For properties in these types of areas, there are FOUR state-wide code compliance items that are in play and should be addressed by the agent(s) and sellers.
- Working smoke detectors in each bedroom and bedroom hallways. If two levels, a working smoke detector on each level at least. Ten year battery type detectors or hard wired type detectors are acceptable.
- 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. Battery type, plug in type or hard wired combo type CO detectors are acceptable.
- 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. Showerheads and aerators must be low flow which all new ones are.
Since retrofitters may not be available for these areas, you as an agent can self-certify the above mentioned items are present and working. Or you can have a independent third party note them as present and working, ie general contractor, physical inspector, state certified appraiser, etc. Best practice is to put this into a short paragraph and have all parties sign to document for your files. This will more protect yourself, your seller and your broker from legal jeopardy in case of loss, injury or death after the close of escrow.
Call us at 310.800.4418 with any questions you may have, or to verify correct jurisdiction (city area) of any of your listings. Thanks for making RetrofitLA the number one retrofit company in Los Angeles.
