SB 721: Not Every Balcony in California Needs Inspection
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The safety of balconies and other exterior elevated elements (EEEs) in multi-family residential buildings has become a priority in California, thanks to SB721 inspection. This landmark legislation mandates regular inspections of balconies, stairways, decks, and other elevated components in certain properties to prevent structural failures and ensure public safety.
If you’re a property owner, manager, or contractor in California, understanding SB721 is essential. In this blog, we’ll delve into the details of this law, what inspections entail, who needs to comply, and the steps you can take to remain compliant.
SB 721: Multi-Family Dwellings
The Background of SB721
Senate Bill 721 (SB721) was introduced in response to the tragic 2015 Berkeley balcony collapse, which killed six people and injured seven. The incident revealed serious issues with wood rot and moisture intrusion in the balcony’s structure—defects that went unnoticed due to a lack of routine inspections.
To prevent similar tragedies, SB721 was signed into law in 2018, requiring mandatory inspections of exterior elevated elements in certain residential buildings. The goal is to proactively address structural issues before they result in accidents.
Key Objectives of SB721
- Ensure Structural Integrity: Identify and repair defects in balconies, decks, and other elevated elements.
- Enhance Public Safety: Protect tenants and visitors from potential hazards.
- Regulate Compliance: Hold property owners accountable for maintaining their buildings.
Who Does SB721 Apply To?
1. Properties Covered by SB721
SB721 applies to multi-family residential buildings with three or more units, including:
- Apartment buildings
- Mixed-use properties with residential components
- Residential care facilities
2. Exclusions
The following properties are exempt from SB721:
- Single-family homes and duplexes
- Common-interest developments managed by HOAs (these fall under SB326)
Understanding whether your property falls under SB721 is the first step toward compliance.
What Does SB721 Require?
SB721 inspection establishes strict guidelines for the inspection and maintenance of balconies and similar structures. Here’s an overview of its key requirements:
1. Regular Inspections
- Inspections must be conducted every six years.
- The first compliance deadline is January 1, 2025, meaning property owners must complete their initial inspection by this date.
2. Qualified Inspectors
Inspections must be performed by licensed professionals, such as:
- Structural engineers
- Architects
- Certified building inspectors
- Licensed contractors with experience in exterior elevated elements
3. Inspection Scope
The inspection focuses on Exterior Elevated Elements (EEEs) that:
- Extend beyond the building envelope
- Support live loads (e.g., balconies, decks, stairways, walkways)
- Are made from moisture-susceptible materials like wood
Inspectors will evaluate:
- Structural integrity
- Signs of water damage, wood rot, or corrosion
- Attachment points and fasteners
4. Reporting Requirements
After the inspection, a detailed report must be submitted to the property owner, outlining:
- The condition of all inspected elements
- Photos and descriptions of deficiencies
- Recommendations for repairs or further testing
What Should an SB721 Inspection Report Contain?
A well-documented SB721 inspection report is essential for compliance and repairs. Here’s what the report should include:
Key Components of an SB721 Report
Building Information
- Address and description of the property
- Total number of exterior elevated elements
Inspection Findings
- Detailed descriptions of each inspected element, including photographs
- Notes on structural integrity and identified deficiencies
Recommended Actions
- Suggested repairs or maintenance for damaged components
- Prioritization of urgent issues
Compliance Timeline
- Deadlines for completing recommended repairs
Inspector Credentials
- Name, license number, and signature of the inspector
How to Prepare for an SB721 Inspection
1. Review Building Records
Compile building plans and maintenance records to share with the inspector.
2. Notify Tenants
Inform tenants about the inspection schedule and ensure access to balconies and decks.
3. Hire Qualified Inspectors
Choose licensed professionals with experience in balcony inspections. Verify their credentials and ask for references.
4. Address Minor Repairs Beforehand
Fix visible issues like loose railings or blocked drainage to simplify the inspection process.
SB721 Compliance Checklist
Here’s a quick checklist to ensure your property meets SB721 requirements:
| Task | Status |
|---|---|
| Determine if your property is covered by SB721. | ✅ / ❌ |
| Schedule an inspection with a licensed professional. | ✅ / ❌ |
| Notify tenants about the inspection date. | ✅ / ❌ |
| Gather building plans and maintenance records. | ✅ / ❌ |
| Review and address inspection findings promptly. | ✅ / ❌ |
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 2500+ completed projects in California.
Request A Free EstimateClick To CallWhat Are the Costs Associated with SB721 Inspections?
The cost of an SB721 inspection varies depending on the size and condition of the property.
Average Costs
- Small Multi-Family Buildings: $2,000 – $4,000
- Medium Complexes (10-50 units): $5,000 – $10,000
- Large Complexes: $10,000+
Additional costs may include:
- Repairs for identified deficiencies
- Permits for major structural work
What Happens If You Don’t Comply with SB721?
Non-compliance with SB721 can lead to:
Legal Penalties
Property owners who fail to conduct required inspections or repairs may face fines and legal action.Increased Repair Costs
Delaying inspections allows minor issues to escalate, resulting in more expensive repairs.Tenant Safety Risks
Neglected balconies pose significant safety hazards, putting tenants and visitors at risk.
Case Study: The Cost of Ignoring SB721
Scenario:
A 20-unit apartment building in Southern California delayed its SB721 inspection, assuming the balconies were in good condition. During an emergency inspection, severe wood rot and corroded fasteners were discovered in multiple balconies.
Outcome:
- Inspection Cost: $8,000
- Repair Cost: $75,000
- Penalties: $15,000 for non-compliance
The property owner could have avoided these expenses with timely inspections and maintenance.
Conclusion: Why SB721 Matters
SB721 is more than a legal requirement; it’s a vital measure to ensure the safety of balconies, decks, and other elevated structures in California. Regular inspections not only protect tenants but also help property owners avoid costly repairs and legal consequences.
Take action now. Schedule your SB721 inspection before the January 1, 2025, deadline to stay compliant and protect your investment.
For expert balcony inspections and repairs, contact DrBalcony today. Our licensed professionals specialize in SB721 compliance, ensuring your property remains safe, secure, and up to code.
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 2500+ completed projects in California.
Request A Free EstimateClick To CallFAQ 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.