California landlords, listen up! The deadline for SB721 balcony inspections has been extended. The new compliance date is January 1, 2026. This gives you extra time to ensure your multi-family properties meet safety standards.
SB721 requires thorough inspections of exterior elevated elements like balconies and walkways in buildings with three or more multi-family units. The law aims to prevent tragic accidents and protect residents. As a property owner, you’re responsible for hiring qualified inspectors to assess these structures and make any necessary repairs.
Don’t wait until the last minute to schedule your inspections. Start planning now to avoid the rush and potential delays as the deadline approaches. Remember, compliance isn’t just about meeting legal requirements – it’s about ensuring the safety of your tenants and protecting your investment.
In this article:
- What is SB721?
- Who Needs to Comply with SB721?
- Inspection Requirements for Landlords
- What Are the Deadlines and Penalties?
- How to Prepare for Inspections
- Should Landlords Hire Qualified Inspectors?
- How to Maintain Compliance with SB721
What is SB721?
SB721 is a California law passed in 2018 that mandates safety inspections for apartment balconies and decks. It’s officially known as Chapter 445 in the California Health & Safety Code, but most in the real estate world still refer to it as SB721.
The law requires property owners to have exterior elevated elements (EEEs) inspected by qualified professionals. These include balconies, decks, porches, stairways, walkways, and entry structures more than 6 feet above ground level. The inspections aim to identify any safety issues or structural concerns.
You’ll need to ensure your property’s EEEs are inspected by a licensed architect, civil or structural engineer, or a certified building inspector. They’ll check for water damage, dry rot, and other potential hazards. If problems are found, you’re required to make necessary repairs within a specified timeframe.
Who Needs to Comply with SB721?
SB721 applies to owners of multi-family residential buildings in California with three or more dwelling units. This includes apartment complexes, condominiums, and other similar structures. If you own a property that falls under this category, you’re required to comply with the law.
Single-family homes and duplexes are exempt from SB721 requirements. The law specifically targets buildings with exterior elevated elements (EEEs) like balconies, decks, porches, stairways, walkways, and entry structures that extend beyond the building’s exterior walls and are more than 6 feet above ground level.
Key compliance factors:
- Building type: Multi-family (3+ units)
- Presence of EEEs
- Height of EEEs (>6 feet above ground)
Remember, even if you recently purchased a property, you’re responsible for ensuring it meets SB721 standards. It’s crucial to check your building’s inspection status and plan accordingly.
Inspection Requirements for Landlords
You need to have your balconies, decks, and exterior elevated elements inspected by a qualified professional. This includes licensed architects, civil or structural engineers, or building contractors with at least 5 years of experience. The inspection must assess the waterproofing, load-bearing components, and associated structural elements.
Make sure the inspector checks for signs of water damage, dry rot, fungal growth, and other deterioration. They should also evaluate the condition of railings, guardrails, and connections to the building. Document all findings thoroughly, including photos and detailed descriptions of any issues identified.
After the inspection, you’ll receive a report outlining any necessary repairs or replacements. Address these promptly to ensure compliance with SB-721. Keep all inspection reports and repair documentation on file for at least two inspection cycles, which is typically 12 years. Remember, regular maintenance between inspections is crucial for safety and compliance.
What Are the Deadlines and Penalties?
The deadline for completing the first SB721 inspection has been extended to January 1, 2026. This gives you extra time to comply with the law’s requirements. As a landlord, you need to have qualified inspectors examine the exterior elevated elements of your buildings, including balconies, decks, and walkways.
If hazardous conditions are found during the inspection, you must report them to your local building department. You’ll then have 120 days to complete any necessary repairs. Failing to meet these deadlines can result in serious consequences.
Local building departments can impose penalties of up to $500 per day for non-compliant properties. To avoid these fines, make sure you schedule your inspections well before the deadline and promptly address any issues identified.
How to Prepare for Inspections
Start by gathering all relevant documentation for your property. This includes building plans, previous inspection reports, and maintenance records. You’ll want these handy for the inspector to review.
Next, conduct a preliminary self-assessment. Walk through your property and look for obvious issues like cracks, water stains, or loose railings. Make a list of any concerns you spot – this can help guide the inspector’s focus.
Ensure easy access to all areas that need inspection. Clear pathways to balconies, decks, and stairways. Remove any furniture or decorations that might obstruct the view of structural elements. If you have tenants, give them advance notice about the inspection.
Consider using technology to your advantage. Drones with high-resolution cameras can be useful for inspecting hard-to-reach areas. Moisture meters can help detect hidden water damage, which is a common cause of structural failures.
Lastly, be prepared to discuss your property’s maintenance history. The inspector may ask about recent repairs or upgrades. Having this information ready can streamline the inspection process and demonstrate your commitment to property upkeep.
Should Landlords Hire Qualified Inspectors?
Yes, landlords should absolutely hire qualified inspectors for SB-721 compliance. As a retired property inspector, I can’t stress this enough. The safety of your tenants and the integrity of your property are at stake.
Qualified inspectors bring expertise in building codes and regulations. They’re trained to spot potential hazards that might not be obvious to the untrained eye. Look for professionals who are familiar with SB-721 requirements and have experience inspecting multi-family dwellings.
Hiring a qualified inspector can save you money in the long run. They can identify issues early, preventing costly repairs or potential liability. Plus, their detailed reports provide documentation of your compliance efforts, which can be invaluable if questions arise later.
Remember, this isn’t just about ticking a box for legal compliance. It’s about ensuring the safety of your tenants and protecting your investment. Don’t cut corners here – it’s not worth the risk.
How to Maintain Compliance with SB721
To stay compliant with SB721, you’ll need to take several key steps. First, schedule regular inspections with a qualified professional. These should occur at least once every six years, focusing on exterior elevated elements like balconies and walkways.
Keep detailed records of all inspections and repairs. Document any issues found and the actions taken to address them. This paper trail is crucial for proving compliance if questioned.
Implement a proactive maintenance plan. Don’t wait for problems to arise – regularly check for signs of water damage, rust, or decay. Address any issues promptly to prevent them from becoming major safety hazards.
Educate your tenants about proper balcony use and maintenance. Provide clear guidelines on weight limits, furniture placement, and reporting any concerns. This helps prevent damage and ensures early detection of potential problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific signs should I look for when inspecting my property’s balconies and walkways?
When inspecting your balconies and walkways, look for cracks in the surface, signs of water damage like stains or mold, loose or damaged railings, and any visible rot in the wood. Also, check for rust on metal components and ensure that drainage systems are clear and functioning properly.
Can I perform the inspections myself, or do I have to hire a professional?
While you can conduct a preliminary visual inspection, California law requires that the official inspections be performed by a qualified professional, such as a licensed architect or engineer. This ensures that the inspections meet legal standards and that all potential hazards are properly identified.
What happens if I miss the SB721 deadline?
If you miss the January 1, 2026 deadline, you could face penalties from your local building department, which can be as high as $500 per day for non-compliance. Additionally, failing to comply may put your tenants at risk and could lead to legal liabilities if an accident occurs due to unsafe conditions.
Are there any grants or financial assistance programs available for landlords to help with inspection costs?
Some local governments and housing authorities in California may offer grants or low-interest loans to help landlords cover the costs of inspections and necessary repairs. It’s a good idea to check with your local housing office or community development department for any available programs that can assist you financially.
How can I educate my tenants about balcony safety and maintenance?
You can educate your tenants by providing them with written guidelines on balcony use, including weight limits for furniture and plants, proper storage practices, and instructions for reporting any issues. Consider holding an informational meeting or sending out newsletters to discuss safety tips and maintenance reminders regularly.