What Are SB721 and SB 326?
In response to deadly balcony collapses in California, lawmakers introduced SB 721 and SB 326 to protect residents and hold property owners accountable for building safety. Both laws focus on the inspection and maintenance of Exterior Elevated Elements (EEEs)—including balconies, decks, landings, stairways, and elevated walkways made of wood or similar materials.
Here’s the breakdown:
- SB 721: Applies to apartment buildings with three or more dwelling units.
→ Requires inspections every six years. - SB 326: Applies to condominium associations and HOAs.
→ Requires inspections every nine years, coordinated with the HOA’s reserve study.
The goal is clear: identify hazards before they become life-threatening. This is not a formality—it’s a legal requirement that could save lives.
Why E3 (EEE) Laws Matter
Structural failures can happen silently over time, especially in buildings exposed to rain, salt air, and changing temperatures. Dry rot, corrosion, and water intrusion are some of the most common (and invisible) culprits.
If You’re Not Compliant, You’re at Risk For:
- Legal penalties and local enforcement action
- Lawsuits from tenants or injured parties
- Hefty repair bills due to unchecked damage
- Loss or denial of insurance coverage
- Decreased property value or difficulty selling
Beyond legal consequences, failing to inspect puts human lives at risk. These laws are not red tape—they are essential.
When Are Balcony Inspections Due in California?
Thousands of properties across California are already past due for required balcony inspections — or about to be. California’s two key balcony inspection laws, SB 721 and SB 326, set strict deadlines to ensure building safety. It’s crucial to know which law applies to your property and when your inspection is due to stay compliant and keep residents safe.
- SB 721 (Apartment Buildings) – Applies to multifamily rental properties with 3 or more units. The first SB721 inspection must be completed by January 1, 2026 for buildings constructed before 2019. After this initial balcony inspection, re-inspections are required every 6 years to maintain ongoing safety compliance.
- SB 326 (Condos & HOAs) – Applies to condominium complexes and other common interest developments managed by HOAs. The first SB326 inspection was due by January 1, 2025. Subsequent balcony inspections under SB326 are required every 9 years thereafter to ensure continued structural integrity.
Tip: Don’t wait until the last minute. Even if your official deadline hasn’t arrived yet, schedule your balcony inspection early. This gives you ample time to budget for any repairs, plan around occupants, and avoid the rush as everyone scrambles to book inspectors close to the deadline. The closer we get to these dates, the harder it will be to find an available licensed inspector. Acting early means you’ll beat the backlog and ensure your property meets California’s balcony inspection requirements without last-minute stress.
As a leading balcony inspection in California, DrBalcony urges property owners to act now. Staying ahead of these deadlines not only keeps you compliant with SB721 and SB326, but also protects your tenants and investment. Schedule an inspection as soon as possible to avoid penalties and safeguard your building’s safety.
Elements to Inspect Include:
- Balconies, decks, and porches
- Exterior stairways, catwalks, and landings
- Elevated walkways and platforms
- Railings, guards, and supporting components
- Fasteners, framing, and waterproofing systems
What They Look For:
- Dry rot or fungal damage
- Rust or corrosion on metal supports
- Water intrusion and drainage failure
- Structural stability and weight-bearing integrity
- General wear and code compliance
📋 Inspectors must provide a written report, which may include repair recommendations or note urgent safety concerns.
How DrBalcony Makes It Easy
At DrBalcony, we simplify a complex process with end-to-end support tailored to California law.
What Sets Us Apart:
- Licensed structural engineers with deep experience in EEE inspections
- Digital inspection reports—clear, compliant, and accessible
- Repair coordination with vetted contractors if repairs are needed
- Deadline tracking so you never miss a compliance window
- Education and support to help property owners navigate the process
We’ve inspected hundreds of properties across California and are trusted by apartment owners, HOAs, and property managers who value clarity, efficiency, and professionalism.
Don’t Let the Deadline Sneak Up On You
Many owners don’t realize they’re already out of compliance. Others assume the inspection will be fast or optional—until a code violation shows up at their door.
Even if your inspection deadline is still months away, early evaluations give you:
- More repair options and contractor availability
- Better budgeting for long-term maintenance
- Less stress when the real deadline approaches
Get Compliant Today with DrBalcony
Safety and compliance don’t have to be complicated. DrBalcony is here to handle it all—from inspection to reporting to coordination. Our job is to protect your property, your residents, and your peace of mind. Have questions? Reach out to speak with a licensed expert today.
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