Which Disclosures Are Mandatory When You Sell a Home in Pasadena, CA?

Which disclosures are mandatory when you sell a home in Pasadena, CA?

Answer:
California law requires sellers in Pasadena to complete specific disclosure forms covering property condition, hazards, and legal compliance. May Kunka ensures Pasadena sellers provide the right disclosures to protect themselves legally and keep transactions on track.

The Core Mandatory Disclosure Forms in California

1. Transfer Disclosure Statement (TDS)

  • The most comprehensive form.

  • Covers known property defects, systems (roof, plumbing, electrical), and past repairs.

2. Natural Hazard Disclosure (NHD) Statement

  • Identifies whether the property is in a:

    • Flood zone

    • Fire hazard severity zone

    • Earthquake fault zone

  • Pasadena hillside homes often trigger wildfire zone disclosures under AB-38.

3. Water-Conserving Plumbing Fixtures Compliance

  • California requires sellers to disclose whether homes have compliant low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads.

4. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (if built before 1978)

  • Federal law requires this disclosure on all pre-1978 homes.

  • Common in Pasadena’s historic neighborhoods like Bungalow Heaven and Madison Heights.

5. Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector Compliance

  • Sellers must confirm working devices are installed.

Additional Local & Situational Disclosures

  • Mello-Roos or Special Assessments – Disclose if applicable.

  • HOA Documents (for condos/townhomes) – Rules, budgets, and assessments must be provided.

  • Pest Control Reports – Not mandatory, but often expected.

  • Unpermitted Work – Sellers must disclose if rooms, ADUs, or garage conversions were built without permits.

  • Mills Act Contracts – Historic homeowners in Pasadena must disclose preservation obligations tied to tax benefits.

Why Full Disclosure Matters

  • Protects the seller from future liability.

  • Builds buyer trust and confidence.

  • Helps avoid escrow delays or lawsuits after closing.

Pasadena Market Insight

In 2025, Pasadena buyers are increasingly asking about:

  • Fire hazard zones in hillside neighborhoods

  • Unpermitted ADUs and garage conversions

  • Historic restrictions under preservation districts

May Kunka addresses these proactively to keep deals smooth.

How May Kunka Helps Sellers with Disclosures

  • Provides all state- and city-required forms

  • Reviews the property for possible unreported issues

  • Coordinates with escrow to ensure buyers receive timely disclosures

  • Advises sellers on best practices to avoid post-closing disputes

Final Thoughts: Transparency Protects You

In Pasadena, disclosure isn’t optional—it’s the law. By being upfront, sellers protect themselves and strengthen their negotiating position. With May Kunka’s guidance, you can disclose confidently while moving toward a successful sale.

Ready to Sell with Confidence?

Contact May Kunka for a personalized disclosure checklist tailored to your Pasadena home.