California SB721: Why Your Balcony Might Be a Bigger Deal Than You Think
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Back in 2015, a horrifying tragedy unfolded in Berkeley when a balcony gave way, killing six college students and injuring several others. The disaster wasn’t just shocking—it spotlighted a dangerous blind spot in how California buildings are maintained, especially those multi-unit homes with elevated structures. Out of that sorrowful event came Senate Bill 721, or SB721—a sweeping law aimed at making sure such a catastrophe never happens again.
As of January 1, 2019, SB721 officially took effect. And with it came a big shift in how property owners are expected to treat their buildings. It’s no longer enough to fix things when they break. The new rule is: inspect, maintain, and keep things safe before they fail. At the heart of this law are Exterior Elevated Elements (EEEs)—things like balconies, decks, staircases, and elevated walkways—particularly those made with wood or wood-like materials, which are notorious for hiding dry rot and other decay under a seemingly solid surface.
Does SB721 Apply to You? Probably—If You’re in LA and Own Rentals
If you’re a landlord in Los Angeles, there’s a good chance this law affects your property. But how can you tell for sure? It boils down to three main qualifiers:
- Property Size: The law applies to buildings with three or more dwelling units. Think apartment buildings or mixed-use spaces with residential units.
- What Counts as an EEE: Balconies, porches, or stairs that stick out from the building and rely heavily on wood qualify.
- Height: These features must be more than six feet off the ground. Ground-level patios don’t count.
Condo owners, you’re not off the hook—you’re just under a different rule: SB-326. Both laws were passed around the same time and aim for the same outcome, but each applies to a different type of ownership.
In LA, the state’s version of SB721 stands. So far, the city hasn’t layered on any extra requirements.
Deadline Alert: You Now Have Until 2026 to Get Inspected
Originally, SB721 required buildings to have their first inspection done by January 1, 2025. But thanks to Assembly Bill 2579, you now have until January 1, 2026. That extra year is helpful—but it’s not a reason to procrastinate. After the first inspection, you’re on a six-year cycle. The idea is to catch problems before they become disasters.
Contact DrBalcony for a professional inspection!
Ensure the safety of your balcony and living space with DrBalcony - We're a Tech Engineering firm that specializes in California SB326 & SB721 balcony inspections. Over 300+ completed projects in California.
Request A Free EstimateClick To CallWho Can Inspect Your Building? Not Just Anyone With a Toolbox
Inspections under SB721 are serious business, and the state doesn’t leave room for amateurs. Here’s who qualifies:
- Licensed architects
- Civil or structural engineers
- Certain licensed contractors (Class A, B, or C-5) with deep wood-frame construction experience
- Certified building inspectors
These folks are trained to spot hidden threats—not just cosmetic wear and tear.
What Does the Inspection Look Like? Spoiler: It’s More Than a Peek Over the Railing
A proper SB721 inspection is part detective work, part surgery. It typically starts with a visual check, looking for sagging, water stains, or other red flags. But in many cases, that’s just the beginning.
Inspectors are required to check at least 15% of each type of EEE, which often means cutting into parts of the structure—carefully, of course. Tools like borescopes, moisture sensors, and thermal cameras help them see inside walls and under decks without tearing the whole thing apart.
The Inspection Report: Think of It as Your Building’s Health Chart
Once the inspection is complete, the professional must hand over a detailed report. This isn’t a casual checklist—it’s an official document you’ll need to hang onto for 12 years (two full inspection cycles). It outlines:
- What was inspected
- What shape it’s in
- What, if anything, needs to be fixed—and how urgently
There are four basic outcomes: immediate hazard, repairs required, general maintenance, or all clear.
What If There’s a Problem? The Clock Starts Ticking
If something is flagged as an immediate danger, the city must be notified within 15 days. For less urgent repairs, you’ve got 120 days to pull a permit and another 120 to get the work done. Ignore these rules, and things can go south—fast.
Non-Compliance Isn’t Cheap—Or Smart
Blowing off SB721 can cost you big time. Local agencies can fine you between $100 and $500 every single day until you comply. That adds up. And if things escalate, they might slap a lien on your property or get your insurance company involved.
Worse still, if a tenant gets hurt because you skipped your inspection, you’re looking at serious legal exposure—and not just financially. The damage to your reputation could be permanent.
What Inspectors Are Finding Before It’s Too Late
While most owners probably assume their balconies are fine, inspections often reveal the opposite. In coastal areas like Santa Monica, rusted fasteners are common. Elsewhere, dry rot has been found hidden behind seemingly perfect wood panels. In one case, thermal imaging showed water damage under a deck that had no surface signs of trouble. Getting ahead of these problems not only protects lives—it can save you from surprise emergency repairs that wreck your budget.
Contact DrBalcony for a professional inspection!
Ensure the safety of your balcony and living space with DrBalcony - We're a Tech Engineering firm that specializes in California SB326 & SB721 balcony inspections. Over 300+ completed projects in California.
Request A Free EstimateClick To CallSB721 vs. SB326: Know the Difference
Confused between the two laws? Here’s a quick breakdown:
Feature | SB721 | SB326 |
Applies To | Rental apartments (3+ units) | Condos/HOAs |
Focus | Wood-based EEEs | EEEs + waterproofing in HOAs |
First Deadline | Jan 1, 2026 | Jan 1, 2026 |
Reinspection Timeline | Every 6 years | Every 9 years |
Who Can Inspect | Architect, engineer, licensed contractor | Architect or engineer only |
Responsible Party | Landlord | HOA Board |
Both laws exist for one reason: to make buildings safer.
Need Help? DrBalcony Has You Covered
If SB721 feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. That’s where companies like DrBalcony come in. With a crew of seasoned structural engineers and inspectors, they handle:
- Full inspections (non-destructive and invasive as needed)
- Clear reports that check all the legal boxes
- Step-by-step guidance through the entire compliance process
- Smart fixes that catch issues early and save you money later
At the end of the day, this law isn’t just red tape—it’s about saving lives and protecting what you’ve built. Don’t wait for a crisis to act. Get ahead of the curve.
FAQ Section: Top Questions & Answers
My property is well-maintained. Do I really need SB-326/SB-721 inspections?
YES! Even with excellent maintenance, hidden issues can develop due to construction errors, material flaws, or severe weather exposure. Inspections are about ensuring those don’t turn into major problems.
Our balconies were inspected a few years ago – isn't that enough?
Unfortunately, no. California laws mandate inspections on a set schedule, often every 6 years. Deterioration can happen quickly, making regular assessments essential.
Can I use my regular handyman for the balcony inspection?
It’s not recommended. Unless they hold specific licenses (architect, structural engineer, etc.) their inspection won’t be considered valid for SB-326/SB-721 compliance.
What if the inspection uncovers major issues?
First, don’t panic! Early detection often means less extensive (and expensive) repairs are needed. Work with your inspector to prioritize fixes, and explore if they offer repair services for a streamlined solution.
I'm worried about the cost of inspections. Are there any resources to help?
Start by getting detailed quotes from multiple companies. Factor in that proactive inspections help you avoid even bigger costs down the line due to neglected problems. Some property management associations offer guidance on budgeting for balcony compliance.
