Seller Disclosure Laws in California
Transfer Disclosure Statement (TDS) — California Civil Code § 1102
California's TDS is widely considered the most extensive seller disclosure requirement in the country, covering not just physical condition but neighborhood conditions, legal claims, and history of the property.
Key Disclosures
- Structural, plumbing, electrical, heating/cooling systems, and included appliances
- Known environmental hazards and any chemicals on the property (e.g. prior marijuana or methamphetamine production)
- Whether anyone has died on the property within the last 3 years
- Known or anticipated zoning changes, legal claims against the property, and insurance claims within the last 5 years
- Major neighborhood disturbances (e.g. airport proximity, heavy traffic)
Exemptions
- Applies to residential properties of 1-4 units — larger or non-residential properties fall outside the TDS requirement
Recent Changes
Effective January 1, 2026, sellers must additionally disclose the presence of gas-powered appliances and whether tobacco or nicotine products have been used inside the home.
Facts on this page reflect research current as of 2026-07-05. Programs, rates, and laws change — confirm current figures with the relevant state agency before relying on them.