We provide balcony inspections in accordance with California’s SB 326 and SB 721 regulations. Our assessments ensure that your building’s exterior components are safe and compliant with the law.

All multifamily buildings with three or more units must adhere to SB 721, while properties managed by a Homeowners Association (HOA) are subject to SB 326, also known as California’s Balcony Law. These regulations apply to all human-occupied buildings, regardless of construction date.

For detailed information on the Balcony Law, refer to the Davis-Stirling Act. You can find specifics on maintenance, repairs, and inspections for elevated wooden structures.

Balcony inspections are critical for ensuring public safety. This requirement was introduced in 2018 following a tragic accident where six people died in a Berkeley balcony collapse due to wood frame deterioration. Regular inspections could have prevented this tragedy.

Per SB 326 and SB 721, these inspections assess exterior elevated elements and their waterproofing systems to confirm they are in safe working condition and free from hazards.

Elevated exterior elements include balconies, decks, porches, stairways, railings, and other exterior structures that are elevated, such as walkways or entry structures supported by posts.

Waterproofing components are protective elements such as membranes, sealants, coatings, and flashings that prevent water damage to load-bearing structures of balconies, decks, and other elevated areas.

Load-bearing elements refer to structural components like balconies, stairways, or decks that support walking surfaces elevated at least six feet above ground level.

Under SB 721, inspections for multifamily properties must be performed by a licensed architect, structural or civil engineer, or by a certified building inspector. A general contractor with an A, B, or C-5 license can also conduct these inspections.

For HOA properties under SB 326, only a licensed structural engineer can complete the inspection.

The initial inspection deadline is January 1, 2025. After that, inspections are required every six years. Building owners must retain their inspection records for 12 years.

Upon completion of an inspection, you’ll receive details on the condition of your building’s elevated exterior components, including their expected future performance, any recommendations for repairs or replacements, and any further inspection needs.

Yes, a detailed report will be provided following the inspection. The initial report will highlight the findings, and the final report will confirm the completion of any necessary repairs. The inspector must sign or stamp the report and submit it to the building owner within 45 days of the inspection. In cases of urgent repair needs, the report must be delivered within 15 days.

The inspection report contains an initial summary of findings and a final verification once repairs are completed. It will be signed or stamped by the inspector and handed over to the building owner within 45 days. If urgent repairs are necessary, the report will be delivered within 15 days.

If the inspection identifies an immediate hazard, the building owner must take prompt action to prevent access to the affected area until emergency repairs are made.

For non-urgent repairs, the building owner must apply for a permit within 120 days of the inspection report and complete the repairs within 120 days of the permit’s approval. If repairs aren’t made within 180 days, a warning will be issued, followed by fines or a lien on the property if the work remains incomplete after 30 more days.