5 Steps to Prepare for a Balcony Inspection
Want your upcoming balcony inspection to go smoothly? Whether you’re a property manager, HOA board member, or landlord, preparation is key to ensuring the process is efficient, accurate, and minimally disruptive. Here are five essential steps to help you prepare and streamline the inspection process.
1. Notify Residents Early
Send out notices to residents or unit owners at least 24–48 hours in advance, following local notice requirements or your HOA’s communication policies. Clear communication helps avoid surprises, gains resident cooperation, and ensures access to all required areas.
2. Clear Access
Make sure balconies, decks, elevated walkways, and exterior staircases are free of personal items such as furniture, planters, decorations, and stored objects. Inspectors need unobstructed access to assess surfaces, connections, railings, and supports. If access is blocked, it could lead to incomplete inspections or follow-up visits.
3. Gather Maintenance Records
Provide past repair records, maintenance logs, warranty documents, or prior inspection reports to the inspection team. These records help inspectors understand historical issues, previously repaired areas, and known concerns, which can improve the quality of the assessment.
4. Provide Access to Concealed Areas
Some structural components, like under-deck framing or interior connections, require special access. Ensure that crawlspaces, under-deck hatches, or other concealed spaces are unlocked, safe, and accessible. Coordinate with maintenance staff or residents to guarantee entry on inspection day.
5. Confirm Use of Non-Destructive Tools
Ask your inspection team about the tools and methods they’ll use. Advanced tools like borescopes, moisture meters, and infrared scanners allow inspectors to check concealed areas without damaging finishes or materials. Confirming this in advance helps minimize disruption and prevent unnecessary invasive testing.
Bonus Tip: Plan for Repairs
If inspectors flag safety issues or urgent repairs, have a process ready to quickly coordinate contractors and secure permits. Being prepared to act on inspection findings reduces risk and ensures timely compliance.
Want a simple way to stay organized? Download DrBalcony’s free pre-inspection checklist to keep your preparation on track, or schedule your inspection with our expert team today and enjoy a smooth, professional experience from start to finish.
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