📋 Agent Visual Inspection Disclosure (AVID) – Key Agent Questions

🔹 1. Legal Purpose & Requirements

  1. What is the AVID, and when is it required?
    • A statutory form (under CA Civil Code §2079) used by agents for 1–4 unit residential properties to document visible defects.
  2. Who must complete the AVID?
    • Both listing and buyer’s agents must perform a visual inspection and disclose material facts.

🔍 2. Scope & Limitations

  1. What is and isn’t covered by the agent’s inspection?
    • Agents inspect only “reasonably and normally accessible” areas; they do not check roofs, attics, open cabinets, operate systems, or measure square footage.
  2. What are common red flags agents look for?
    • Damage to structure or finishes, visible mold, broken screens/windows, or pool/spa hazards.

✍️ 3. Documenting Findings

  1. How should findings be documented?
    • Only state factual observations (e.g., “scratch on floor” or “cracks in stucco”), without diagnosing causes.
  2. What liability issues arise if agents editorialize defects?
    • Downplaying issues (e.g. “normal cracks”) can lead to buyer claims if problems worsen later.

⏱️ 4. Timing & Integration

  1. When should the AVID be completed?
    • Ideally during early stages—listing or escrow—and before buyer’s final walkthrough.
  2. How does the AVID integrate with seller disclosures?
    • It supplements the TDS: seller provides known issues, agent adds visible defects not included in the seller’s disclosure.

🛠️ 5. Advising Clients

  1. Should agents suggest further inspection?
    • Yes—buyers should be encouraged to get professional inspections, even though AVID is not a substitute. car.org
  2. How do agents handle seller exemptions (e.g., trust or foreclosure)?
  • Even if TDS isn’t required, the agent must still conduct the visual inspection and complete AVID.

đź’ˇ Best-Practice Tips for Agents

  • Stick to facts—no interpretations or cause analysis.
  • Keep accurate records of date, inspector, and observations.
  • Encourage buyers to obtain professional home inspections to verify major systems.
  • Use the AVID even when TDS isn’t required—for consistency and protection.

 

Disclaimer:
The questions and answers provided are for general guidance only and may not cover all details or apply to every situation. If anything is unclear or you need further clarification, please visit car.org for official resources and the most up-to-date information from the California Association of REALTORS®.

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