VA Form 26-1852: Description of Materials for VA Loans

VA Form 26-1852: Description of Materials for VA Loans – VA Form 26-1852, titled Description of Materials, is a key document in the VA home loan guaranty program. It provides a standardized, detailed list of every material and piece of equipment that will be used in a home’s construction, alteration, or repair.

Lenders, VA fee appraisers, and builders rely on this form (or an equivalent detailed specification) to evaluate proposed construction projects, determine reasonable value, and confirm compliance with VA Minimum Property Requirements.

Last Updated: June 2026 | Form Revision: May 2024

What Is VA Form 26-1852?

VA Form 26-1852 is an official six-page form used to describe all building materials and equipment for VA-guaranteed loans involving new construction or significant property improvements.

It works together with architectural plans, plot plans, and other exhibits submitted with VA Form 26-1805 (Request for Determination of Reasonable Value). The form ensures everyone involved — the veteran, builder, lender, and VA — has the same clear understanding of exactly what will be built and with what materials.

Purpose of VA Form 26-1852 in VA Home Loans

The primary purpose of VA Form 26-1852 is to:

Give VA appraisers the specific material details needed to accurately value a property that is proposed or under construction.
Establish the official specifications that the builder must follow.
Support compliance inspections during and after construction.
Protect veterans by documenting exactly what they are paying for in a new or renovated home financed with a VA loan.

Without a clear description of materials, the appraisal process for proposed construction cases can be delayed or the loan may not be approved.

Who Needs to Complete VA Form 26-1852?

Builders and contractors — Primary responsibility for filling out the form accurately.
Veterans / purchasers — May be required to sign when they have a purchase contract with the builder.
Lenders — Coordinate submission of the completed form along with other construction exhibits.

The form is most commonly used in these situations:

New home construction financed with a VA construction-to-permanent loan
Properties currently under construction
Major alterations or repairs where detailed specifications are required for appraisal

When Is VA Form 26-1852 Required?

You will typically need VA Form 26-1852 (or an equivalent detailed materials list) when applying for a VA loan on:

Proposed construction (new home to be built)
A home that is already under construction
Properties requiring substantial repairs or alterations

Note: While VA Form 26-1852 is the official form, many lenders also accept HUD Form 92541 (Builder’s Certification of Plans, Specifications, and Site) or a builder’s own detailed specifications — as long as they contain the same level of information. Always confirm with your specific lender which format they prefer.

How to Complete VA Form 26-1852?

The form contains clear printed instructions. Follow these key rules:

Mark an “X” in the appropriate checkbox for every item and fill in the specific details requested (brand, grade, species, size, weight, etc.).
Describe all materials and equipment — even items shown on the drawings.
Do not use phrases like “or equal,” “or better,” or list alternates.
If space is insufficient, write “See misc.” and provide details in Item 27 (Miscellaneous) or on an attached sheet.
The use of paint containing more lead than permitted by law is strictly prohibited.
Work not specifically described will be assumed to meet only the minimum acceptable standard.

The form is organized into logical building categories. Here are the major sections you will complete:

Excavation (bearing soil)
Foundations (walls, footings, waterproofing, termite protection)
Chimneys and Fireplaces
Exterior Walls (framing, sheathing, siding, veneer)
Floor Framing, Subflooring, and Finish Flooring
Partition and Ceiling Framing
Roof Framing and Roofing (sheathing, underlayment, flashing)
Gutters and Downspouts
Lath, Plaster, and Drywall
Interior Decorating and Finishes
Windows, Doors, Entrances, and Trim
Cabinets, Stairs, and Special Floors
Plumbing (fixtures, water heater, drainage)
Heating and Cooling Systems
Electrical Wiring and Lighting Fixtures
Insulation and Vapor Barriers
Miscellaneous (hardware, porches, driveways, landscaping, etc.)

Pro Tip: Have your builder complete the form using the actual plans, bids, and material take-offs. Inconsistencies between the form, plans, and contract can cause appraisal or closing delays.

Download VA Form 26-1852 (Current May 2024 Version)

Always download the most recent version directly from official sources.

Direct PDF Download:
Download VA Form 26-1852 Description of Materials (PDF)

Official VA Form Page:
VA Form 26-1852 – Veterans Affairs

OMB Control Number: 2900-0788 | Respondent Burden: 30 minutes | Expiration: 5/31/2027

Tips for Veterans and Builders Using VA Form 26-1852

Start early — gather plans and material specifications before your lender requests the appraisal package.
Ensure the form matches the architectural plans exactly.
Keep a signed copy for your records (the form recommends retaining records for three years).
Work with a VA-experienced lender who understands construction loan requirements.
If your builder prefers to use their own format, ask the lender in advance whether it will be accepted in place of VA Form 26-1852.

Frequently Asked Questions About VA Form 26-1852

Can I submit my own materials list instead of the official form?
In many cases yes — especially for Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grants — provided the list contains the same level of detail. For standard VA purchase or construction loans, most lenders prefer or require VA Form 26-1852 or the HUD equivalent.

Who signs VA Form 26-1852?
The builder/contractor must sign. The veteran/purchaser also signs when there is a purchase agreement in place.

How long does it take to complete?
The estimated respondent burden is 30 minutes, but actual time depends on how detailed your plans and bids are.

Is VA Form 26-1852 used for Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grants?
It was previously required but is now optional for SAH projects. Builders may submit an equivalent detailed materials list.

Official Resources and Next Steps

VA Home Loans Overview
VA Loan Guaranty Service – Benefits.va.gov
Contact your VA-approved lender or Regional Loan Center for case-specific guidance on submission requirements and number of copies needed.

Important: This guide is for informational purposes only and is based on the current May 2024 version of VA Form 26-1852 and publicly available VA resources. Loan requirements can vary by lender and may change. Always verify the latest instructions with your lender and the official VA website before submitting any forms.

Ready to move forward with your VA construction project? Download the current form above and share it with your builder today.

For the most accurate and personalized guidance, speak directly with a VA-experienced loan officer who handles construction-to-permanent loans regularly.