• Significant Defects are typically the result of eligibility guideline violations, material misrepresentations or fraud, and indicate defects that would have resulted in the loan being unacceptable for MI coverage had the true and accurate information about the loan been known at the time of the MI application.
• They can also come from a lender’s failure to provide sufficient documentation to evaluate the credit quality of a loan.

Loans with Significant Defects are identified in the Preliminary Results report issued by Arch MI’s QC department.

• A prompt response to these findings, along with any relevant supporting documentation, is necessary to address all of the Significant Defect(s) noted.  
• Arch MI QC will review the response in good faith to determine if the issue can be cleared or the severity downgraded.
• If the Significant Defect cannot be resolved and the loan is deemed uninsurable, you will be notified of the next steps in the review process.

Arch MI QC conducts post-close reviews of a random sample of recently insured loans. In addition, Arch MI QC reviews all early payment default loans and other loans with reported delinquencies prior to the rescission relief period.

• As part of its loan file review, Arch MI obtains independent reverifications of critical loan, borrower and property information. When this information contradicts the information provided when the loan was closed, it could result in a Significant Defect.
• Arch MI may cite Significant Defects for misrepresentations made by borrowers under the terms of the Master Policy.
• Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac’s Day 1 Certainty of Coverage does not waive the lender’s responsibility for ensuring that a loan meets Arch MI’s underwriting guidelines.

• Loans with Significant Defects that cannot be resolved through the initial review process will be escalated for further review before a final determination is made on their eligibility for insurance.
• If coverage must be rescinded, Arch MI QC will notify you of the decision before the rescission letter is sent and coverage terminated.
• Rescission letters are sent to the lender and servicer, explaining why coverage has been rescinded and reserving Arch MI’s rights with respect to the loan.
• Arch MI will refund all premiums paid to the loan servicer of record when MI coverage is rescinded.
• Should you disagree with Arch MI’s final decision to terminate MI coverage or can obtain additional documentation to address the Significant Defect, you have the option to appeal the decision. Appeals are reviewed independently of QC decisions. Instructions for submitting an appeal are included in the rescission letter.