Understanding the Balcony Law for Rental Properties
If you’re a property owner or landlord in California, the phrase “California balcony inspection law” should be on your radar. However, with the deadlines now in full effect, understanding what laws like SB 721 and SB 326 mean—and how they impact your rental or condo property—is no longer optional. It’s essential.
Balcony inspections are now mandatory for maintaining rental and multi-family residential buildings in California. There could be severe penalties or even legal repercussions for noncompliance.
In this updated guide, we’ll discuss both laws, inspection timelines, costs, compliance tips, legal implications, and everything else landlords need to know about balcony inspections California requires. Let’s get into it.
What is the California Balcony Inspection Law?
The term California balcony inspection law refers to two pieces of legislation passed in response to tragic balcony collapses in the state: SB 721 and SB 326. While they share a similar purpose—ensuring the structural safety of elevated exterior elements—they apply to different types of buildings.
- SB 721 applies to apartments and multi-family rental buildings.
- SB 326 targets condominiums and HOA-managed buildings.
These laws, enacted to improve deck and balcony safety, are sometimes referred to collectively as the “balcony law of California. ”
If you own or manage any building that fits the above, compliance isn’t optional—it’s state law.
SB 721: For Apartment Buildings
The SB 721 balcony law, also known as the California balcony inspection law SB 721, became effective January 1, 2019.
Who It Affects:
- Buildings with 3+ multifamily units
- This law applies to rental properties (not condos)
- Covers exterior elevated elements (EEE) over 6 feet above ground
What Needs Inspection:
- Balconies
- Decks
- Porches
- Stairways and walkways
These features must be made of wood or include wood structural components and be subject to weather.
Timeline:
- First inspection must be completed by January 1
- Re-inspection is required every 6 years
SB 326: For Condos and HOAs
Passed shortly after SB 721, the SB 326 balcony inspection law (aka Senate Bill 326 California) focuses on HOA-managed residential condominiums.
Who It Affects:
- Condominiums or common interest developments (CIDs)
- Governed by a homeowners association (HOA)
What Needs Inspection:
Similar to SB 721: balconies, decks, and other exterior elevated elements.
Timeline:
- The first inspection must be completed by January 1
- Follow-up inspections every 9 years
This law, sometimes referred to as the condo and townhome balcony inspection law, is intended to protect homeowners in shared communities.
HOA Responsibilities Under SB 326 Law
For HOA boards and managers, Senate Bill 326 in California outlines several ongoing responsibilities:
- Coordinating regular balcony inspections every 9 years, as mentioned above
- Providing written notices to homeowners of any required repairs
- Including EEE status updates in annual budget reports and reserve studies
Allocating reserve funding for these inspections is crucial. If negligence can be proven, ignoring them may expose the board to legal action from residents.
Why Were These Balcony Laws in California Passed?
The laws came in response to multiple high-profile balcony and deck collapses in California. Investigations revealed severe dry rot and poor construction standards in elevated structures—the result: urgent legislative reform.
The goals of balcony inspections in California mandates include:
- Preventing injury or death
- Ensuring regular maintenance
- Creating accountability for building safety
The California balcony law is a necessary step toward safer, more accountable housing for everyone.
What Do Balcony Inspections Involve?
During an inspection, licensed professionals evaluate load-bearing elements of elevated structures. This is sometimes called a deck safety inspection and typically includes:
- Checking for dry rot, rust, and decay
- Assessing structural stability
- Reviewing waterproofing and flashing
- Determining if repair or replacement is needed
Inspections must be completed by a licensed structural engineer, architect, or qualified building contractor.
Building owners typically have 120 days to complete repairs if repairs are required.
How Much Does a Balcony Inspection Cost?
The balcony inspection cost varies depending on the following:
- Number of units
- Accessibility
- Size and materials of the balconies
On average, expect to pay:
- $200–$500 per unit for inspection
- Additional fees for permits or engineer reports
- Repairs (if needed) vary greatly depending on the damage
It’s worth getting multiple quotes and asking whether the inspection can be bundled with other services to reduce the overall cost of balcony inspections, which California property owners are now required to complete.
Also, keep in mind that prices may continue to rise as the SB 721 balcony and SB 326 balcony bill deadlines approach.
Landlord Checklist: Balcony Law California Requirements
Here’s a simple landlord compliance checklist:
- Know if SB 721 or SB 326 applies to your property
- Schedule your inspection before the January 1 deadline
- Hire a licensed and approved inspector
- Keep documentation of the inspection for future audits
- Budget for repair timelines and costs
- Schedule re-inspections (6 or 9 years later)
Looking for help staying ahead of inspections? Learn more about Orange County property management and property management in the Inland Empire to simplify compliance.
What Happens If You Don’t Comply?
Non-compliance with the CA balcony inspection law can lead to:
- Fines (starting at $100/day)
- Building code violations
- Potential lawsuits if someone is injured
- Denial of insurance claims
In addition, cities and counties have started to enforce these regulations more aggressively. Don’t wait until it’s too late.
How to Find a Qualified Balcony Inspector
To stay compliant with the balcony law of California, always choose a licensed:
- General contractor (Class A or B)
- Architect
- Structural engineer
The contractor should also have experience with elevated exterior elements (EEE). Ask to see sample reports, references, and verification of licensing.
What to Do After the Inspection
Once you’ve had your balcony inspection, California requires you to:
- Review the findings with your inspector
- Schedule repairs promptly (within the 120-day window)
- Document every step for your records
- Notify tenants if repairs will disrupt usage
For HOAs, ensure the board retains a record of the inspection and includes timelines in meeting minutes. Transparency and documentation are key.
Insurance & Liability Considerations
One of the most overlooked aspects of the California balcony inspection law is how it affects liability and insurance. If an accident happens, landlords who neglect inspections or put off repairs run the risk of having their policies canceled or having their claims denied.
Major insurance carriers request documentation proving compliance with California’s balcony inspection law standards before renewing coverage. If you’re found non-compliant during a claim investigation, your liability exposure could skyrocket.
Property owners should:
- Notify insurance providers about completed inspections
- Keep physical and digital copies of reports and receipts
- Ensure tenants are informed about restricted access during repairs
Complying with the SB 721 balcony bill and SB 326 balcony inspection timelines isn’t just about avoiding fines, but financial protection.
Take the Next Step Toward Balcony Law Compliance
If you haven’t completed your California balcony inspection yet, now’s the time. These inspections are more than just a legal checkbox—they protect your residents, preserve property value, and limit your liability.
Delaying action can be costly. But with the right property management partner, staying on top of these requirements doesn’t have to be stressful. Contact us today to learn how TrueDoor can help you stay fully compliant with state housing laws. Your tenants (and your future self) will thank you.