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ResourcesPublished February 19, 2026
List of Cities That Require a Pre-Sale Inspection Report in California
If you’re searching for a list of cities that require a pre-sale inspection report, you’re likely preparing to sell your home and want to avoid delays.
Many California cities require a pre-sale inspection report before a property can transfer ownership. These reports go by different names and can include inspections, retrofit requirements, fees, or affidavits.
If you’re working with experienced real estate agents in Whittier, CA, this is something you should review before putting your home on the market.
Below is a helpful list based on current published information.
What Is a Pre-Sale Inspection Report?
A pre-sale inspection report is a city-required report or inspection that must be completed before a property sale closes.
Depending on the city, it may include:
- Building record verification
- Smoke detector inspections
- Water heater strapping compliance
- Energy retrofit requirements
- Low-flow plumbing verification
- Property information reports
- Affidavits confirming compliance
Each city sets its own rules, fees, and timelines.
That’s why working with knowledgeable real estate agents in Whittier, CA matters. You don’t want to discover a requirement two days before closing.
List of Cities That Require a Pre-Sale Inspection Report
Here is a list of California cities currently known to require some form of pre-sale report or inspection:
| City | Report Name | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Azusa | Real Property Records Report | $118 – $237 |
| Bell | Presale Inspection Report | $200+ |
| Belvedere | Residential Building Record Report | $300 |
| Beverly Hills | Sale of Property Affidavit | No Fee |
| Burbank | Retrofit Upon Sale Certificate of Completion | No Fee |
| Carpinteria | Inspection-on-Sale Report Application | $280+ |
| Cathedral City | Smoke Detector Inspection | $52 |
| Chico | Energy Retrofit Inspection | Varies |
| Compton | Presale Inspection Report | $75 |
| Corte Madera | Application for Report of Residential Record | $130 |
| Cudahy | Presale Inspection Report | $255+ |
| Culver City | Report for Residential Building Records | $96 – $128 |
| Daly City | Residential Requirement Report Request | $150 |
| Del Rey Oaks | Residential Property Report | $250+ |
| El Monte | Property Inspection Report | $391.50+ |
| Gardena | Property Information Report | $435+ |
| Hawaiian Gardens | Presale Inspection Report | $174+ |
| Hermosa Beach | Report for Residential Building Records | $286.76 |
| Huntington Park | Residential Presale Inspection Program | $105+ |
| Inglewood | Presale Inspection Report | $263+ |
| Laguna Beach | Real Property Report | $400+ |
| Lawndale | Residential Property Report | $240 |
| Livermore | Report of Residential Building Records | $94 |
| Lomita | Residential Property Report | $255 |
Fees and requirements may change. Always confirm directly with the city building department.
Does Whittier Require a Pre-Sale Inspection Report?
As of now, the City of Whittier does not have a standard pre-sale inspection program like many surrounding cities.
However, Whittier may require:
- Retrofit compliance
- Open permit resolution
- Sewer or water compliance (in certain cases)
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detector compliance
This is why hiring experienced real estate agents in Whittier, CA is important. Even if the city does not require a formal pre-sale inspection report, buyers may still request inspections and repairs.
Why This Matters When Selling
If your city requires a report:
- You must order it early
- Some cities require corrections before closing
- Certain violations can delay escrow
- Fees can range from under $100 to over $400
If you’re selling in Whittier, El Monte, La Mirada, Norwalk, Pico Rivera, or surrounding areas, each city handles this differently.
You don’t want escrow delayed because of something simple like a water heater strap or unpermitted patio cover.
How a Local Agent Helps You Avoid Problems
Top real estate agents in Whittier, CA understand:
- Which cities require reports
- How long reports take
- When to order them
- Whether repairs are mandatory before closing
- How to negotiate repairs with buyers
This preparation protects your timeline and your leverage.
Selling in Whittier or Nearby Cities?
If you’re planning to sell and want clarity on your city’s requirements, start with a quick review before listing.
Whether you’re in:
- Whittier
- El Monte
- Hawaiian Gardens
- Huntington Park
- Inglewood
- Pico Rivera
- Norwalk
- La Mirada
Knowing whether your city requires a pre-sale inspection report can save you time, stress, and money.
If you’re interviewing real estate agents in Whittier, CA, ask them:
- Does my city require a pre-sale report?
- When should we order it?
- What violations typically show up?
- Can we negotiate repairs or credits instead?
If they can’t answer clearly, that’s a red flag.
Final Thoughts
Searching for a list of cities that require a pre-sale inspection report is smart. It shows you’re preparing early.
Every city operates differently. The key is handling these requirements before they become escrow problems.
If you’re selling in or around Whittier, working with experienced real estate agents in Whittier, CA helps you stay ahead of city requirements and keep your transaction smooth.
