Why You Should Schedule Your CA SB 721 Inspection with Pacific Coast Real Estate Inspections

If you own a multifamily property in California with balconies, decks, exterior stairs, or walkways, Senate Bill 721 (SB 721) compliance is not optional—it's a legal requirement. Enacted to prevent the kinds of tragedies that have occurred across the state, this law mandates the periodic inspection of certain exterior elevated elements (EEEs) on residential buildings with three or more units.

Choosing the right inspection firm is essential—not just for compliance, but for safety, liability protection, and peace of mind. Here’s why Pacific Coast Real Estate Inspections (PCREI) should be your go-to for SB 721 inspections.

Specialists in SB 721 Compliance

At PCREI, we specialize in SB 721 inspections for multifamily buildings throughout California. Our licensed inspectors are trained specifically in elevated exterior element assessments and bring deep knowledge of building codes, material performance, and safety compliance requirements.

We don’t dabble in this work—we’ve made it a core part of our service offering, with a reputation for thoroughness and professionalism.

Clear, Actionable Reports That Move You Forward

Our inspection reports are designed to be clear, comprehensive, and easy to act on. We provide:

• A complete list of inspected exterior elements (balconies, stairs, landings, walkways)

• High-resolution photos and annotated findings

• Detailed descriptions of any issues or code violations

• Recommended next steps and suggested timelines for repairs

Stay Ahead of the Deadline—and Avoid Penalties

The first SB 721 inspection deadline for applicable properties is January 1, 2026. Properties that have not complied by that date may be subject to:

• Fines from local code enforcement agencies

• Notices of violation

• Potential lawsuits or insurance coverage issues

Scheduling your inspection with PCREI helps you avoid last-minute scrambles, city pressure, or legal risk. Our responsive team makes it easy to get on the calendar before any issues arise.

Real-World Collapses That Prove SB 721 Is Necessary

SB 721 was created in direct response to avoidable tragedies. These real incidents highlight what can happen when elevated elements go uninspected:

The Berkeley Balcony Collapse (2015)

On June 16, 2015, a fifth-floor balcony collapsed at the Library Gardens apartments in Berkeley during a student gathering, killing six and injuring seven others. The cause? Dry rot in the wooden support beams that had gone unnoticed.

This tragedy shocked the nation and prompted lawmakers to draft and pass SB 721 to protect against similar failures in the future.

Folsom Stairway Collapse (2015)

Only weeks after the Berkeley incident, an exterior stairway at a Folsom apartment complex collapsed, killing a 26-year-old man. Investigators again cited deterioration from wood rot, underscoring the vulnerability of neglected building elements.

These incidents make it clear: elevated structures don’t fail suddenly—they fail gradually, and quietly—until it’s too late. An SB 721 inspection is your opportunity to catch problems early and fix them safely.

Protect Your Property—and Your Liability

Beyond avoiding penalties, completing your inspection protects you and your residents. Failing to maintain safe exterior structures can result in:

• Injury or wrongful death lawsuits

• Emergency repairs that are more expensive than planned work

• Loss of insurance coverage

• Damage to your reputation and relationships with tenants or buyers

PCREI helps you mitigate these risks with proactive, professional inspections you can trust.

Combo 721/604 Inspections for San Francisco Properties

If your property is located in San Francisco, you may also be subject to Housing Code Section 604, which requires periodic inspections of certain wood-framed structural components. PCREI offers combo SB 721 + 604 inspections to simplify the compliance process and minimize disruption.

Trusted by Property Managers, HOAs, and Owners Across California

We proudly serve clients throughout the Bay Area and beyond, including:

• Apartment owners

• Property management firms

• Real estate investors

Our clients consistently praise us for our responsiveness, professionalism, and ability to make complex regulations easier to navigate.

Schedule Your Inspection Today

If your property hasn’t yet been inspected—or you’re unsure whether you fall under SB 721—now is the time to act. Partner with a firm that understands the law, the safety standards, and how to guide you through the process without unnecessary delays or confusion.

Call (415) 516-8110 or email info@pcreinspections.com to schedule your inspection.

Pacific Coast Real Estate Inspections — Experience You Can Trust. Compliance You Can Count On.