SB 721 BALCONY INSPECTIONS & REPAIR

WHAT IS SB 721 BALCONY INSPECTION LAW?

This is a State law that requires an inspection of exterior elevated wood elements, such as decks and balconies, for multifamily properties with 3+units or more. This came about after the 2015 balcony failure in Berkeley which killed 13 people. Failure was later determined to be due to poor waterproofing which caused dry rot and failure of wood members. SB 326 was recently passed in August and is a similar bill for condominiums.

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WHEN?

Inspections must be performed by licensed architect, engineer, contractor, or building inspector. First inspection must be completed by January 1, 2025, with further inspections every 6 years. Inspection is also required before close of escrow on any condo conversions.

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WHAT IS INSPECTED?

Required to inspect 15% of all elements, such as decks, balconies, catwalks, exterior stairs, and their connections to the building. Per our communication with the State Senate, inspection is typically invasive and requires removal of finishes (stucco, etc.) for inspection.

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WHAT IF?

If poor conditions are encountered, Owner is required to do corrective work within about 8 months. If inspector requires immediate repairs, Owner must address immediately. This is a State-mandated local program, so local cities are the ones to enforce it. This law grants AHJ the authority to give civil penalties and pursue building safety liens. The bill clearly states that Owners are responsible for this entire process. Inspectors are required to follow-up on repairs and report to local jurisdiction if they are not completed in a timely manner.

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IS IT A GUARANTEE?

No. The law only requires 15% of balconies to be inspected.

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HOW DOES IT AFFECT PROPERTIES?

The law requires inspection be completed before condominium

conversions, and copies of inspection reports must be turned over during any sale of property. Owners are required to retain reports for at least 2 cycles (12 years).

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CAN THIS BE COMBINES WITH A  PCA REPORT?

Not really. Inspectors are required to have special training, special equipment, and be licensed. Inspectors are required to be contracted by Owner, where as PCAs are usually contracted by lenders. Inspection is also time-consuming, so having PCA do both may delay PCA report.

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BALCONY INSPECTIONS

When was the last time you thought about the safety of your balcony? For many, it's an afterthought until something goes wrong. But balconies, like any other part of your property, require regular inspections to ensure they remain safe and structurally sound. In this article, we'll delve into the world of balcony inspections, why they're important, and what you need to know to keep your balcony safe for yourself and your loved ones.

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Common Issues Found During Balcony Inspections

Let's start by looking at some of the most common issues inspectors encounter when assessing balconies. From structural problems to safety hazards, there's a lot that can go wrong if balconies aren't properly maintained. Structural integrity problems are often at the top of the list, including cracks in concrete or wood, corrosion of metal supports, and deterioration of waterproofing materials.

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When to Conduct Balcony Inspections

The frequency of balcony inspections depends on various factors, including the age of the structure and local weather conditions. As a general rule of thumb, it's recommended to conduct inspections at least once a year, preferably before the start of the outdoor season. Additionally, it's essential to schedule an inspection after extreme weather events such as storms or heavy snowfall.

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Costs Associated with Balcony Inspections

The cost of a balcony inspection can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the balcony, its accessibility, and the location of the property. However, compared to the potential expenses associated with balcony repairs or liability claims resulting from accidents, the cost of an inspection is minimal. Think of it as an investment in your safety and the longevity of your property.

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Balcony inspections are a vital aspect of property maintenance that should not be overlooked. By conducting regular inspections, whether through DIY methods or by hiring professionals, you can ensure that your balcony remains safe for you, your family, and your guests. Not only do inspections help prevent accidents and injuries, but they also protect you from potential legal liabilities and costly repairs down the line. So, take the time to inspect your balcony regularly and address any issues promptly. Your safety and peace of mind are well worth the effort.

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