California Senate Bill SB 721

A Brief History

SB721, a California law, was implemented primarily as a direct response to the tragic balcony collapse in Berkeley, California in 2015, which resulted in multiple fatalities, prompting the need for stricter regulations to ensure the safety of exterior elevated elements (EEEs) like balconies, decks, and stairs in multi-family dwellings by mandating regular inspections and maintenance protocols to prevent future incidents like this from occurring.

1. What is Required?

• Inspections of balconies, decks, stairways, and similar structures on buildings with 3 or more units.

• The inspections ensure these elements are safe and free from hazards like decay or structural issues.

2. Who Can Perform Inspections?

• Only licensed professionals like architects, engineers, certified building inspectors, qualified contractors with specific licenses, or certified ICC Inspectors. 

3. When Must Inspections Be Done?

• The first inspection is due by January 1, 2026.

• After that, inspections are required every 6 years.

• The inspection of buildings for which a building permit application has been submitted on or after January 1, 2019, shall occur no later than 6 years following issuance of a certificate of occupancy from the local jurisdiction and shall otherwise comply with the provisions of this section.

4. What Happens After Inspections?

• A detailed report is prepared and given to the property owner.

• If urgent repairs are needed, the report must be submitted within 15 days, and emergency repairs must be done immediately.

• Non-urgent repairs need to be completed within 120 days unless extended by the city or county.

5. What If Repairs Aren’t Made?

• Delays in repairs can result in fines of $100–$500 per day.

• Local agencies can place liens on properties for unresolved issues.

6. What About Selling Properties?

• Inspections must be done before selling buildings or converting them to condominiums.

7. Why Does This Matter?

• These rules are in place to keep tenants safe and ensure property owners maintain their buildings’ structural integrity.

8. Any Exceptions?

• Condominiums in common interest developments are generally excluded.

• Local governments can require stricter rules if they choose.

This law protects your tenants and ensures your building complies with safety standards, avoiding potential liabilities and penalties.