Property Fire Assessment & Wildfire Risk Evaluation

No — formal AB 38 inspections required for real estate sales in High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones must be performed by CAL FIRE or your local fire authority. Visit fire.ca.gov/programs/communications/defensible-space-prc-4291/ to request an AB 38 inspection. After the inspection, if mitigation work is required to pass, we can connect you with vetted contractors to handle that work.

A CAL FIRE inspection is an official regulatory inspection performed by state or local fire officials, typically issuing official compliance documentation. A contractor walkthrough is an on-site evaluation by a licensed defensible space contractor identifying what work is needed and providing an estimate. Most homeowners need the contractor walkthrough first to address compliance gaps, then if needed, request the CAL FIRE inspection separately.

Many insurance carriers accept written documentation from licensed defensible space contractors, particularly when the documentation includes before-and-after photos and references compliance with PRC 4291 standards. Specific requirements vary by carrier. If your insurance carrier has specific documentation requirements, mention them when requesting an assessment so the contractor can provide appropriate documentation.

Most residential property walkthroughs take 30–60 minutes depending on lot size and complexity. Larger properties or those with extensive vegetation may take longer. The walkthrough typically includes property assessment, discussion of required work, and preparation of a detailed estimate.

Yes. Most vetted contractors provide a written estimate detailing the work needed, the property areas requiring attention, and approximate costs. For insurance-compliant evaluations or more comprehensive documentation, contractors can typically provide a more detailed written report — discuss your specific documentation needs when scheduling.

Yes. Contractor walkthroughs are typically provided free of charge as part of the estimate process — there's no obligation to proceed with the work. You're free to use the assessment for your own planning, compare estimates from multiple contractors, or decline the work entirely. Some contractors charge a flat fee for more comprehensive written assessments; this fee may or may not be applied toward subsequent work depending on the contractor.