If you own a building or manage a property in California, it's important to be aware of the requirements for balcony inspections under SB 326 and SB 721. These laws require regular inspections of elevated structures, including balconies, to ensure the safety of residents and tenants. Here's what you need to know about SB 326 and SB 721 inspections in California:
1. What are SB 326 and SB 721?
SB 326 and SB 721 are California state laws that require regular inspections of elevated structures, including balconies, on certain types of buildings. SB 326, also known as the Balcony Inspection Bill, was enacted in 2018 and applies to multi-family residential buildings with three or more units. SB 721, also known as the Building Safety Bill, was enacted in 2018 and applies to all buildings with three or more units that were built before January 1, 1994.
2. What is Required in an SB 326 and SB 721 Inspection?
SB 326 and SB 721 inspections require a licensed structural engineer or architect to inspect all elevated structures, including balconies, for any signs of deterioration or damage. The inspection will look for items such as water damage, rust, dry rot, or other signs of deterioration. The inspection will also ensure that the balcony and any other elevated structures meet current safety standards.
3. What is the Frequency of Inspections?
SB 326 requires that the first inspection of a building's elevated structures be completed by January 1, 2025, and subsequent inspections must be completed every six years thereafter. SB 721 requires the first inspection to be completed by January 1, 2025, and subsequent inspections must be completed every five years thereafter.
4. What Happens If Issues are Found?
If an inspection reveals any structural deficiencies or safety hazards, the building owner or manager must take immediate action to repair or replace the affected elements. Failure to address any issues found during an inspection can result in fines or legal action.
5. Importance of Hiring a Professional
SB 326 and SB 721 inspections must be conducted by a licensed structural engineer or architect who is experienced in balcony and elevated structure inspections. Hiring a professional inspection company ensures that the inspection is conducted thoroughly and accurately, and that any issues found are addressed in a timely manner.
In conclusion, SB 326 and SB 721 inspections are essential for maintaining the safety of multi-family residential buildings and other structures in California. Failure to comply with these laws can result in fines or legal action. Hiring a licensed and experienced professional inspection company is the best way to ensure that your building's elevated structures meet current safety standards and avoid potential legal issues. Contact a reputable inspection company today to schedule your inspection and protect your property.
EEEAdvisor is striving to educate clients on these standards and the regulations established in SB721 and SB326 in order to assist clients in meeting the compliance deadline and ensure the security of their facilities. Omid Ghanadiof is a co-founder of the Southern California-based engineering inspections company EEEadvisor Engineering. EEEadvisor Engineers assists homeowners associations (HOAs) and owners of rental homes in adhering to state laws for balcony inspections, as per Senate Bills 721 and 326. For further information, get in touch with Mr. Ghanadiof at (805) 312-8513 or http://info@EEEadvisor.com.