What Is an SPQ (Seller Property Questionnaire) in California?

The Seller Property Questionnaire (SPQ) is a California real estate disclosure form that requires sellers to provide detailed information about the condition, history, repairs, improvements, and known issues affecting their property. It works alongside the Transfer Disclosure Statement (TDS) to give buyers a complete picture of the home.

📄 What the SPQ Covers

The SPQ asks sellers to disclose information about dozens of topics that may affect property value or safety. These include:

  • Repairs & Renovations: Past repairs, remodels, additions, or insurance claims.
  • Water Damage: Leaks, flooding, roof issues, or moisture problems.
  • Structural Concerns: Cracks, settling, or foundation-related issues.
  • Electrical & Plumbing: Previous issues, upgrades, or known defects.
  • Pest or Rodent Issues: Termites, rodents, insects, or past treatments.
  • Environmental Hazards: Mold, asbestos, radon, lead paint, or soil issues.
  • Legal or Permit Matters: Non-permitted work, boundary disputes, zoning issues.
  • Neighborhood Issues: Noise disturbances or nuisance conditions near the property.

The SPQ goes far deeper than the TDS, which is why most California real estate contracts require it.

📘 Why the SPQ Is Important

The SPQ protects both buyer and seller. It ensures buyers understand the home’s full history and helps sellers avoid legal disputes by clearly disclosing information up front.

California courts take disclosure liability seriously, and accurate SPQ answers reduce the risk of post-closing claims.

✔️ Who Must Complete the SPQ?

The SPQ is required for most California residential sales, including:

  • Single-family homes
  • Condos and townhomes
  • 1–4 unit properties
  • FSBO (For Sale By Owner) listings

🚫 Limited Exemptions

Some institutional sellers (banks, trustees, estates) may be exempt, but they must still disclose any known material facts.

📢 SPQ Requirements for FSBO Sellers

If you’re selling your home without a Realtor, the SPQ is still required if your buyer uses the standard California purchase agreement. Failing to complete it accurately can delay closing or lead to legal issues after the sale.

The SPQ works alongside other California disclosures such as:

  • Transfer Disclosure Statement (TDS)
  • Natural Hazard Disclosure (NHD)
  • Earthquake Hazard Disclosure
  • Water Heater Bracing Certification
  • Smoke/CO Detector Disclosure

For a full guide to disclosure rules, see:
Seller Disclosures in Real Estate Explained

📚 Learn more in our Real Estate Glossary.