quality interior refinements, and detail. The workmanship, materials, and finishes throughout the dwelling are generally of high or very high quality. |
| Q3 | Dwellings with this quality rating are residences of higher quality built from individual or readily available designer plans in above-standard residential tract developments or on an individual property owner’s site. The design includes significant exterior ornamentation and interiors that are well finished. The workmanship exceeds acceptable standards and many materials and finishes throughout the dwelling have been upgraded from “stock” standards. |
| Q4 | Dwellings with this quality rating meet or exceed the requirements of applicable building codes. Standard or modified standard building plans are utilized and the design includes adequate fenestration and some exterior ornamentation and interior refinements. Materials, workmanship, finish, and equipment are of stock or builder grade and may feature some upgrades. |
| Q5 | Dwellings with this quality rating feature economy of construction and basic functionality as main considerations. Such dwellings feature a plain design using readily available or basic floor plans featuring minimal fenestration and basic finishes with minimal exterior ornamentation and limited interior detail. These dwellings meet minimum building codes and are constructed with inexpensive, stock materials with limited refinements and upgrades. |
| Q6 | Dwellings with this quality rating are of basic quality and lower cost; some may not be suitable for year-round occupancy. Such dwellings are often built with simple plans or without plans, often utilizing the lowest quality building materials. Such dwellings are often built or expanded by persons who are professionally unskilled or possess only minimal construction skills. Electrical, plumbing, and other mechanical systems and equipment may be minimal or nonexistent. Older dwellings may feature one or more substandard or nonconforming additions to the original structure. |
Identifying Quality of Construction
The same approach used in identifying the condition of the property is also applicable to identifying the quality of construction. The selected rating must reflect a holistic view of the quality of construction. However, the Q6 Rating is an exception because it indicates that the property is impacted by one or more deficiencies that negatively affect the safety, soundness, or structural integrity of the property. As a result, if any portion of the dwelling is rated a Q6, the whole dwelling must be rated a Q6.
Properties with a quality of construction rating of Q6 are eligible for sale to Fannie Mae provided any items in relation to the quality of construction that impact the safety, soundness, or structural integrity of the property are repaired prior to the delivery of the loan. See Physical Deficiencies That Affect Safety, Soundness, or Structural Integrity of the Subject Property for requirements when completing appraisals on properties with safety, soundness, or structural integrity deficiencies.
For additional information, see B4-1.3-06, Property Condition and Quality of Construction of the Improvements.