Tips for the Fire Hardening and Defensible Space Advisory

We knew this form would be a doozy when we first learned it was coming and it has yet to disappoint. Below are some bullet points to help listing agents and sellers navigate the Fire Hardening & Defensible Space Advisory, Disclosure & Addendum.

FIRST:

Determine if the property is in a high or very high fire zone.

1. Check the properties NHD Report

2. Use the following Cal Fire link. https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/e659f03a6e8447af8663e42cf48f60fd

SECOND:

IS NOT or IS in a high or very high fire zone.

1. IS NOT in a high or very high fire zone. Check 2.B on the FHDS and provide the form as an advisory only.

2. IS in a high or very high fire zone. Complete sections 3.B and 4.B on the FHDS and provide the form as a disclosure.

THIRD:

How to complete section 3.B if applicable

1. Section 3.B is completed to best of sellers knowledge

FOURTH:

How to complete section 4.B

1. Agent or Seller Call local fire department or local building and safety department to determine if there is a Local Ordinance.

2. If NO local ordinance, then 4.B(1) or (2) applies

3. If THERE IS a local ordinance, then ask whoever is advising of the ordinance what the local ordinance requirements are and how to meet those. Once you have obtained this information, seller will then know whether to check 4.B(3) or (4)

4. If an inspection is required, schedule the inspection with the local fire department or Cal Fire (there is sometimes a fee associated).

WHEN TO TAKE THESE STEPS

Our recommendation is to do the above at time of listing. We have run into long waits for inspections and you do not want to hold up your escrow closing on time, so we encourage you to add this step to your listing coordinating procedures.

As always, reach out with any questions or for clarification on the above.