2009 State Laws In Effect

No sooner than the kick-start of your New Year's resolutions has come the enforcement of the new 2009 laws signed by Governor Schwarzenegger. The public hype seems to be on the "no texting while driving" law that went into effect on January 1st, so hold off on sending that SMS to your T.C. while rushing off to a showing! But there are several other new laws that directly affect our industry.

Fire Prevention
This law focuses on improved fire prevention with regard to wildfire damage. Homeowners are required to clear brush from within 100 feet on the perimeter of their homes. A second law requires that California forests be more thoroughly managed, with an emphasis on controlling tree-killing pests and easier access for firefighting equipment.

Foreclosure Consultants
This law provides a registration and bonding process for foreclosure consultants. It also regulates agreements between foreclosure consultants and homeowners, setting standards and parameters.

Real Estate
The Department of Real Estate can now suspend or bar a person who violates real estate laws.

Mobile homes
All mobile homes and manufactured housing are now required, at the time of sale, to have smoke detectors in each room designed for sleeping. Additionally, all gas-fired water heaters must have seismic braces.

Now that you are up-to-date on the new industry-related laws for 2009, perhaps it is time to set some new resolutions! Let's make 2009 the year of the great comeback!