Standard 203(k) Contingency Reserve Requirements

Contingency reserve refers to funds that are set aside to cover unforeseen project costs. The minimum and maximum contingency reserve is established as a percentage of the financeable repair and improvement costs.

For structures with an actual age of less than 30 years:

  Minimum Maximum
Required when evidence of termite damage 10% 20%
Discretionary No Minimum 20%

For structures with an actual age of 30 years or more:

  Minimum Maximum
Required 10% 20%
Required when utilities are not operable as referenced in the Work Write-Up 15% 20%

If the contingency reserve is established with the borrower's own funds, it must be noted under a separate category in the repair escrow account.

Last revised: January 28, 2016