Rimkus California Balcony Compliance
SB 326 Expertise
We help HOAs meet balcony and elevated walkway inspection deadlines under Civil Code 5551.
SB 721 Guidance
For landlords and owners of multi-family residential buildings we ensure all exterior elevated elements (EEE’s) are reviewed under the California Health & Safety Code.
Licensed and Insured
Work with licensed architects and engineers who specialize in structural assessment and documentation.
Understanding SB 326 and SB 721
What Are These Laws and Who Do They Affect?
The deadline for compliance with SB 721 has been extended to January 1, 2026. This extension was approved on September 28, 2024, under Bill AB 2579, providing property owners with additional time to complete the necessary inspections of balconies and similar structures.
SB 721 Inspection Requirements (applies to apartment buildings with 3+ units):
- If your property was inspected between January 1, 2016 and January 1, 2019:
- You must complete a new inspection by January 1, 2026
- If your property was inspected after January 1, 2019:
- Your next inspection is due 6 years after the date of the last inspection
SB 326 Inspection Requirements (applies to condo associations/HOAs):
- Initial inspection must be completed by January 1, 2025
- Follow-up inspections are required every 9 years after initial inspection
These laws were passed to prevent failures of structural components that could result in injuries or fatalities. Inspections must be conducted by licensed professionals.
Benefits of SB 326 and SB 721:
Prevent Major Structural Failures
Regular inspections help identify minor issues before they become complicated or catastrophic. By catching structural weaknesses early, property owners can avoid costly emergency repairs and, more importantly, prevent accidents that could cause serious injury or death.
Compliance with State Laws
By adhering to SB 721 and SB 326, property owners and condominium associations can avoid penalties and legal liability associated with non-compliance. Failing to conduct the required inspections or missing deadlines could lead to significant fines, legal challenges, and safety violations.
Preserve Property Value
Regular inspections and timely maintenance of balconies, decks, and other critical structures can help extend the lifespan of a building, preserving its value. Ensuring that the building is safe and well-maintained is essential for maintaining tenant satisfaction, attracting future buyers, and protecting investments.
Tenant Safety
The ultimate goal of these laws is to protect tenants. By addressing potential risks proactively, property owners can ensure a safer living environment for residents. This not only improves the quality of life for tenants but also fosters a stronger community.
Peace of Mind
Completing these inspections and remediation steps provides peace of mind to property owners, managers, and residents. Knowing that the building has been professionally assessed for structural integrity removes uncertainty and reduces the risk of unforeseen failures.
Avoid Fines and Liability
Missing the deadlines for these inspections can expose property owners to penalties and liability risks. These fines can be significant and add to the overall cost of maintaining the building. By staying on top of the inspection requirements for both SB 721 and SB 326, you can avoid these financial risks and ensure the continued safety and compliance of your building.
We’re here to help you stay compliant, stay safe, and stay ahead of potential issues. Contact us today to schedule your inspections and take the necessary steps to protect your property, your tenants, and your investment.
Why Choose Rimkus?
We’re California’s Compliance Experts.
With over 40 years of experience in forensic investigation, Rimkus offers a level of expertise few firms can match. Our background in uncovering the root causes of structural failures gives us a unique edge when it comes to identifying risks in balconies, decks, and exterior elevated elements. We don’t just check boxes, we apply the same rigorous approach we use in complex failure analysis to ensure your property is thoroughly inspected, fully documented, and compliant with California’s SB326 and SB721 requirements. When lives, liability, and large assets are on the line, you want the firm that leads the industry in identifying what went wrong, why it happened, and how to prevent it.
- Licensed engineers and architects with Exterior Elevated Elements (EEE) specialization
- Flat-fee, transparent pricing—no surprises
- Digital photo reports for clear documentation
- Fast turnarounds to meet urgent deadlines
- Full project support from start to finish
Don’t risk missing deadlines or rejected reports. Work with a qualified firm.
Common Issues We Find During Inspections
Rotting or Decayed Wood on Decks and Balconies
Rusting or Corroded
Railings and Supports
Sagging or Improperly Supported Structures
Cracked Concrete
or Spalling Surfaces
Missing or Corroded Fasteners and Bolts
Failing Waterproofing Systems
Water Intrusion
from Poor Drainage
Loose Handrails
or Guardrails
These common structural issues; like wood rot, rusted railings, cracked concrete, and failing waterproofing, can compromise safety and lead to costly repairs if left unaddressed. Rimkus inspections are designed to identify these concerns early, helping you stay compliant and extend the life of your exterior elements.
The Rimkus Advantage
| Feature | Rimkus | Traditional Firms | Unlicensed Inspectors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Licensed Professionals |  | |  |
| SB 326 / SB 721 Experts | | | |
| Flat-Rate Pricing | | | |
| Digital Reports with Photos | | | |
| Ongoing Support | | | |
| Legal Accountability | | | |
How It Works
Step 1 – Schedule an inspection consultation
Step 2 – We perform a detailed inspection with photo documentation
Step 3 – Receive a compliance report with recommendations
Step 4 – We assist with coordinating repairs and final approvals
Let’s Get Started
Schedule an Inspection Consultation Today
We’ll review your property, answer your questions, and help you plan your next steps.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are SB 326 and SB 721?
SB 326 and SB 721 are California state laws mandating regular inspections of Exterior Elevated Elements (EEEs) such as balconies, decks, stairways, and walkways in multi-unit residential buildings. SB 326 applies to condominiums and common interest developments managed by Homeowners Associations (HOAs), while SB 721 pertains to apartment buildings and other multi-family rental properties.
Who is required to comply with these laws?
- SB 326: HOAs overseeing condominiums and common interest developments with three or more dwelling units.
- SB 721: Owners of multi-family residential buildings with three or more units, including apartments and other rental properties.
What are Exterior Elevated Elements (EEEs)?
EEEs are structural components that extend beyond a building’s exterior walls, are designed for human occupancy or use, have a walking surface more than six feet above ground level, and rely on wood or wood-based products for structural support. Examples include balconies, decks, stairways, walkways, and their associated railings and supports.
What are the inspection deadlines?
- SB 326: First inspection by January 1, 2025, with subsequent inspections every nine years.
- SB 721: First inspection by January 1, 2026, with subsequent inspections every six years.
Who is qualified to perform these inspections?
- SB 326: Licensed architects or structural engineers.
- SB 721: Licensed architects, structural engineers, general contractors with specific licenses (A, B, or C-5) and at least five years of experience, or certified building inspectors as determined by local jurisdictions.
What if issues are found during an inspection?
If an inspection reveals conditions that pose an immediate safety risk, repairs must be initiated promptly, often within 15 to 120 days, depending on the severity and local regulations. Failure to address these issues can result in fines, legal liabilities, and potential restrictions on property use.
What are the penalties for non-compliance?
Non-compliance with SB 326 and SB 721 can lead to significant penalties, including daily fines ranging from $100 to $500, legal action, and increased liability in the event of accidents or structural failures. Additionally, non-compliant properties may face challenges in sales or refinancing processes.
How can Rimkus assist with compliance?
Rimkus offers comprehensive services to ensure compliance with SB 326 and SB 721, including:
- Assistance with documentation and record-keeping for regulatory compliance.
- Licensed and experienced inspectors specializing in EEEs.
- Detailed inspection reports with photographic documentation.
- Guidance on necessary repairs and maintenance.
How do I schedule an inspection with Rimkus?
To schedule an inspection or consultation, please email loren.nelson@rimkus.com or call us at +1 949 745 5022. Our team will promptly assist you in initiating the compliance process.
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