Water conservation laws in San Francisco can have a big impact on real estate
2026
San Francisco has long been on the cutting edge in environmental and conservation issues. The board of supervisors passed its first conservation ordinance in 1982 and has continually upgraded residential requirements since then. These ordinances have always had an impact on real estate sales, but the latest ordinance really changes the face of the home sale, especially for older buildings.
The new requirements call for homeowners to upgrade their plumbing to low-flow standards before the home can be sold. Although these standards are typically in place with newer construction, many older homes will be forced to do plumbing upgrades, specifically changing toilets, faucets and shower heads.
Unlike past ordinances where compliance was never verified, passage of the new law requires all work to be done prior to recording the grant deed with the city.
This could have a huge effect on owners of multi-unit buildings, especially those buildings that haven’t been upgraded in many years. Not only will it hold up the sale, but it’ll cost the seller thousands of dollars in upgrades, not to mention the renovations that will need to take place as a result of the upgraded plumbing.
The Requirements
* Low-flow showerheads must be in place with a maximum flow of 2.5 gallons per minute or less.
* All sink faucets in a home must have an aerator with a flow rate of 2.2 gallons per minute.
* All toilets must have a maximum rated water consumption of 1.6 gallons per flush or less. If the toilet doesn’t meet this standard, it must be replaced.
* All plumbing leaks must be located and repaired.
The Process for Compliance
Sellers of residential real estate must obtain a valid inspection. With the inspection completed, sellers then obtain a certificate of compliance and provide a copy to the buyer. Finally, the certificate must be recorded with the San Francisco Recorders Office prior to or concurrent with the transfer of title.
Anyone thinking about selling their home or investment property in San Francisco may consider getting this work completed prior to going on the market. This could save a lot of time, money and hassle.
