Selling in Saint Paul soon? Your first step is getting the Truth‑in‑Sale of Housing report in place so you can go live without delays. The process is straightforward if you know what to expect. In this guide, you will learn what TISH is, who needs it, the one required fix many sellers face, and a step‑by‑step checklist with timing that keeps your launch on track. Let’s dive in.
What TISH is in Saint Paul
TISH is the City of Saint Paul’s disclosure program that documents observable conditions of a home for buyers. It is not a full code enforcement inspection. The City requires you to complete the evaluation before marketing and to make the report available to buyers within three calendar days of listing. You can review official requirements on the City’s Truth‑in‑Sale of Housing page for details and forms.
- Learn more about the program on the City’s Truth‑in‑Sale of Housing page: Saint Paul TISH requirements.
Who needs a TISH report
If you are selling a single‑family home, duplex, townhome, or a condo unit with its own Parcel Identification Number in Saint Paul, you need a TISH evaluation. Properties with three or more units, commercial, and mixed‑use buildings do not require TISH. Sales to immediate family members, such as parents, children, grandparents, grandchildren, or siblings, are exempt.
When you need it and how long it lasts
Complete the evaluation before you begin marketing. The report must be available to any potential buyer within three calendar days of listing. A TISH report is valid for 365 consecutive days and only for one sale by the owner named on the report. In some situations, a current Certificate of Occupancy or Certificate of Code Compliance may substitute for a TISH and is also valid for one year.
Compliance and enforcement
Saint Paul City Code Chapter 189 governs TISH. Non‑compliance can be a misdemeanor under Section 189.19. You can review enforcement language on the City’s code enforcement page: Property Code Enforcement.
What evaluators look for
The evaluation documents observed conditions for buyer awareness. For single‑family homes, the City highlights one specific required safety item. Other conditions are commonly noted and disclosed even if they are not mandatory repairs.
The one required fix for many single‑family sellers
The City specifies that an operational hard‑wired smoke alarm is required in single‑family dwellings. If it is missing or not working, it will be marked as a hazard. You must hire a licensed electrical contractor, pull the appropriate permit, and have the work finalized by the City’s electrical inspector. For technical guidance, see the City’s page on residential fire alarm systems: Saint Paul Residential Fire Alarm Requirements and the State Fire Marshal’s overview of alarm requirements: Minnesota Smoke Alarm Requirements.
Other items often documented
Evaluators typically note life‑safety and building condition items such as smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, bedroom egress, stairs and handrails, electrical outlets and visible wiring, heating systems, water heater and plumbing fixtures, signs of dampness or pests, roof coverings, porches and steps, windows and doors, foundation, grading and drainage, and chimneys. A published checklist from a neighboring city is a helpful reference for the types of items commonly reviewed: Representative TISH evaluation checklist. Remember, TISH is disclosure‑focused. Buyers are encouraged by the City to obtain independent home inspections, and you should expect that many will do so: City guidance for home buyers.
Your seller checklist
Use this timeline to prepare, avoid rush work, and keep your list date firm.
1. Confirm you need TISH and gather documents
- Verify your property type. Single‑family, duplex, townhome, and condo units with their own PIN require TISH. Immediate family transfers are exempt.
- Collect any permits for recent work, past inspection reports, and any Certificate of Occupancy or Certificate of Code Compliance. These documents can streamline the evaluation and, in some cases, substitute for TISH if current.
2. Book a licensed TISH evaluator 2 to 4 weeks before listing
- City‑licensed evaluators are private contractors. The City publishes a list but does not recommend specific vendors, and fees vary. Because your report must be available within three calendar days of listing, schedule early to allow for any fixes.
3. Consider a pre‑listing home inspection
- A pre‑listing inspection can flag issues before the TISH visit and help you prioritize. The City advises buyers to get their own inspections, and the same principle helps you avoid surprises.
4. Tackle priority safety items first
- Smoke alarms: Confirm a hard‑wired, operational smoke alarm meets City requirements. If missing, plan for a licensed electrician, permit, and final inspection.
- Carbon monoxide alarms: Verify proper placement and operation per state and local rules.
- Egress and stairs: Ensure bedrooms have proper egress and that stairs have secure, graspable handrails. Keep exits clear.
- Electrical: Address obvious issues like exposed wiring or broken outlets. Use a licensed electrician.
- Plumbing and mechanicals: Fix visible leaks, dripping fixtures, or a non‑functional water heater.
- Exterior and roof: Repair loose railings, broken steps, or visible roof damage that could be called out.
- Moisture and pests: Clean up evidence of dampness or vermin and resolve the source. Check grading so water drains away from the foundation.
5. Pull permits and hire licensed pros when required
- If the TISH report identifies a hazard that requires a permit or technical work, use licensed contractors and follow City permitting. The hard‑wired smoke alarm correction is a common example that requires a permit and City sign‑off.
6. Review and share your TISH report with your listing
- Once complete, provide the report to all potential buyers. The City requires it to be available within three calendar days of listing. You can use Saint Paul’s online services to manage documents and look up records: Saint Paul Online Services.
Repair or disclose
Because TISH is a disclosure program, you do not have to repair every item noted, unless the City requires a correction such as the hard‑wired smoke alarm for single‑family homes. Many sellers choose to disclose non‑critical conditions and adjust pricing or terms. Others complete repairs to reduce buyer objections and speed closing. Keep in mind that buyers often perform full inspections and that some lenders or appraisers may require certain safety or system issues to be corrected. Review City rules here: Saint Paul TISH requirements.
Sample timeline
- Four weeks out: Confirm your property needs TISH, gather documents, and schedule your evaluator. Consider a pre‑listing inspection.
- Three weeks out: Start priority fixes, especially life‑safety items. Order parts and line up licensed contractors as needed.
- Two weeks out: Complete any permitted work. Schedule City inspections for items that require final approval.
- One week out: Receive your TISH report, verify corrections are documented, and prepare disclosures.
- Listing week: Upload the TISH report with your listing and have copies ready for buyer showings within three calendar days.
Ready to list with confidence and a clear plan for your Saint Paul TISH? Connect with Hays + Baker Real Estate for a high‑touch, presentation‑driven approach that keeps your timeline tight and your outcome elevated.
FAQs
Do Saint Paul home sellers always have to fix everything on a TISH report?
- No. TISH is primarily disclosure. For single‑family homes, the City calls out an operational hard‑wired smoke alarm as a required correction. Other items are typically negotiated, though some hazards may require permits and sign‑offs.
How long is a Saint Paul TISH report valid and for how many sales?
- The report is valid for 365 consecutive days and only for one sale by the owner named on the report.
Who performs TISH evaluations in Saint Paul and how are fees set?
- Private evaluators who are licensed by the City perform TISH evaluations. The City publishes a list, does not recommend specific providers, and fees are set by each evaluator.
Does a TISH report replace a buyer’s home inspection in Saint Paul?
- No. The City encourages buyers to hire an independent home inspector. TISH documents observable conditions and is not a full code inspection.
Are family sales exempt from TISH in Saint Paul?
- Yes. Sales to immediate family, such as parents, children, grandparents, grandchildren, or siblings, are exempt from TISH.
What are the penalties for skipping TISH or not following Saint Paul rules?
- Saint Paul City Code Chapter 189 provides for misdemeanor penalties for non‑compliance. Sellers and agents should follow all City procedures and deadlines.