SB-721 & SB-326 INSPECTIONS:

Multi-family apartment bldgs. (3+ units) with elevated balconies, decks, stairways, walkways, and guardrails. Inspections required every 6 years. 

 What Structures Require SB-721 Inspections?

    •    Multi-family residential buildings with 3 or more units.

    •    Any building with exterior elevated elements (wood-framed balconies, decks, landings, stairways, etc.) over 6 feet above the ground.

    •    Structures that rely on wood or wood-based materials for structural support.

Condominiums and homeowners associations 

(3+ units) with elevated balconies, decks, stairways, walkways, and guardrails. 

Inspections required every 9 years. 

An EEE must meet the following criteria to be subject to inspection: 

1.   Extends beyond exterior walls
2.   Designed for human use
3.   Supported substantially by wood or wood-based materials.

SB-721 FAQ's: 

🔍 What’s Required?

•   Applies to apartment buildings with 3+ units featuring exterior elevated elements (EEEs) like balconies, decks, stairs, walkways, and railings that are wood‑supported and at least 6 feet above ground.
•   Inspections every 6 years.

⚠️ Why It Matters:

•   Non-compliance can lead to fines, insurance issues, and liability.
•   Reports are required for sales and city records.
•   Repairs (if needed) must be completed quickly—some within 120 days.

📝 The inspector will evaluate: 

•   Water damage
•   Rust, decay, or structural compromise
•   Load-bearing capacity
•   Proper ventilation/drainage

After the inspection:

•  A written report is issued to the building owner.
•  The report must be retained for at least 2 inspection cycles (12 years).

      If repairs are needed:

          •    Immediate threats to life/safety must be reported to the local building department within 15 days

    •    Repairs must begin within 120 days

    •    A final compliance report is required

SB-326 FAQ's: 

🔍 What’s Required?

•  Applies to multi‑unit residential buildings (condominiums/HOAs) with 3+ units featuring exterior elevated elements (EEEs) like balconies, decks, stairs, walkways, and railings that are wood‑supported and at least 6 feet above ground.
• Must be inspected by a licensed professional (contractor, engineer, or architect).
•   Inspections every 9 years.

⚠️ Why It Matters:

•   Non-compliance can lead to fines, insurance issues, and liability.
•    Prompted by the tragic 2015 Berkeley balcony collapse. 
•    Protects residents from structural failures and preserves long-term property value.

📝 The inspector will evaluate:

     •   Element identification

•    Current condition

     •    Remaining useful life

After the inspection:

•  A written report is issued to the building owner.
•  The report must be retained for at least 2 inspection cycles (18 years).

If repairs are needed:

•   Immediate threats to life/safety must be reported to the local building department within 15 days
•   Repairs must begin within 120 days
•   A final compliance report is required
•   HOA must restrict access until verified repairs are completed.