Balcony inspection in the East Bay: SB 721 and SB 326
In the East Bay, apartment buildings with three or more units follow SB 721, with an inspection every 6 years. Condos and HOAs with three or more units follow SB 326, every 9 years. Both cover wood balconies, decks, stairs and walkways more than six feet above the ground. I cover Alameda and Contra Costa counties and inspect every building myself, as a California licensed Professional Engineer.
Which law applies to your building
| Your building | Law | How often | Who must act |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartments, 3 or more units | SB 721 | Every 6 years | Building owner |
| Condos and HOAs, 3 or more units | SB 326 | Every 9 years | HOA board |
The first SB 326 deadline was January 1, 2025. The first SB 721 deadline was January 1, 2026. If yours has not been done, it is late. Send me the address and I tell you where you stand, free.
Where I go
Alameda County and Contra Costa County. Section 604 is San Francisco only, so here it is the state laws. Realtors with an East Bay listing: send me the address before escrow and I tell you where the building stands.
What you get
- I inspect your building myself. No technician.
- A report stamped by a California Professional Engineer.
- A plain answer: pass, or exactly what must be fixed to pass, and why.
- A call from me right away if I find something unsafe.
- A free deadline watch, so the next cycle does not sneak up on you.
An East Bay client
I'm both an East Bay Realtor and rental property owner. Working with Vincenzo was great- from start to finish! I needed to get a SB 721 Inspection for a property that had 4 exterior elements ("balconies"). We talked on the phone, I told him about the property and he gave me a price. I met him on the day of the inspection, along with his contractor. Vincenzo had him make very small and strategic test holes. (which were very clean to patch up; they were not big sloppy holes made with a hammer). Vincenzo then conducted the examination and inspection. One area required a 15' ladder, so we needed a 2nd follow up appointment. Upon completion of the both inspections, he had the report written up and we met over zoom to discuss it and he made sure I understood the findings. He was professional from start to finish. I would definitely use him again, and recommend him! Thanks Vincenzo!
Questions
Which balcony laws apply in the East Bay?
The state laws. Apartments with three or more units follow SB 721 every 6 years. Condos and HOAs with three or more units follow SB 326 every 9 years. Section 604 is San Francisco only.
Which counties do you cover?
Alameda County and Contra Costa County. Not sure if your city is in range? Call me and ask.
I am a realtor with a listing. Can you help before escrow?
Yes. Send me the address. I tell you which law applies and whether a report exists or is due, so it does not surprise anyone at escrow.