The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) oversees a system of national banks and federal savings associations involved in Commercial Real Estate and Construction Lending, assuring that these institutions are safe, sound, competitive, and capable of providing for the banking needs of customers as best as possible.
The OCC issues a handbook, which according to the OCC Handbook itself,” The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency’s (OCC) Comptroller’s Handbook booklet, ‘Commercial Real Estate Lending,’ provides guidance for bank examiners and bankers on Commercial Real Estate (CRE) lending activities.”
It specifically cites risk, “The booklet addresses the risks inherent in CRE lending as well as risks unique to specific lending activities and property types. Also discussed are supervisory expectations and regulatory requirements for prudent risk management. “
The Comptroller’s Handbook was updated in August of 2013, and replaces the OCC’s Commercial Real Estate and Construction Lending” booklet from 1995.