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California · Civil Code §1099California structural pest control (termite) report: when the seller delivers it and what goes with it

When certification or a structural pest control inspection report is a condition of the sale contract, or a condition of the buyer's financing, the seller, fee owner or its agent must deliver a copy of the report to the buyer as soon as practical before transfer of title (or before a real property sales contract is signed) (Cal. Civ. Code §1099(a)). Any notice of work completed by a structural pest control licensee in response to the report, or a certification, that the seller or its agent receives before transfer must also be given to the buyer as soon as practical before transfer (§1099(b)). Delivery can be in person or by mail to the buyer or anyone authorized to act for the buyer, and delivery to either spouse counts unless the contract says otherwise (§1099(c)). A transfer isn't invalidated solely because of a failure to comply, unless the failure would otherwise be grounds for rescission (§1099(d)).

The rules

  1. 1. When it applies (§1099(a))

    The contract or the lender requires the report or certification.

  2. 2. Delivery (§1099(a))

    A copy to the buyer as soon as practical before transfer of title.

  3. 3. Completed work (§1099(b))

    Any notice of work completed or certification, also before transfer.

  4. 4. Effect (§1099(d))

    Non-compliance alone doesn't invalidate the transfer.

What the TC can do

  • Check whether the contract or the loan requires a pest report or certification.
  • Track the inspection, any repair work and the notice of work completed as tasks.
  • Send the report and the completion notice to the buyer before closing and keep proof of delivery.

Questions about California pest reports

Is a termite report required to sell a house in California?

Section 1099 doesn't require one; it requires the seller to deliver a copy when the contract or the buyer's financing makes the report or certification a condition (Cal. Civ. Code §1099(a)).

When must a California seller deliver the pest report?

As soon as practical before transfer of title, along with any notice of work completed or certification received before the transfer (§1099(a)–(b)).

Related guides

Track the pest inspection, repairs and the report delivery as tasks in ClosingCode, with an owner and a due date.

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Source: California Civil Code §1099 (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov, read October 26, 2026).

General information, not legal advice. ClosingCode is software; it is not a law firm or brokerage. This guide is not a substitute for the advice or services of an attorney.