California Natural Hazard Disclosure Statement

California Civil Code § 1103 requires that when single-family residential real property is being transferred that the seller furnish the buyer a Natural Hazard Disclosure Statement, which informs the buyer of whether certain natural hazards affect the property. The statement is a standardized form and it covers the following:

• Area of Potential Flooding
• Earthquake Fault Zone
• Seismic Hazard Zones
• Special Flood Hazard Area
• State Responsibility Area (Fire Hazard Area)
• Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone

Additionally, if the seller is using a third-party company to provide the statement (this is typical), then the statement will also include disclosures on the following:

• Airport in Vicinity
• Farm or Ranch Proximity
• Mining Operations

Where Do I Get a Copy of the Disclosure Statement Form?

California Civil Code dictates the format of the statement form here. Note that most sellers use a third party NHD report company, who will provide a correctly formatted statement with all the required information filled in for the subject property (see below).

How Do I Get the Information to Complete This Disclosure Statement?

While the data is available by searching various public databases, nearly every seller in California uses a third party company to complete this disclosure for them. The third party companies will also include additional disclosures on Airport in Vicinity, Farm or Ranch Proximity, and Mining Operations, which is required on NHD reports by experts. 

The cost can range from $54-$99. The minimum required information should be in any of the reports. Google "compare NHD reports" to see the various companies that provide these reports.

Can This be Waived by the Buyer?

No. See here.