What Is the Presale Certificate of Completion vs. Inspection in Pasadena—and Which Do You Need?
What is the Presale Certificate of Completion vs. the Presale Inspection in Pasadena—and which do you need?
Answer:
In Pasadena, sellers must obtain a Presale Certificate of Completion under the city’s Self-Certification Program. Unlike a traditional presale inspection, this process allows the seller to self-certify compliance with housing codes rather than having a city inspector conduct the review. May Kunka helps Pasadena sellers understand the difference and file the correct paperwork before closing.
What Is the Presale Certificate of Completion?
The Certificate of Completion is the document Pasadena requires before escrow can close on a one- or two-family home or condo. It confirms that the seller has reviewed and signed the Self-Certification form, which covers key safety and habitability standards.
Without this certificate, the City of Pasadena will not record the sale.
How Does It Differ from a Traditional Presale Inspection?
Old System (Inspection): Years ago, the city sent inspectors to every property. The sale could be delayed if issues were discovered.
Current System (Self-Certification): The seller reviews a checklist (smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, heating, water-conserving fixtures, handrails, etc.), signs it, and submits it to the city.
The city only sends inspectors if problems arise, or if the home fails to meet the checklist.
Why the Change?
The city shifted to self-certification to streamline sales and reduce inspection bottlenecks. It puts more responsibility on sellers but speeds up transactions when the property is already in good condition.
Which One Do You Need as a Seller?
You need the Presale Certificate of Completion—not a full inspection. Unless your property has unresolved issues, the city will not conduct a physical presale inspection.
Common Pitfalls Sellers Should Avoid
Waiting too long: The certificate must be filed before escrow closes.
Overlooking small items: Missing smoke detectors or outdated water fixtures can hold things up.
Failing to disclose issues: If you know about non-compliant conditions, they must be corrected or disclosed to buyers.
May Kunka helps sellers avoid these pitfalls by reviewing the checklist early in the process.
Pasadena Market Insight
Even experienced sellers sometimes confuse the old inspection program with today’s certificate requirement. Missing the certificate has caused last-minute delays in closings across neighborhoods like Linda Vista and Hastings Ranch.
How May Kunka Simplifies the Process
Provides sellers with the official city forms and deadlines
Recommends cost-effective fixes for compliance issues
Coordinates with escrow officers to confirm timely filing
Ensures a smooth, stress-free closing
Final Thoughts: Certificate vs. Inspection
If you’re selling in Pasadena, remember: you need the Presale Certificate of Completion. The traditional city inspection is no longer the standard process. By working with May Kunka, you can file accurately, avoid delays, and move toward a seamless sale.
Ready to Sell in Pasadena?
Contact May Kunka to receive the full presale checklist and expert guidance on completing Pasadena’s Self-Certification requirements.