What is SB-721?
"The Balcony Law"
This statewide California law requires an inspection of "elevated exterior elements" for buildings with 3+ multifamily units.
An inspection must be completed by January 1, 2026 and reinspected at a minimum every 6 years.
What am I required to do?
- If emergency repairs are required, the Inspector and Owner must submit the report to governing agency within 15-days and begin work immediately.
- If non emergency repairs are noted, the Owner must get permit approval within 120-days of receiving the inspection report and must provide a final report detailing completed work within 120-days of permit approval.
Penalty For Not Complying
If an Owner does NOT complete the required work within the mandated timeline, after a 30-day notice to cure, the governing agency can impose fines from $100-$500 per day!
THE SB-721 Compliance Process
1. Set Up Review
The process entails a walk around the property, checking units underneath exposed decks and surface of decks. Get a non-binding consultation of the property.
Potential Results
- Passing Response: You should get an inspection report and submit prior to the January 1, 2026 deadline.
- Specific Damage: Damage is present and non lie-threatening, but repairs highly recommended.
- Emergency: Repairs are required. You have limited options. Health and safety exposure is present.
2. Review Consultation
Review the consultation with a real estate Adviser and Inspector once a general estimate of the cost to repair is determined.
3. Your Options
Establish your ability to fund the required repairs. If you do not have available fund to meet the required repair costs, we recommend that you speak with an Adviser on next steps.
4. Order Formal Inspection
You will begin discussions with a Deck Diagnostics specialist for design and build for the renovation. Our Contractor will guide you in whether a permit is required.
5. Repairs
We will begin work to complete repairs.
6. Final Inspection
We will complete a final inspection stating that all required work has been completed and that the property is safe from hazards as required by SB-721.