Exterior view of an apartment building featuring well-designed balconies, compliant with California safety laws.

SB 721 & SB 326: Ensuring Compliance with California’s Balcony Safety Laws

November 21, 2024

Exterior view of an apartment building featuring well-designed balconies, compliant with California safety laws.

With AB2579, property owners now have until January 1, 2026, to complete their first inspection, giving a bit more breathing room to meet this requirement. It’s important to note that the deadline for SB 326 remains January 1, 2025.

Two California balcony safety laws require immediate attention. As the importance of balcony safety in multifamily buildings gains increasing attention, the state of California has enacted two critical laws: Senate Bill (SB) 721 and Senate Bill 326. These laws have been implemented to enhance balconies’ safety standards and structural integrity.

On September 28, 2024, California’s Governor approved Assembly Bill 2579 (AB2579), which changes the timeline for required balcony inspections under SB 721. SB 721 was put in place to ensure that balconies and other elevated structures are safe and regularly inspected by licensed professionals. 

If your building had a balcony inspection between January 1, 2016 and January 1, 2019, you’ll need to get another inspection done by the new deadline—January 1, 2026—and then every six years from the date of that report. On the other hand, if your building was inspected in line with SB 721 between January 1, 2019, and now, you’re all set until six years from your inspection date. After this, all inspections will follow a six-year cycle based on the report date of each inspection.

California Balcony Safety Laws: What You Need to Know

It is advisable for property owners to seek professional assistance, such as the services offered by CAMP, to meet the requirements of California balcony safety laws SB 721 and SB 326. Taking proactive action to comply will ensure the safety of all individuals and protect the reputation of commercial property owners across California. 

Don’t forget that CAMP offers balcony inspections, maintenance, and construction nationwide in 29 states, not just in California!

An inspector examining a balcony railing to ensure structural integrity and safety compliance with California balcony safety laws.

SB 721: Addressing Safety in Apartments and Multifamily Buildings

SB 721 is a crucial legislative measure designed to enhance the safety of balconies in apartments and multifamily buildings throughout California. This law mandates regular balcony inspections every six years, focusing on identifying and addressing potential hazards before they pose significant risks. By establishing a comprehensive inspection cycle, SB 721 aims to prevent balcony-related accidents and promote the long-term safety of residents and visitors in apartments and multifamily buildings.

SB 326: Ensuring Safety in Condominiums and Condominium Associations

SB 326, specifically targeted at condominiums and HOAs, underscores the importance of safety measures in these types of residential buildings. This legislation reflects the ongoing efforts in California to prevent future balcony collapses and structural failures, particularly in condominiums. SB 326 requires inspections every nine years, emphasizing the need for proactive maintenance and regular assessments to ensure the stability and safety of balconies in condominiums.

The Need for Balcony Inspections

Under SB 721, inspections of balconies and exterior elevated elements are necessary to identify any signs of deterioration, damage, or structural weaknesses that may compromise their safety. Regular inspections provide an opportunity to address potential issues promptly. By implementing inspections, property owners can ensure the safety of residents, visitors, and the community.

Defining Exterior Elevated Elements

Exterior elevated elements, as defined by SB 721 and SB 326, encompass balconies, decks, stairways, walkways, and similar structures that are exposed to the outdoors and are elevated above ground level. These elements can deteriorate over time due to various factors, including weather conditions, wear and tear, and construction flaws. The balcony safety laws ensure that these elements undergo regular inspections to promptly detect and address any safety concerns. If you need inspections or repairs to any exterior elevated elements, CAMP is the only contractor you need – we provide services for all of these, not just balconies. 

The Rationale Behind the California Balcony Laws

SB 721 and SB 326 highlight the government’s commitment to protecting public safety and preventing future incidents related to balcony failures. These incidents pose a risk to life and limb and impose legal, financial, and reputational consequences on property owners. The laws seek to establish a proactive approach, placing accountability on property owners to maintain the safety of their buildings and prevent tragic incidents.

Remaining in Compliance with the Law

Consider partnering with a reliable and experienced service provider to comply with SB 721 and SB 326 and meet the mandatory inspections before the deadlines. This is where CAMP’s expertise comes into play. CAMP, a leading company in the industry, offers comprehensive balcony services designed to ensure compliance with SB 721 and SB 326.

Is CAMP Facility Services Qualified to Perform SB 721& SB 326 Inspections & Repairs?

Yes. Due to stringent requirements, not all companies are qualified to help you remain compliant with California balcony safety laws. At CAMP, we are qualified to perform SB 721 and SB 326 inspections. We contract experienced and reputable structural engineers to conduct thorough inspections. Our professionals utilize advanced technology, equipment, and industry knowledge to provide comprehensive reports on any structural defects or vulnerabilities.

Balcony inspection for signs of damage or decay to prevent potential hazards.

CAMP: Your Trusted Compliance Partner

CAMP is committed to assisting commercial property owners nationwide in meeting the requirements of SB 721 and maintaining the safety of their buildings. With extensive experience and expertise, CAMP provides professional inspections, expert analysis, and cost-effective solutions to address any issues related to exterior elevated elements. With CAMP’s services, property owners can have peace of mind, knowing that their buildings comply with SB 721 and SB 326.

Remember the deadline to complete EEE inspections is January 1, 2025, to stay SB 326-compliant, and January 1, 2026, to stay SB 721-compliant.

Don’t wait; call us at 888-596-2137 or reach out to us online to start your project today!

Share This Post