In California, a new year means new rules and regulations for real estate. And 2026 is no exception, as an array of building codes and requirements take effect beginning January 1st. This post highlights some of the key changes coming up regarding electrification, construction project processes, and wildfire safety.
Green-building Requirements
California is continuing to take steps in the quest to create a more energy-efficient and sustainable future. New homes must now be all electric, or at least electric-first at a minimum. This means systems like heat pumps and water heaters must be electric as the state seeks to phase out natural gas hookups.
Additionally, new construction homes must either include solar energy systems or, at the very least, be solar-ready. Similarly, new multifamily homes built in California must now have charging stations for electric vehicles and single-family homes need to be EV-ready with the property wiring to support electric vehicle charging.
Claim and Contract Dispute Resolutions
There are new rules regarding how change orders, time-extension requests, and payments are handled in private construction projects. New home construction projects are complex and ever-evolving, so it’s easy for timelines and plans to change throughout the process.
Construction companies must now submit claims if they encounter delays or situations requiring additional work. Homeowners must respond to these claims in writing within 30 days.
Beginning in 2026, homeowners will have 60 days to pay undisputed payments. Contractors also have the ability to temporarily stop work if an undisputed payment has gone unpaid.
Wildfire Building Codes
In early 2025, wildfires devastated much of Southern California, especially Altadena and the Pacific Palisades. Now, California has created a unified system for residential wildfire safety.
Homes with defensible space are less susceptible to being engulfed in flames in the event of an encroaching wildfire. Starting in 2026, the 0 – 5 feet zone around new construction homes are required to be cleared of combustible materials. This includes items like fences, dead vegetation, and mulch. The goal is to reduce the risk of embers in this space lighting and catching the home on fire. Additionally, having a clear perimeter immediately surrounding the home makes it easier for firefighters to combat the blaze in the event a wildfire reaches the property.
Looking Ahead in 2026
These are just a few of the changes happening that will affect new construction homes in Los Angeles, California. At Creative Innovation Developers, we monitor these updates and keep our clients informed of any changes to rules and regulations that may affect their new construction home. Contact us today to work with us on your new dream home.
