Buying Land: Due Diligence Checklist
Key questions about legal access, zoning, water, septic, utilities, terrain, and permits when evaluating California land.
These are general educational considerations. Your circumstances, the property, and local requirements determine which steps apply.
Confirm the parcel and legal access
Identify the assessor parcel number and obtain relevant title and recorded documents. A visible road or driveway does not, by itself, establish legal access. Review easements and maintenance obligations with qualified professionals.
Verify permitted uses
Ask the relevant planning department about zoning, minimum lot size, setbacks, overlays, subdivision rules, and intended improvements. A listing description or neighboring property is not proof that your proposed use is allowed.
Investigate water and wastewater
Determine whether a public connection, well, or other water source is available and what verification is required. For onsite wastewater, review existing permits and obtain appropriate site or system evaluations. Feasibility should not be assumed.
Evaluate utilities and site work
Request information on power, telecommunications, road improvements, grading, drainage, and utility extension costs. Distance to existing infrastructure does not necessarily predict the connection price.
Review physical and environmental constraints
Consider slope, soils, flood hazards, wildfire exposure, protected resources, and seasonal access. Specialist studies and agency reviews may be needed before development plans can be relied upon.
Build a realistic feasibility budget
Account for surveys, reports, permits, engineering, access work, utility connections, construction, financing, and contingency. Separate verified costs from preliminary estimates.
Set transaction safeguards
Use appropriate investigation periods and written contingencies for unresolved material issues. Consult legal, tax, engineering, and land-use specialists as needed.
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Prepared by Kirkson Realty Group for general information. This guide is not legal, tax, lending, engineering, or construction advice. Verify material facts with the relevant agencies and qualified professionals.