AB 38 Inspections Explained for San Diego Homeowners
If you’re buying or selling a home in certain parts of San Diego County, you’ve likely heard about California’s AB 38 requirements. While the law can seem confusing at first, understanding the basics can help homeowners navigate real estate transactions more smoothly.
What Is AB 38?
Assembly Bill 38 (AB 38) requires sellers of homes located within designated High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones to provide documentation regarding defensible space compliance and fire hardening features before the sale is completed.
The goal is simple: reduce wildfire risk and improve property resilience.
Does My Home Need an AB 38 Inspection?
Properties located in designated fire hazard zones may be subject to AB 38 requirements during a real estate transaction.
Many communities throughout San Diego County, including areas near Poway, Rancho Bernardo, Ramona, Alpine, and other wildland-urban interface locations, may fall within these designated zones.
What Does an AB 38 Inspection Evaluate?
An inspection typically reviews:
- Defensible space around structures
- Vegetation clearance requirements
- Fire-resistant building materials
- Exterior openings and vents
- Roof condition and fire-resistant features
- General wildfire risk factors
Why Fire Hardening Matters
Wildfires continue to impact communities throughout California. Fire hardening improvements can help reduce risk and may also improve a property’s insurability and marketability.
Examples include:
- Ember-resistant vents
- Class A roofing materials
- Noncombustible landscaping near structures
- Improved defensible space management
Common AB 38 Deficiencies
Some of the most common issues we identify include:
- Vegetation too close to structures
- Accumulated combustible debris
- Inadequate defensible space zones
- Unprotected attic or crawlspace vents
- Deferred maintenance on exterior components
Benefits Beyond Compliance
Even if you’re not actively selling your home, understanding your property’s wildfire vulnerabilities can help protect your investment and your family.
A fire hardening inspection provides valuable insight into areas where improvements can be made before they become a problem.
Schedule a Fire Hardening Inspection
The Real Estate Inspection Company provides fire hardening and AB 38-related inspections throughout San Diego County. Our team helps homeowners, buyers, and sellers understand their property’s wildfire risks and identify practical mitigation opportunities. Contact The Real Estate Inspection Company today to schedule your fire hardening inspection and take the next step toward protecting your home.
