California Law SB-326 requires an inspection by a licensed professional, of any exterior elevated element, such as condominium decks and walkways, to ensure its safety and structural integrity.
This new balcony law is specific to condominiums controlled by residential homeowners’ associations. It applies to any building containing 3 or more multi-family dwelling units.
Balconies are not the only thing that must be inspected under this new law. Any elevated structure which will support weight is also included. This covers:
The initial inspection must be completed no later than January 1st, 2025. After this, a re-inspection must occur every 9 years or sooner.
Once the inspection is complete, a report must be submitted to the homeowners association. If the owner chooses not to have the necessary repairs or maintenance done, the board will be notified, and the owner will be held responsible for any future costs, including potential lawsuits.
A certified professional must be the one to conduct the inspection. This includes architects and engineers. However, because the associated waterproofing systems must also be inspected, most architects and engineers also employ a qualified waterproofing expert with a minimum of 10 years experience.
The final report will advise the owner on repairs or maintenance that need to be made to ensure the safety of the deck or walkway. This will be passed on to the homeowners association, to allow them to assess the damages and budget for any necessary repairs.
There are two types of repairs that may need to be made:
Ensuring your property is safe is a priceless investment. With Deck Inspectors, you’ll have the peace of mind knowing your condo is inspected by qualified waterproofing experts. All of our inspections include:
To learn more about SB-326, get advice, or request an inspection by an elite team of waterproofing experts, contact us today.
