Balcony Inspections

Balcony and Deck Inspections

In 2018, Senate Bill 721 was passed. This bill requires an inspection of exterior elevated elements (EEE) and associated waterproofing elements, including decks and balconies, for buildings with 3 or more multifamily dwelling units.

The bill would require the inspections, including any necessary testing, to be completed by January 1, 2025, and would require subsequent inspections every 6 years.

The bill would require that if the inspection reveals immediate hazard conditions to the safety of the occupants, emergency repairs be undertaken with notice given to the local enforcement agency.Non-emergency repairs would be required to be completed within 120 days.

The bill would require any building that is proposed for conversion to condominiums to be sold to the public after January 1, 2019, to have the required inspection conducted prior to the first close of escrow.

Frequently Asked Questions FAQs

1. Why do we have to do this?

“The purpose of the inspection is to determine that exterior elevated elements and their associated waterproofing elements are in a generally safe condition, adequate working order, and free from any hazardous condition caused by fungus, deterioration, decay, or improper alteration to the extent that the life, limb, health, property, safety, or welfare of the public or the occupants is not endangered.”

The new bill was created following the tragic death of six people in a Berkeley apartment building when their balcony collapsed. The cause was said to be due to the structural decay of the wood framing that supported the balcony.

2. What are Exterior Elevated Elements?

“Exterior elevated element means the following types of structures, including their supports and railings: balconies, decks, porches, stairways, walkways, and entry structures that extend beyond exterior walls of the building and which have a walking surface that is elevated more than six feet above ground level, are designed for human occupancy or use, and rely in whole or in substantial part on wood or wood-based products for structural support or stability of the exterior elevated element.”

3. What are waterproofing elements?

“Associated waterproofing elements include flashings, membranes, coatings, and sealants that protect the load-bearing components of exterior elevated elements from exposure to water and the elements.”

Call Retrofit1 today to schedule your balcony and deck inspections or repairs or for information on ADU development, a free estimate in ADU engineering, retrofit engineering & construction, and engineering re-designs to reduce the scope and cost of construction.

1-844-4Retro1 (473-8761).