SB 721 Exterior Elevated Inspections
Ensuring the safety and integrity of your property is not just a legal requirement—it’s a responsibility that every property owner should prioritize. At Superior Home Solutions, we understand the critical importance of maintaining the structural soundness of exterior elevated elements such as balconies, decks, and stairways. Our expert team is dedicated to providing comprehensive inspections that go beyond mere compliance with the law. We are committed to safeguarding the well-being of your tenants and visitors by thoroughly assessing all elevated structures for potential risks, ensuring that your property remains secure, resilient, and up to code. Trust us to help you protect both your investment and the people who depend on it.
About SB 721
California’s SB 721, known as the Deck and Balcony Law, mandates inspections of exterior elevated elements (E3) for multi-family residential buildings. These inspections are now required by law to ensure the safety and structural integrity of features like balconies, decks, stairways, and porches. Structures that project from residential buildings and are elevated more than six feet above the ground level must undergo these essential evaluations. This legislation directly affects buildings with three or more units and aims to prevent structural failures, ensuring safety for residents and property owners alike.
At Superior Home Solutions, we specialize in conducting thorough SB 721 inspections. We ensure that your building complies with state regulations and that your exterior structures are safe for all residents. These inspections are designed to minimize the risk of structural failures, which can lead to severe legal and financial repercussions for property owners. With the deadline fast approaching, it’s crucial to act now and avoid potential fines or penalties.
Why Were These Inspections Mandated?
The introduction of SB 721 was triggered by the tragic Berkeley Balcony Collapse in 2015, which claimed six lives and left several others injured. Forensic investigations revealed that wood-framed cantilevered balconies, which were improperly maintained, posed a significant safety risk. To prevent future incidents, California lawmakers implemented SB 721 in 2018 and SB 326 in 2019, requiring regular inspections of these elevated structures.
These laws aim to ensure that all load-bearing elements relying on wood-based materials are thoroughly examined. Over time, wood can deteriorate due to weather, moisture, and natural decay, compromising the strength of critical structural components. SB 721 helps to identify these risks before they lead to catastrophic failures, allowing property owners to take preventive action and keep residents safe.
Superior Home Solutions is committed to helping building owners understand the importance of these inspections and comply with the regulations in a timely manner. By staying ahead of these inspections, property owners can avoid the risks of structural failure, costly repairs, and potential legal liabilities.
What Does the Inspection Include?
During an SB 721 Exterior Elevated Element (E3) inspection, we assess various elements, including:
- Balconies
- Decks
- Porches
- Exterior stairways and walkways
- Railings and guardrails
These elements are all critical to the structural safety of a building, especially when elevated more than six feet above the ground. The inspection process involves a detailed evaluation of each structure to ensure there is no decay, deterioration, or damage that could compromise load-bearing capacity. If any issues are identified, they must be addressed promptly to bring the building into compliance with the law.
In addition to identifying areas that need repair, the inspection includes testing for moisture intrusion and examining load-bearing supports, fasteners, and connections. Any exterior element that does not meet safety standards will be flagged, and corrective action will be required to ensure compliance. The ultimate goal is to prevent any potential risks to the safety of residents or visitors.
Who Can Perform the Inspection?
SB 721 inspections must be performed by qualified professionals who hold specific certifications and licenses. At Superior Home Solutions, our team is fully certified to conduct these inspections and provide detailed reports as required by law. Qualified inspectors can include:
- Licensed architects
- Licensed civil or structural engineers
- Certified building inspectors
- Licensed contractors with an A, B, or C5 classification
Our team brings over 14 years of experience in the construction and building inspection industry, allowing us to provide reliable, accurate, and compliant inspections for your property. We work closely with property owners to ensure all required elements are inspected and documented correctly.
What Happens If You Don’t Comply?
Failing to comply with SB 721 can lead to serious legal consequences. If exterior elevated elements are found to be unsafe and corrective repairs are not initiated within the required time frame, building owners may face civil penalties. These fines can range from $100 to $500 per day until the necessary repairs are made. Additionally, a safety lien may be placed on the property, further complicating matters for property owners.
To avoid these penalties and ensure your building remains in compliance, it is crucial to have your SB 721 inspection completed before the January 1, 2025 deadline. Subsequent inspections must be conducted every six years to maintain compliance and safety.
Schedule Your SB 721 Inspection Today!
Don’t wait until the deadline to have your balcony or deck inspected. Ensure compliance with California law and keep your tenants safe by scheduling your SB 721 inspection with Superior Home Solutions. Our team of experts is ready to provide a thorough and comprehensive assessment of your exterior elevated elements.
Contact us today for a FREE quote and inspection. Call 877-374-6662 or visit our contact page to get started.
