If you're selling a home in Minneapolis, the Truth in Sale of Housing (TISH) report isn't optional — it's a city-mandated pre-sale evaluation that every seller must complete before listing. This guide explains exactly what a TISH report is, who needs one, and how to interpret every evaluation code so you can list with confidence.
What does TISH stand for?
TISH stands for Truth in Sale of Housing. It is a Minneapolis ordinance (Chapter 248 of the Minneapolis Code of Ordinances) that requires a licensed evaluator to inspect every single-family or duplex property before it can be sold. The goal is to give buyers a transparent baseline of the property's safety, code compliance, and major systems before they make an offer.
Who is required to get a TISH report?
Almost every seller in Minneapolis. The ordinance applies to single-family homes, duplexes, and most small residential properties. There are limited exemptions — for example, transfers between family members, court-ordered sales, and new construction within the first year of occupancy. If you're unsure, your evaluator or real estate agent can confirm before you list.
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Analyze my TISH reportWhat does a TISH inspector look for?
Minneapolis-licensed TISH evaluators inspect items that affect health, safety, and habitability — not cosmetic finishes. Typical inspection categories include:
- Electrical service, panel, GFCI/AFCI protection, and exposed wiring
- Plumbing fixtures, water heater venting, and visible leaks
- Heating system age, condition, and combustion safety
- Roof, gutters, chimney, and exterior envelope
- Egress windows in bedrooms and basement sleeping rooms
- Smoke and CO alarm placement
- Stair handrails, guardrails, and trip hazards
- Foundation, grading, and water intrusion
Understanding evaluation codes: M, B, RRE, RRP, LIC, SC, C, NA
Every line on a Minneapolis TISH report is tagged with a code that tells you whether action is required. Here's the cheat sheet:
| Code | Meaning | Action required? |
|---|---|---|
| M | Meets minimum standards | None |
| B | Below minimum standards (informational) | Disclosed only |
| RRE | Required Repair — Existing condition | Fix within 90 days of closing |
| RRP | Required Repair — Permitted work needed | Permit + repair within 90 days |
| LIC | Licensed contractor required | Hire licensed pro for repair |
| SC | Safety Concern | Strongly recommended; not always mandatory |
| C | Comment / observation | Informational |
| NA | Not applicable | None |
What happens if your TISH has required repairs?
RRE, RRP, and LIC items are the ones that matter for closing. They must be completed — and any required permits closed out — within 90 days of the property changing hands. The seller and buyer can negotiate who actually pays: the seller can fix before closing, the buyer can take responsibility post-close with a signed acknowledgment, or the seller can offer a credit at closing.
How long is a TISH report valid?
A Minneapolis TISH report is valid for one year from the evaluation date. If the home doesn't sell within that window, you'll need to order a new evaluation before re-listing.
How much does a TISH inspection cost?
Most Minneapolis TISH evaluations run $200–$400, depending on property size and the evaluator. Duplexes typically cost more than single-family homes because both units are inspected.
How AI is changing TISH report analysis
TISH reports are dense — 20+ pages of codes, abbreviations, and inspector notes that most sellers never fully decode. AI tools like TopDollarReport read your TISH PDF, classify every required repair, estimate Twin Cities contractor costs, and produce a one-page seller compliance summary plus an investor one-pager. What used to take hours of agent prep now takes 90 seconds.
FAQ
Do I need a TISH report if I'm selling to a cash investor?
Yes. The ordinance applies to the sale itself, not the buyer's financing.
Can the buyer waive the TISH report?
No. The seller is responsible for completing it before listing.
What if I disagree with an inspector's finding?
You can request a re-evaluation or a second opinion from another licensed evaluator.