On March 28th, 2020 the Federal Government US Department of Homeland Security CISA issued an updated statement, that states on page 13, that Essential Critical Infrastructure Workforce includes Residential and commercial real estate services.
Within hours, the California Association of Realtors (CAR) changed their recommendation from Real Estate agents are nonessential to Real Estate agents are essential.
On March 31, the California Association of Realtors (CAR) issued their guidelines for inspections.
While we normally love and encourage clients to attend the inspection, to comply with CAR guidelines as well as to comply with the City and Country of Los Angeles mandates for workplace safety under California Health and Safety Code sec 120095 and Los Angeles County code sec 11.02.080,
UPDATE: May 9th, 2020
1 – Sellers should NOT be on the property during the inspection
2 – Buyers may be present during the inspection, but must be limited to two adults. Children, elderly, and anyone who has been sick in the last two weeks and anyone who is considered high risk should NOT attend the inspection.
4 – The inspector shall be available by phone and/or video conference to go over the results of the inspection at the conclusion of the inspection if the buyer prefers to not attend.
5 – Clients shall sign the inspection agreement in advance. Clients shall pay by credit or debit card online.
Previous policy:
1 – Sellers may NOT be present during the inspection
2 – Buyers may NOT be present during the inspection at any time.
3 – Agents shall NOT enter the house at the same time as the inspector. If possible, leave a key in a combination lockbox rather than attend.
4 – The inspector shall be available by phone and/or video conference to go over the results of the inspection at the conclusion of the inspection.
5 – Clients shall sign the inspection agreement in advance. Clients shall pay by credit or debit card online.
Anyone violating the above shall cause the inspection to cease. No refunds in whole or part will be given for partial inspections.
Inspectors will wear gloves, masks and shoe covers during the inspection.
Other methods of personal safety will be taken on a case by case basis, and as supplies are available for purchase.
Inspectors are following the Covid-19 Protocols as established by the CDC and the Covid-19 training as provided by the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors.
And as a reminder, the California standard purchase agreement grants the buyer broad discretion to conduct various inspections and investigations. The seller should be apprised of their obligations under the purchase agreement so that they enter into such agreements with a clear understanding of the attendant risks.