Selling a home in California’s wildfire-prone areas now involves more than standard disclosures and inspections. AB 38 has made wildfire compliance a growing factor in escrow, especially as buyers, agents, and lenders look for proof that a property meets basic safety standards. This guide explains how AB 38 affects home sales, what inspectors commonly check, why homes fail, and which pre-listing improvements can help sellers avoid delays, reduce repair negotiations, and move through closing with greater confidence in 2026.

