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SB 326 inspection – what is it and who needs to do it
March 13, 2024When is SB 721 Inspection Deadline?
The Golden State is known for its beautiful coastlines, bustling cities, and diverse cultures. However, it’s also home to some of the strictest building codes in the country.
One of these regulations is the SB 721 balcony inspection deadline, which was put into effect after a tragic incident in 2015. In this article, we’ll discuss everything building owners need to know about this deadline and how they can ensure compliance.
Background
On June 16, 2015, a balcony on an apartment building in Berkeley collapsed during a birthday party, resulting in the death of six people and injuring seven others. The cause was determined to be dry rot due to water damage, and it was later discovered that the balcony had not been properly maintained or inspected.
In response to this tragedy, the California State Legislature passed California balcony inspection law, which requires all multi-family buildings with three or more units to undergo a balcony inspection every six years.
Balcony Inspection: When Is the Deadline?
SB 721 inspection deadline for building owners to comply with this new law is January 1, 2025. This means that all affected buildings must have their first inspection completed by this date and subsequent inspections every six years thereafter.
It’s important to note that the law applies to all balconies, regardless of when they were built or renovated. This means even newly constructed buildings must comply with the inspection requirement.
Inspection Process
The balcony inspection process involves a licensed professional examining the structure and components of the balcony, such as railings, flooring, and waterproofing. They will also assess for any signs of dry rot or water damage.
If any issues are found during the commercial inspection, they must be repaired within 120 days. Building owners are required to submit a report to their local building department detailing the results of the inspection and any necessary repairs.
Balcony Inspection Cost
The cost of a balcony inspection can vary depending on the size and complexity of the building, as well as the location. However, it’s estimated that the average cost is between $300 to $500 per balcony.
Non-compliance with the balcony inspection deadline can result in fines and penalties from local building departments. It can also put building owners at risk for a potential lawsuit if an accident were to occur due to negligence.
Importance of Compliance
The balcony inspection deadline is crucial in ensuring the safety of residents and guests in multi-family buildings. By identifying and addressing potential structural issues early on, building owners can prevent accidents and potentially save lives.
In California, the balcony inspection deadline is not just a matter of safety and property value—it’s also a legal requirement enforced under SB 721 Penalties.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the California balcony inspection deadline is a necessary measure to ensure the safety and integrity of multi-family buildings. Building owners must take this responsibility seriously and make sure to comply with all regulations by the 2025 deadline. Failure to do so can have severe consequences for both residents and building owners.
Let’s work together to keep California buildings safe and beautiful for all. We hope this article has provided valuable information about the balcony inspection deadline and encourages further understanding of building safety in general. Remember, compliance with balcony and deck regulations is crucial!