If you own or manage a multifamily property in California, you’ve likely heard about the state’s mandatory balcony inspection laws—SB 721 and SB 326. These laws were passed in response to safety concerns after several tragic deck collapses and are designed to protect residents and limit liability for property owners.

At Pacific Skyline, we provide state-certified balcony inspections to help apartment and condo owners meet these legal requirements while maintaining the safety and integrity of their buildings.

What Are SB 721 and SB 326?

These two laws apply to multifamily buildings with elevated exterior elements like balconies, decks, stairways, and walkways:

• SB 721 applies to apartment buildings (non-condo multifamily properties with 3 or more units).

• SB 326 applies to condominiums and HOAs (common interest developments).

Both laws require periodic inspections of load-bearing components of exterior elevated elements (EEEs) that are six feet or more above ground and rely on wood or wood-based materials for structural support.

Inspection Requirements

Property owners must hire a licensed structural engineer or architect to perform the inspection. The evaluation includes:

• Visual assessment of balconies, decks, walkways, and stairs

• Identification of deterioration, dry rot, water damage, or structural weakness

• Recommendations for repairs or further investigation, if needed

• Documentation and formal report retained on file for at least two inspection cycles
  
  

Deadlines to Know

• SB 721 (apartments): First inspection was due by January 1, 2025. After that, inspections must occur every 6 years.

• SB 326 (condos): First inspection due by January 1, 2025, and then every 9 years.

• For new construction, inspections must be completed within 6 years of issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy.

Failing to meet these deadlines could result in fines or enforcement action.

Why It Matters

Beyond code compliance, these inspections can help prevent costly lawsuits, injury, or property damage. Insurance carriers may also ask for proof of structural evaluations, and some local governments are increasing oversight of properties with deferred maintenance.

A timely, certified inspection helps:

• Protect resident safety

• Reduce liability

• Preserve property value

• Build trust with tenants or HOA members
  
  

How Pacific Skyline Can Help

Pacific Skyline is a qualified California licensed structural engineering firm that performs compliant balcony inspections under both SB 721 and SB 326. We:

• Conduct thorough visual assessments of all exterior elevated elements

• Provide the required written reports with clear repair recommendations

• Coordinate with property managers, HOA boards, and contractors

• Help you stay compliant while avoiding over-scoping or unnecessary repairs
  
  

If you’re approaching the deadline or aren’t sure if your property qualifies, now is the time to schedule your inspection. Pacific Skyline serves apartment and condo properties throughout Los Angeles and Orange Counties with professional, efficient, and code-compliant balcony evaluations.

Contact us today to schedule your SB 721 or SB 326 inspection.