What are Truth in Sale of Housing (TISH) inspections? Why are they required? What cities require them? Who is required to do them? If you don’t know the answers to these questions, the following will help you to navigate the TISH world.

The Truth-in-Sale of Housing inspections provide accurate information on the condition of properties for sale and to help keep up the quality of housing available in certain cities. Truth in Sale of Housing or “Point of Sale” reports are valid for 1 to 2 years for each property, the length depends on each city. This inspection and a TISH certificate must be done before or within 3 days of listing a property for sale. Properties that need TISH inspections include the following:

Types of Residences:                             

Single family homes

Duplexes

Townhouses

First time condo conversions

Types of Sales 

Sale by owner or real estate agent

Real estate agent assisted sale

Contract for deed

Other title transfers

TISH evaluations and reports cover certain items and identifies required repairs. A copy of the evaluation report and the list of repair items must be displayed on the property so potential buyers can view it. Generally repairs must be made before a house is sold. Fees charged for this inspection vary by each city.

Metro area cities that require inspections are listed below. Contact each city to find out the specific requirements for that city. If your city is not listed, then a TISH evaluation is not required (as of today, May 12, 2014).

City – Website

Bloomington – Bloomington Time of Sale Inspection Program

Crystal – Crystal Housing Maintenance Compliance Inspection

Golden Valley – City of Golden Valley Point of Sale

Hopkins – City of Hopkins Truth in Housing

Maplewood – City of Maplewood Truth in Housing

Minneapolis – City of Minneapolis Truth in Housing

New Hope – City of New Hope Point of Sale

Osseo – City of Osseo Truth in Housing

Richfield – City of Richfield Point of Sale Inspection

Robbinsdale – City of Robbinsdale Point of Sale

St Louis Park – St Louis Park Point of Sale

St Paul – City of St Paul Truth in Housing

South St Paul – South St Paul Time of Sale Inspections