NMFS uses a Confidential envelope system instead of traditional door hangers. This ensures privacy, maintains professionalism, and complies with federal and client standards. This lesson explains exactly how to prepare, place, and document these envelopes correctly.
1. What the “Confidential” Envelope Is
A Confidential envelope is:
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A plain white, long envelope
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With no windows
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Containing the printed notice from the work order or the Resources tab
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With the word “Confidential” written clearly on the outside
This protects borrower information from being visible to the public.
2. When a Confidential Envelope Is Required
Use the envelope when the work order states:
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“Leave notice at front door”
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“Leave door hanger”
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“Leave contact attempt notice”
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“Leave envelope”
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“Leave required documentation if no contact is made”
If the order is unclear, follow NMFS best practices:
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If contact was required and no one answered → Use the envelope.
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If contact was not required, only use an envelope if the order explicitly states to do so.
3. How to Prepare the Envelope
Steps:
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Print the required notice or form.
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Place it inside a plain white, windowless envelope.
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Write “Confidential” clearly on the front.
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Do NOT include:
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NMFS name
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Your name
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Client name
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Loan number
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Any identifying information
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Only the word “Confidential” should appear.
4. Where to Place the Envelope
Acceptable placements:
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Front door
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Screen door
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Tucked securely between door and frame
Rules:
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Keep it weather-secure (wind-safe)
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Do not wedge it somewhere that damages the door
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Ensure it is visible enough to be found easily
Not allowed:
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Mailbox (illegal)
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Car windshield
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Gate or fence
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Anywhere requiring trespassing or going behind a fence
Front door only unless otherwise specified by the work order.
5. How to Photograph the Envelope (Critical Step)
Your photo must show ALL of the following:
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The envelope itself
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The word “Confidential” clearly visible
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The exact location where you placed it
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Part of the door or doorway for context
Avoid:
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Close-up photos with no context
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Blurry or crooked photos
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Photos that fail to show where the envelope was placed
Correct documentation prevents rejections.
6. Notes Required When Leaving an Envelope
Your notes must include:
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Time you placed the envelope
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Statement confirming “Confidential” envelope used
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Exact location placed (front door, screen door, etc.)
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Reason it was required (no contact, per work order, etc.)
Example:
“Placed Confidential envelope on front door at 2:14 PM after no response to contact attempt. Required per work order instructions.”
This confirms compliance.
7. What to Do If You Cannot Leave the Envelope
If the front door is:
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Blocked
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Unsafe
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Behind a dangerous dog
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Behind a locked gate
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Not safely accessible
Then:
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Take photos showing the barrier (dog, gate, hazard).
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Do NOT force access or approach dangerous situations.
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Do not leave the envelope in an alternate location (mailbox, fence, etc.).
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Note exactly why envelope could not be placed.
Example:
“Unable to place Confidential envelope due to aggressive dog at front entrance. Door not safely accessible. Photo documented.”
Safety first — always.
8. Why the Confidential Envelope Matters
The envelope system:
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Protects borrower privacy
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Complies with mortgage industry standards
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Prevents exposing sensitive information
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Avoids homeowner complaints
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Maintains NMFS professionalism
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Reduces client liability
This is a required NMFS-specific practice and must be followed exactly.
Summary
Proper use of the Confidential envelope requires:
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Plain white envelope only
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“Confidential” written clearly
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Notice printed inside
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Front door placement only
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Clear contextual photo
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Detailed notes
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Safety-first decision-making
When done correctly, this eliminates the majority of door-hanger-related rejections.