Frequently Asked Questions
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SB 721 mandates the inspection of certain elevated structures such as balconies, decks, and walkways in residential buildings with three or more multi-family dwelling units. Under this law, the initial inspections must be completed by January 1, 2026 (Update: Deadline extended from Jan 2025 to Jan 2026 per AB 2579). Subsequent inspections are required every six years thereafter to ensure ongoing compliance and safety.
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SB 326 is a California law that requires condominium buildings governed by homeowners' associations (HOAs) to undergo mandatory inspections of Exterior Elevated Elements (EEEs), such as balconies, decks, stairways, and walkways. The law ensures these structures are safe, structurally sound, and free from deterioration that could pose a safety risk. The first inspection deadline is January 1, 2025, with follow-up inspections required every nine years. SB 326 helps HOAs identify and address potential issues before they become hazardous, ensuring long-term building safety and compliance.
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An Exterior Elevated Element (EEE) is any load-bearing structure that extends beyond a building’s exterior walls and is elevated above the ground. This includes balconies, decks, exterior stairways, and walkways that are supported primarily by wood or steel. EEEs are subject to weather exposure and wear over time, which can lead to structural deterioration. California laws SB 721 and SB 326 require periodic inspections of these elements to ensure their safety and structural integrity, helping to prevent failures and protect occupants.
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Properties with three or more multi-family dwelling units and certain elevated structures, such as balconies, decks, and walkways, are typically subject to SB 721 inspection requirements. If you're unsure whether your property falls under this category, feel free to contact us for clarification.
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An SB 721 inspection is a thorough examination of balconies, decks, and other exterior elevated elements (EEEs) to identify signs of water damage, structural integrity issues, and defects in load-bearing components and associated waterproofing elements. Our inspectors may use specialized tools, such as a boroscope, to inspect hard-to-see areas. Following the inspection, we provide a comprehensive report detailing our findings and recommending remedial actions to ensure the safety and longevity of the structure.
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Failure to comply with SB 721 inspection requirements can result in penalties and fines. Moreover, neglecting to identify and address potential safety hazards can pose risks to residents and visitors, as well as potential legal liabilities for property owners.
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The cost of an SB 721 inspection depends on the amount of exterior elevated elements (such as stairways, balconies, decks, elevated walkways, landings, etc.) on the property. Please contact us for a personalized quote.
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We now offer services for SB 326 HOA inspections. For SB 326 inspections, please get in contact with us for further evaluation.
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If the inspection reveals structural deficiencies or safety hazards, we will provide you with a detailed report outlining the defects and recommended remediation measures. We can also offer guidance and support in addressing these concerns to ensure that your property meets all necessary safety standards.
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Our services specialize in SB 721 inspections for multi-unit properties with three or more units. As such, we currently do not offer inspections for single-family homes. Our expertise lies in ensuring the safety and compliance of multi-family residential buildings. If you have any questions about the eligibility of your property for SB 721 inspections, please contact us for further information.
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The duration of an SB 721 inspection can vary depending on the size and complexity of the property. Typically, inspections can take a up to a few hours to complete.
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There are no hidden fees associated with our SB 721 inspections. The quoted price covers the cost of the inspection and any necessary reporting.