SB721 Inspection Requirements: Your Guide to Keeping California Balconies Safe

Owning or managing an apartment building in California? Then you’ve probably heard about the SB721 inspection requirements, part of the California balcony inspection law.

This law, sparked by a tragic 2015 balcony collapse in Berkeley, is all about keeping tenants safe by ensuring balconies and decks are structurally sound.

But what exactly does it mean for you, and how do you stay compliant? In this guide, we’ll break down the balcony inspection law California rules, explain the process, and share tips to avoid fines.

Plus, we’ll show how Los Gatos Construction can help you navigate this process with ease. Let’s dive into making your property safe and stress-free!

What Are the SB721 Requirements?

The SB721 requirements, part of Senate Bill 721, mandate safety checks for “exterior elevated elements” (EEEs) like balconies, decks, stairways, and walkways in multifamily buildings with three or more units. Signed into law in 2018, SB721 aims to prevent accidents by catching issues like dry rot, water damage, or loose railings before they become dangerous. Here’s the core of what you need to know about this balcony inspection law:

Who It Affects: Owners of apartment buildings with 3+ units, excluding condos (unless converting to condos after Jan 1, 2019).

What’s Inspected: Wood-framed EEEs over 6 feet above ground, including balconies, decks, porches, stairs, walkways, and railings, plus their waterproofing systems.

Deadline: First inspections must be completed by January 1, 2026, with follow-ups every 6 years.

Who Inspects: Licensed architects, civil/structural engineers, contractors with A, B, or C-5 licenses (5+ years’ experience), or certified building inspectors. Inspectors can’t do repairs to avoid conflicts.

Sampling: At least 15% of each EEE type (e.g., 15% of balconies, 15% of stairs) must be inspected.

In California’s coastal cities like San Diego or humid inland areas, wood decay is a real risk, making these inspections critical. But what does the process look like?

Understanding the California Balcony Inspection Law

The California balcony inspection law, often called the “Balcony Bill,” was born from tragedy. In 2015, a Berkeley balcony collapse killed six students due to water-damaged wood framing. SB721 responded by requiring regular balcony inspections to catch issues early. The law focuses on wood-framed structures because they’re prone to rot, mold, or corrosion if waterproofing fails. Key points of the balcony inspection law California include:

• Inspection Scope: Inspectors check load-bearing components (joists, beams, posts), waterproofing (flashings, coatings), and railings for stability, rust, or decay.

• Testing Methods: Visual checks are standard, but pros may use moisture meters, borescopes, or infrared scans. If damage is suspected, they might remove stucco for a closer look.

• Reporting: A detailed report with photos and findings is due to owners within 45 days. If hazards are found, it’s sent to local authorities within 15 days.
• Repairs: Non-emergency fixes must start (permit applied) within 120 days and finish within 120 days of permit approval. Emergency repairs need immediate action.

Compliance isn’t optional—fines, liens, or even balcony closures await non-compliant owners. In busy markets like Los Angeles, staying ahead is key to avoiding penalties.

What Does an SB721 Balcony Inspection Involve?

A balcony inspection under SB721 is thorough, focusing on safety and structural health. Here’s what happens during the process:

Visual Assessment: The inspector examines 15% of each EEE type for cracks, rust, loose railings, or water stains. They check flashings and coatings for waterproofing issues.

• Invasive Testing (If Needed): If damage is suspected, they may use tools like borescopes or remove stucco to inspect hidden framing. This is critical for concealed areas, like soffits.

• Load Capacity Check: They verify the balcony can handle its designed weight—think a group of people during a party.

• Report Delivery: You get a report with photos, test results, and recommendations. If urgent risks are found, the inspector notifies local authorities fast.

• Follow-Up: For repairs, you’ll need a separate contractor. Re-inspections confirm fixes meet code.

Costs vary—$300-$500 per balcony for visual checks, up to $3,000 for invasive testing. For a complex with 20 balconies, expect $5,000-$20,000 total. In California’s diverse climates, from foggy San Francisco to sunny San Diego, regular checks keep tenants safe.