WHAT IS SB721 & SB326 INSPECTION ?

SB 721 (California “Balcony Inspection Law” – Apartments)

• Applies to multi-family buildings with 3+ units (typically apartments)

• Requires inspection of exterior elevated elements (EEEs) like:

• Balconies

• Decks

• Walkways

• Stairways (wood-framed, elevated)

• Must be inspected every 6 years

• Focus: Safety + structural integrity, especially wood rot, water damage, or failure risk

• Applies mainly to rental properties

SB 326 (HOA / Condo Inspection Law)

• Applies to condominiums and HOAs

• Requires inspection of the same types of exterior elevated elements

• Must be inspected every 9 years

• Inspections are arranged by the HOA board

• Includes a reserve study component for future repairs

Key Difference (Simple):

• SB 721 → Apartments (Landlord responsibility, every 6 yrs)

• SB 326 → Condos/HOAs (HOA responsibility, every 9 yrs)