The security of your tenants is crucial if you own or manage a multifamily building in California. The balcony is one spot that might be quite dangerous. While balconies are sometimes the sole access points for residents to the outdoors and fresh air, they can pose a risk of injury if not kept in good condition. The balcony inspection requirements for multifamily buildings in California will be covered in this blog article.
California's Balcony Inspection Law
A new rule requiring six-year balcony inspections was approved in California in 2018 and applies to all multifamily buildings with three units or more. This regulation was enacted in reaction to the terrible balcony fall that killed six persons in Berkeley, California, in 2015.
Building owners are required by this regulation to have their balconies inspected by a qualified architect, engineer, or contractor. The structural components, waterproofing, and corrosion prevention must all be examined during the examination. Together with the inspection results and any suggested fixes, the inspector must also deliver a written report.
If the inspector identifies any hazards or potential hazards, the building owner must take immediate action to address them. Failure to comply with this law can result in penalties and fines.
Additional Balcony Inspection Standards
In addition to the mandatory inspection every six years, there are other standards that building owners should follow to ensure the safety of their balconies:
· Regular Maintenance: Building owners should conduct regular maintenance of their balconies to prevent deterioration and catch any potential issues early.
· Visual Inspections: Building owners should conduct visual inspections of their balconies between the mandatory inspections to look for any signs of deterioration or damage.
· Tenant Education: Building owners should educate their tenants on the proper use of balconies, including weight limits and prohibited activities.
· Non-Slip Surfaces: Building owners should install non-slip surfaces on their balconies to reduce the risk of slip and fall accidents.
By following these additional balcony inspection standards, building owners can further ensure the safety of their tenants and reduce the risk of balcony-related accidents.
Conclusion
Balconies are an essential feature of multifamily buildings in California, but they can also pose a significant risk if not properly maintained. California's balcony inspection law requires building owners to hire a licensed professional to inspect their balconies every six years. However, building owners should also follow additional standards, such as regular maintenance and visual inspections, to ensure the safety of their tenants. By prioritizing balcony safety, building owners can provide their tenants with a safe and enjoyable living environment.
EEEAdvisor is dedicated to assisting clients in achieving compliance with the deadlines and ensuring the security of their facilities. To achieve this, the company strives to educate clients on the applicable standards and regulations established in SB721 and SB326. EEEadvisor Engineering, based in California and co-founded by Omid Ghanadiof, provides engineering inspection services to support homeowners associations (HOAs) and landlords in complying with state regulations for balcony inspections. If you require further information, please do not hesitate to contact EEEAdvisor at (805) 312-8513 or through the email address info@EEEadvisor.com.