Most Realtors with properties outside of the city of LA commonly ‘waive’ RPA governmental code compliance when selling, even though given the option, many sellers would opt for a ‘retrofit’ or ‘code compliance’ inspection upon sale to cover their liability after the close of their escrow. For properties in these types of areas, there are FOUR state-wide code compliance items that are in play and should be addressed by both agents. Some cities though may have additional requirements, check this list for the city in question.
- Working smoke detectors in each bedroom and bedroom hallways. If two levels, a working smoke detector on each level at least.
- A working CO detector on each level, central to the living area or near the bedrooms. Note: Small homes are more susceptible to carbon monoxide incidences than larger, spacious homes.
- Double strapped hot water heater tank. If water heater is tank-less, no strapping is required. Strapping is intended to prevent the water heater tank from tipping over and erupting any sheared gas line during an earthquake.
- Low flow toilets, meaning most toilets installed after mid-1990s. Most of the time, it will say ‘1.6GBF’ or similar somewhere near the base of the water tank or inside the tank. You can always send us a photo of the toilet if you are not sure.
Having a dis-interested third party retrofitter certify that these items are present and working is the best way for all agents to cover their clients liability in case of problems after the close of escrow. This applies especially to smoke and CO detectors, since non-working detectors may cause injury or death. Better to be safe than sorry.
Call us at 310.800.4418 with any questions you may have, or to verify correct jurisdiction (city area) of any of your listing.
