California Property Owner Update

If you own or manage multifamily dwelling of three or more units in California, there’s an important deadline you can’t afford to miss.

California Senate Bill 721 (SB 721) — also known as the “Balcony Inspection Law” — requires mandatory inspections of certain exterior elevated elements (EEEs), such as decks, balconies, and stairways. The goal? To prevent tragic failures like the 2015 Berkeley balcony collapse that killed six people and injured seven more.

Here’s what you need to know:

 What Is SB 721?

SB 721 was signed into law in 2018 and requires that multi-unit residential buildings with 3 or more units have periodic inspections of load-bearing exterior elements that are:

• Wood-framed
• More than 6 feet above ground level
• Exposed to weather

Examples include balconies, decks, porches, stairways, and walkways.

 Key Deadline: January 1, 2026

Property owners must complete their initial inspection by January 1, 2026. After this, inspections must be repeated every 6 years.

 What Must Be Inspected?

The inspection must be performed by a licensed architect, civil/structural engineer, certified inspector or certain licensed contractors. They’ll check for:

• Water damage or dry rot
• Rust or corrosion in metal connectors
• General structural integrity

 Who Is Affected?

• Apartment building owners or property managers

(Note: SB 326 is the similar bill for HOAs and condos only — more on that another time.)

 What Should You Do Now?

1. Schedule your inspection ASAP. Qualified professionals are in high demand.
2. Budget for potential repairs.
3. Maintain records — You’ll need proof of inspection and repairs to remain compliant.
4. Don’t delay — Penalties may include fines and “unsafe to occupy” notices.
5. Deadline — Don’t put it off. The closer you get to the deadline, the fewer inspectors will be available.