(a) Preapplication conference. The local HUD Office will determine whether participation in a preapplication conference is required as a condition to submission of an initial application for a firm commitment for insurance of an energy savings improvement loan on a project. An application for a firm commitment for insurance must be submitted by both the project sponsor and an approved lender. Applications shall be submitted to the local HUD Office on HUD-approved forms. No application will be considered unless accompanied by all exhibits required by the form and program handbooks.

(b) Application for firm commitment. An application for a firm commitment shall be accompanied by the payment of an application fee of $5 per thousand dollars of the requested loan amount to be insured.

(c) Cross-reference. The provisions of paragraphs (e) (Inspection fee), (f)(1) (Fee on increases), (g) (Reopening of expired commitments), (i) (Refund of fees), and (j) (Fees not required) of § 200.40 of this chapter apply to applications submitted under subpart E of this part.