January 1, 2025 – Initial SB 326 inspection due for HOAs/condos
California SB326 Balcony / EEE Inspections for HOAs & Condominiums
Mandatory visual inspections of Exterior Elevated Elements (balconies, decks, walkways, stairs, guardrails) for condo/HOA buildings with 3+ units. Get compliant, protect residents, and reduce liability.
5000+
Inspections Completed
100+
5-Star Reviews
Statewide
Licensed Engineers
What Is SB326 & Who Must Comply?
SB-326 (Civil Code §5551) requires HOAs/condo associations with 3+ units to perform regular visual inspections of Exterior Elevated Elements (EEEs) by a licensed structural engineer or architect.
Who Must Comply?
Condominium associations (community apartments, stock co-ops, townhouse condos where structures are owned in common) with EEEs 6+ ft above grade. Planned developments where owners own their individual structures are generally not covered.
Key Timing
Initial inspection was due January 1, 2025 (for existing buildings); reinspect at least every 9 years. Reports must be retained for two cycles (18 years).
SB326 Requirements Overview
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Building Type | Condominium/HOA projects with 3+ units |
| Elements Inspected | EEEs supported substantially by wood & waterproofing: balconies, decks, stairways, elevated walkways, railings (6+ ft) |
| Initial Deadline | January 1, 2025 |
| Frequency | At least every 9 years |
| Sampling | Random, statistically significant sample of EEEs; more inspection/testing if conditions warrant |
| Inspector | Licensed structural engineer or architect (visual inspection & report to board) |
Find Out If You Qualify for an Exemption
Not all properties require a full SB326 inspection. Take our 2-minute quiz to see if you’re exempt or need compliance documentation.
Transparent Pricing & What’s Included
Scope of Work (SB-326)
- ✓ Board consult to confirm law & scope
- ✓ Visual inspection of a representative sample of EEEs
- ✓ Moisture/targeted testing if indicated
- ✓ Photo documentation & deficiency mapping
- ✓ Compliance-ready report to the board (retain for 18 years)
- ✓ Free proposal within 24 hours
Why Choose DrBalcony®?
SB-326 experts using our proprietary BalconyScope™ process, advanced tech, and statewide team of licensed engineers.
Licensed Engineers
CA-licensed structural engineers & architects
Representative Sampling
Statistically significant visual inspections; targeted testing as needed
AI Project Tracking
Real-time updates via our portal/app
24-Hour Proposals
Clear pricing, no hidden fees
⚠️ MISSED THE DEADLINE? START NOW.
Many HOAs are still catching up on SB 326 compliance. Book your inspection and lock timelines before enforcement escalates.
What We Inspect (EEEs)
Our BalconyScope™ covers condition, attachment, waterproofing, and risk indicators—focusing on dry rot, water intrusion, corrosion, and distress.
Balconies & Decks
Load-bearing capacity, attachment, decay
Stairs & Walkways
Elevated corridors, landings & supports
Guardrails
Height, spacing, fasteners, corrosion
Waterproofing
Membranes, flashings, drainage paths
Framing & Connectors
Joists, ledgers, hardware & anchors
Condition Flags
Dry rot, water damage, cracking, rust
What HOA Boards Say
“Their board presentation made SB326 simple. Clear report, prioritized repairs, and a plan our community understood.”
Board President
Orange County Condo
“We were behind the deadline. DrBalcony scoped sampling correctly and got us compliant fast.”
Treasurer
San Diego HOA
“Report retention guidance (18 years) and budgeting support were huge for our long-term reserves.”
Community Manager
Los Angeles
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if our HOA missed the January 1, 2025 deadline? +
Local jurisdictions can assess fees and enforcement actions; insurers may scrutinize coverage if required inspections aren’t completed. We’ll help you prioritize scope, schedule, and board approvals to catch up quickly.
How often do SB-326 inspections occur? +
At least every 9 years. Depending on findings, targeted re-checks or repairs may be required sooner.
Who can perform the inspection? +
A California-licensed structural engineer or architect must conduct the visual inspection and issue the report to the board.
Do concrete/steel balconies require inspection? +
SB-326 focuses on EEEs supported substantially by wood and their waterproofing. Fully concrete/steel systems are typically not covered, but documentation may still be needed for records.
What does “representative sample” mean? +
The inspector selects a statistically significant random sample of EEEs so results reflect overall conditions; additional targeted openings/tests may be recommended based on what’s found.
Make SB-326 Easy for Your HOA Board
We’ll handle sampling, visuals, reporting, and board Q&A. Get a compliant plan and timeline you can approve.
