Does a California Seller Have to Make Repairs?
By JC Pacific Corp Published 2026-09-01 Last professionally reviewed: September 2026
A California seller is not automatically required to repair every condition found during the buyer's inspection. Repairs are generally negotiated unless the contract, law or another specific obligation requires action.
Disclosure Is Different From Repair
A seller may be required to disclose known material facts even when the seller is unwilling to repair them. California maintains extensive real-property disclosure requirements.
The California Department of Real Estate publishes a consumer disclosure guide available at dre.ca.gov/files/pdf/re6.pdf .
The Seller's Options
The seller may:
- Agree to all requests
- Agree to selected repairs
- Offer a credit
- Offer a price change
- Decline
- Propose another solution
Lender-Required Repairs
A lender or appraiser may identify conditions that must be addressed before the loan can close. That does not automatically force the seller to complete the repairs; the transaction may require negotiation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does "as is" eliminate disclosure requirements?
No. An as-is provision should not be assumed to erase applicable disclosure duties.
Can a buyer cancel if the seller refuses?
That depends on the contract, contingencies, deadlines and buyer compliance.
Must repairs be completed by licensed contractors?
That depends on the type of work, applicable licensing and permit rules and the parties' agreement.
Ask your agent to distinguish between a repair request, a disclosure requirement and a specific contractual or lender condition.
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JC Pacific Corp is an Irvine-based Southern California brokerage helping buyers navigate offers, escrow, and financing. Tell us what you are looking for and we will point you to current options across the region.
A note on legal advice: These guides provide general, educational information about California real estate practice. They are not legal advice and do not create an attorney-client relationship. Mortgage information is general education, not individualized lending, tax or legal guidance. For advice about your specific offer, contract, closing or financing, consult a qualified California real estate attorney and a qualified mortgage professional.