Imagine stepping out onto your apartment balcony and questioning its safety. Now consider how your tenants might feel. The SB 721 balcony inspection law exists to prevent exactly this situation. This law is a legal requirement affecting thousands of buildings and mandates qualified inspections.
This requirement strengthens long-term safety standards for residents in multi-unit buildings. However, failing to comply can result in legal consequences for building owners. In this blog, we will discuss what the California balcony inspection law (SB 721) really means. We will also tell you what happens if your balcony fails an SB 721 inspection.
What Is SB 721 Balcony Inspection Law?
After heartbreaking balcony collapses, including the 2015 Berkeley tragedy that took young lives, California lawmakers stepped in. Their goal was to protect residents and prevent future disasters. This is why California Senate Bill 721 was passed in 2018, signed by Governor Jerry Brown, and became law in 2019. The law was introduced after engineers and lawmakers saw a major gap in existing building codes.
Traditional building codes did not always catch long-term issues in elevated structures. Over time, storms, water intrusion, rot, and corrosion slowly weaken exterior elevated elements. These include balconies, decks, stairways, porches, landings, and walkways. Much of this damage stays hidden. Many structures look solid on the outside. Internally, these structures continue to deteriorate. When visible signs appear, the risk is often already serious.
Under SB 721, property owners of multi-unit residential buildings must take action. The law applies to buildings with three or more units. Owners are required to inspect exterior elevated elements, also called EEEs. The requirement covers structures more than six feet above ground. It applies when those structures rely partly on wood or wood-based materials for support.
What Are SB 721 Inspection Requirements?
The SB 721 balcony inspection law, also known as the Exterior Elevated Elements (EEE) law, sets clear rules for compliance. These rules explain who must comply with the law and how inspections are conducted. They also define what inspectors must evaluate.
Who Needs to Comply with SB 721 Balcony Inspection Law?
Owners of residential buildings with three or more dwelling units must comply with SB 721 inspection requirements. These owners are responsible for arranging the required inspections. This requirement applies to landlords, property managers, and homeowner associations that oversee qualifying residential properties.
How Often Is SB 721 Balcony Inspection Performed?
Inspections are performed every six years. The original deadline for the first round of inspections was January 1, 2025. However, a new extension pushed that deadline to January 1, 2026, for multifamily buildings. This SB 721 California law extension has given owners a little more time to schedule qualified professionals.
Who Can Perform the SB 721 Inspection?
SB 721 requires qualified professionals for balcony inspection, including:
- Licensed architect
- Licensed civil or structural engineer
- Licensed general contractor (Class A, B, or C‑5 with 5 years of experience)
- Certified building inspector recognized by the local jurisdiction
What Is Included in the SB 721 Inspection Checklist?
The Inspector conducts a detailed SB 721 inspection. Major items included in the checklist are:
- Doors: flashings, dry rot
- Drains/Scuppers: debris, sealant, fasteners
- Flashing: improper installation, sealant, rust
- Framing: insect/water damage, dry rot, installation issues
- Load Bearing: insect/water damage, dry rot, installation issues
- Railings/Posts: loose, decay, rust
- Staircases (stringers/treads): insect/water damage, dry rot, installation issues
- Enclosed Soffits: water stains, efflorescence, paint issues
- Surface Membrane: joints/deterioration, cracks, sponginess
What Must Be Inspected?
Inspectors must visually evaluate at least 15% of each type of exterior elevated element on the property. So, if your building has different balcony designs or deck types, inspectors pick from each group to get a representative sample.
What Is Included in the SB 721 Inspection Report?
Once the balcony inspection is complete, the inspector provides a report to the building owner. If serious safety concerns are found, the report may also be shared with the local building authority. The report generally includes:
- Photographs and detailed condition descriptions
- Findings on structural strength and moisture control
- Immediate hazards flagged separately (reported within 15 days)
- Service‑life projections and repair recommendations
- Documentation to support future inspections and maintenance
- These reports must be maintained for at least 12 years (two inspection cycles).
What Happens If My Balcony Fails the SB 721 Inspection Requirements?
This might be what you are wondering now. Failing an inspection isn’t the end of the world. However, it’s a call to action. Here’s how it works:
- Immediate Hazards: Unsafe conditions (like major rot or weakened supports) must be reported to local building authorities within 15 days.
- Repair Deadlines: Building owners generally must:
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- Apply for permits within 120 days of the inspection report.
- Once permits are approved, complete repairs within another 120 days.
- Penalties for Non‑Compliance with SB 721 Inspection: Failing to complete necessary repairs on time can lead to:
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- Daily fines (often $100 to $500 per day).
- Safety liens may be placed on the property.
- Possible legal action by tenants or authorities.
- Insurance Claims Denial: Insurance claims related to balcony failures may be denied if the building is out of compliance.
How SB 721 Impacts Building Owners and Professionals
SB 721 affects inspection schedules, repair timelines, and long-term maintenance planning. Owners and professionals must now take a more proactive approach.
Building Owners
Owners must now be proactive. They can’t wait until tenants complain. Organizing inspections, tracking reports, scheduling repairs, and staying ahead of deadlines are all part of the job. Some buildings are budgeting for these checks years in advance.
Inspectors and Contractors
SB 721 has increased the demand for qualified inspectors and experienced contractors. These professionals play a major role in identifying early signs of deterioration before they become serious hazards.
Architects and Engineers
SB 721 places greater responsibility on architects and engineers to design with long-term durability in mind. Material selection, waterproofing details, and drainage systems require careful consideration. Designs must address moisture exposure and aging, not just structural loads.
Final Thoughts on California Balcony Inspection Law (SB 721)
SB 721, the balcony inspection law, represents a major shift in how exterior elevated elements are managed. The law focuses on prevention, accountability, and long-term safety. For building professionals, understanding SB 721 inspection requirements is essential. Vulcan Vents offers balcony inspection vents designed to meet SB 721 requirements. These vents are tested to meet ASTM standards and provide safe, easy access for inspectors.
What Is New in the SB 721 Balcony Inspection Law?
SB 721 requires inspections of balconies by a licensed architect, engineer, or contractor with five years of experience. All necessary repairs must be completed within 120 days. The deadline was January 1, 2026.
Did California Postpone SB 721?
Yes. AB 2579 extended the deadline for multifamily rental properties to January 1, 2026 (already passed).
Is Covering a Balcony Legal as Per the SB 721 Inspection Law?
The SB 721 inspection law does not ban covering balconies. Local permits and building code approval are needed for safety.
