California Seller Disclosure Requirements — Complete 2026 Guide

California has some of the most comprehensive seller disclosure requirements in the United States. Understanding what you're legally required to disclose — and what happens if you don't — is essential before selling your home, whether through a traditional listing or a cash sale.

The Transfer Disclosure Statement (TDS)

The Transfer Disclosure Statement is the cornerstone of California seller disclosures. Required by Civil Code Section 1102, the TDS must be provided to buyers in virtually all residential real estate transactions. It requires sellers to disclose known defects and material facts about the property, including:

• Structural problems (foundation, roof, walls)
• Water damage, flooding, or drainage issues
• Electrical, plumbing, or HVAC defects
• Pest infestations or damage
• Neighborhood nuisances (noise, odors, traffic)
• Any additions or alterations made without permits
• Deaths on the property within the last 3 years
• Presence of mold

The Natural Hazard Disclosure (NHD)

California sellers must also provide a Natural Hazard Disclosure report, which identifies whether the property is in a Special Flood Hazard Area, a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, an Earthquake Fault Zone, a Seismic Hazard Zone, or other designated hazard areas. In Fresno and the Central Valley, the most relevant hazards are typically flood zones and, for foothill properties, fire hazard zones.

Additional Required Disclosures

Beyond the TDS and NHD, California sellers may be required to provide:

• Lead-based paint disclosure: Required for homes built before 1978
• Mello-Roos and special assessment disclosure: If the property is subject to special tax districts
• HOA documents: If the property is in a homeowners association
• Smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector compliance
• Water heater bracing compliance
• Window security bar disclosure

Selling As-Is and Disclosures

A common misconception is that selling a home "as-is" eliminates disclosure requirements. It does not. Even in an as-is sale, California sellers must disclose all known material defects. The "as-is" designation simply means the seller won't make repairs — it doesn't mean the seller can conceal known problems.

Cash Sales and Disclosures

When selling to a cash buyer like Alder Heritage Homes, the disclosure process is typically simpler and faster than a traditional sale. We're experienced buyers who understand property conditions and don't require repairs — but we still conduct due diligence and appreciate honest disclosures. We handle all disclosure paperwork as part of our standard process. Call (559) 281-8016 for a free consultation.