This is an essential piece of equipment in any property. In a house, each bedroom must have one smoke detector and there must also be a smoke detector mounted in the area that leads to these rooms.

For properties that have multiple floors, such as a basement, having one on each floor is a must. Condos, apartments and duplexes should have hard-wired smoke detectors with a backup battery (if installed after May 11, 1999). Battery operated smoke detectors are only acceptable in single-family homes.

The glass of sliding-type doors should have impact hazard glazing or have the appropriate film installed.

Among the essentials that your property should have if it’s an apartment building are security locks and lighting. All doors and windows should have an efficient lock system. This should be matched by a good lighting system, both for exterior and interior public spaces and common areas. These include parking areas and garages, entrances to units, walkways, recreation areas and rooms, and so on.

Your property’s plumbing should be in compliance with the Water Conservation Ordinance of the City of L.A. From the pipes to the faucets, there should be no source of water leaks or other issues. If your property has any such issues, best to repair it as soon as possible.

Your property’s gas line should comply with the city’s ordinance that it be equipped with an earthquake gas shut off valve (EQSO). In the event of an earthquake with a magnitude of 5.1 or greater, the earthquake shut off valve automatically shuts off your gas line. Thus, the risk of a gas explosion is effectively cut off.

This is important for residential property sellers. This report (Form 9) should be delivered to the buyer before the sale, exchange, or escrow of the property. To get this report, an application should be sent to the Residential Property Records and Pending Special Assessment Liens.