California Code, Health and Safety Code - HSC § 50093.6

“Property improvement loan” means an advance of money, evidenced by a note, to finance rehabilitation and general repairs and improvements to a residence consistent with the purposes of this division. A property improvement loan may, but need not be, secured by a deed of trust. However, a property improvement loan made outside a neighborhood preservation area shall be unsecured and shall not exceed fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000).