As a property manager or owner in California, it is crucial to stay informed about laws and regulations that impact your buildings and tenants. Senate Bill SB 721, also known as the "Balcony Law" requires periodic inspections of exterior elevated elements like balconies, decks, and elevated walkways in multi-family dwellings of 3 or more units.
At PCREI we specialize in the California SB 721 exterior elevated elements inspections. In this blog post, we will break down the key aspects of the new law and how our team can help you meet the requirements for 721 inspections.
What Prompted SB 721 Inspections?
California SB 721 was enacted in response to the tragic 2015 Berkeley balcony collapse that killed six people and injured seven others. Investigations revealed that the collapse was caused by concealed dry rot on a stucco wrapped cantilever wood balcony. The concealed conditions hid the deteriorated wood, resulting from inadequate waterproofing and drainage. The SB-721 law aims to prevent similar incidents by mandating regular inspections to ensure the structural integrity and safety of the wood components.
Who Is Affected by SB 721 Balcony Inspections?
The balcony law applies to buildings with three or more multi-family dwelling units. This includes apartment buildings across California with any exterior elevated elements six feet above ground constructed of wood or attached to a wood framed building. Condos are required to have a similar inspection, but they fall under the legislation California SB-326 and require that a licensed structural engineer or architect perform these inspections.
What Are the Deadlines and Penalties for 721 Inspections?
Building owners have until January 1, 2025, to complete their first exterior elevated element inspection. The building owner is required to keep a PASSING inspection report on hand and readily available to the local building jurisdiction. Subsequent SB 721 inspections must be performed every six years. Failure to comply with the law can result in civil penalties ranging from $100 to $500 per day until repairs are completed.
What Do SB 721 Balcony Inspections Involve?
721 balcony inspections are destructive in nature, meaning inspectors or property owners may need to remove portions of the exterior elevated element's waterproofing surface to evaluate the underlying framing and structural elements. The law requires a minimum 15% sampling of load-bearing components for a representative assessment during multifamily balcony inspections. But at PCREI we inspect all of the exterior elevated elements because in our 30+ years of building experience we know that wood products can have isolated defects, and we do not take chances when it comes to your tenants safety, and protecting the building owners assets.
SB 721 inspections must be performed by licensed architects, civil or structural engineers, experienced building contractors with specific license classifications, or licensed building inspectors. Beware of an inspector who also offers to perform the repairs, as this is illegal and a conflict of interest when it applies to SB-721 items. Having an unaffiliated 3rd party inspector review the work performed by any building contractor will ensure structural compliance.
Addressing Repairs and Maintaining Records for California Balcony Inspections
If the 721 inspection reveals the need for repairs, the building owner must take action within specified timeframes:
Emergency repairs (pose immediate safety hazards): Notify tenants and prevent access to the identified area(s). Complete any temporary repairs, pull a building permit and complete repairs within 180 days.
Non-emergency repairs: Apply for permits within 120 days of receiving the report. Complete repairs within 120 days of permit issuance.
SB 721 inspection reports must be maintained for at least two inspection cycles (12 years) and made available to local enforcement agencies upon request. When a building is sold, reports must be provided to the buyer.
How PCREI Can Help with Your 721 Inspections
At PCREI, our team of certified NACHI professional inspectors have the expertise to perform thorough and detailed inspections of your buildings decks, stairs, and elevated walkways. We use advanced techniques to minimize disruption while accurately assessing your exterior elevated elements' condition. Our comprehensive reports provide clear guidance on any necessary repairs, helping you prioritize and plan for maintenance.
Do not wait until the January 1, 2025 deadline! Contact PCRE Inspections today to schedule your California SB-721 inspection and gain peace of mind knowing your property is in compliance. Our knowledgeable staff is ready to answer your questions and guide you through the 721 inspection process.
Remember, investing in regular SB 721 inspections and maintenance not only keeps you compliant with the law but also protects your property value and the well-being of your residents. Trust PCRE Inspections to be your partner in SB 721 compliance.
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