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California SB 721 Balcony Inspection Deadline: What Property Owners Must Know in 2025

The January 2025 deadline for SB 721 balcony inspections is here. Learn what multifamily property owners need to do to stay compliant and avoid penalties.

Emmett ClarkJanuary 15, 20256 min read

The SB 721 Deadline Has Arrived

As of January 1, 2025, California's Senate Bill 721 requires all multifamily buildings with three or more units to have completed their first exterior elevated element (EEE) inspections. This legislation, born from tragic balcony collapses, represents one of the most significant property safety mandates in California history.

What Must Be Inspected?

Under SB 721, the following exterior elevated elements require inspection:

  • Balconies and decks elevated more than six feet above ground
  • Stairways and walkways that are elevated and rely on wood or wood-based products
  • Associated waterproofing systems and drainage
  • Load-bearing components and their connections

    • Who Can Perform Inspections?

    Only licensed professionals are qualified:

  • Licensed architects
  • Licensed structural engineers
  • Licensed general contractors (with specific certifications)

    • Compliance Timeline

    Penalties for Non-Compliance

    Property owners who fail to comply face:

  • Civil penalties up to **$500 per day** for the first 30 days
  • Up to **$1,000 per day** thereafter
  • Potential personal liability for injuries
  • Issues with property insurance coverage

    • Action Steps for Property Owners

  • **Schedule inspections immediately** if not already completed
  • **Document everything** including inspection reports and repair timelines
  • **Budget for repairs** that may be identified
  • **Update your reserve study** to include ongoing inspection costs
  • **Notify tenants** of any necessary repairs affecting their units

    • For HOA communities, boards should ensure this is on the agenda for your next meeting and verify compliance with your property management company.

    As a California licensed real estate broker with over 20 years of experience, I've seen how proactive compliance protects both property values and resident safety. Don't wait for enforcement actions—act now.

    RequirementDeadline
    Initial inspectionJanuary 1, 2025
    Subsequent inspectionsEvery 6 years
    Emergency repairsImmediate
    Non-emergency repairs120 days

    Tags

    SB 721
    California
    Balcony Inspections
    Property Safety
    Compliance
    Emmett Clark

    Emmett Clark

    California Real Estate Broker #01408122

    Emmett Clark is a California licensed real estate broker with over 20 years of experience in property management, landlord advisory services, and HOA management consulting. He holds two Master of Arts degrees and founded HOACart to bring enterprise-level management tools to communities of all sizes.

    Learn more about Emmett →