What is a natural hazard?

A natural hazard is a condition that is capable of causing severe property damage or loss of life.  It may include earthquakes, avalanches, tsunamis floods and volcanic eruptions.

What hazards must be disclosed in California?

• A "Special Flood Hazard Zone" identified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency
• An "Area of Potential Flooding" shown on a dam failure inundation map pursuant to Section 8589.5 of the Government Code

Wildfire Risks

• A "Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone" pursuant to section 51178 or 51179 of the Government Code
• A "Wildland Fire Area" pursuant to Section 4125 of the Public Resources Code

Geological Hazards

• An "Earthquake Fault Zone" pursuant to the Section of 2622 of the Public Resources Code (Alquist-Priolo Special Studies Zones)
• A "Seismic Hazard Zone" pursuant to the section 2696 of the Public Resources Code (Earthquake Induced Landslides or Liquefaction areas)

Who determines whether or not a property is in a hazard zone?

Counties are required to post notices at the offices of the county assessor, recorder, and planning agency that advise the public of the availability and location of Hazard Zone Maps that affect that county.

What is a geological report?

A report that determines whether a property is located in an earthquake fault zone, prone to flooding, or likely to suffer from slop stability problems.

Is a natural hazard disclosure report required anywhere in the U.S. outside of California?

No.

How much does a natural hazard disclosure report cost?

The cost of a report typically ranges from $75 to $150.

Who pays for the required hazard report?

The seller pays for this report.