California Balcony Law: Key Points to Know Before the 2026 Deadline

🏢 California Balcony Inspection Law: What Property Owners in Los Angeles Must Know Before 2026

If you own a multi-family or HOA-governed property in Los Angeles County, it’s crucial to understand and comply with California's Balcony Inspection Laws—SB 721 and SB 326—to avoid hefty fines and ensure tenant safety. With deadlines approaching in 2026, now is the time to act.

Here’s everything you need to know to stay compliant and proactive.

🔍 1. Know Which Law Applies to Your Property

• SB 721: Applies to multi-family residential buildings (with 3 or more units) not part of an HOA.

• SB 326: Applies to Common Interest Developments (CIDs)—condos, townhouses, and other communities managed by HOAs.

Both laws require periodic safety inspections of certain elevated structures on your property.

👉 Read SB 721 Summary
👉 Read SB 326 Summary

📅 2. Initial Inspections Deadline: January 1, 2026

The original deadline of January 1, 2025, has been extended to 2026 under Assembly Bill 2579. However, don’t delay—inspector availability will become tight as the deadline nears.

🔹 Note: If your property was inspected between January 1, 2016, and January 1, 2019, you're already covered until 2026.

🛠️ 3. Hire a Qualified Inspector

Inspection requirements differ slightly depending on which law applies:

• For SB 721: A licensed architect, engineer, or general contractor with an "A," "B," or "C-5" license and at least 5 years of experience.

• For SB 326: Only a licensed architect or engineer may conduct the inspection.

💡 Tip: Always verify licenses via the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB).

🧱 4. What Needs to Be Inspected?

Inspectors must evaluate Exterior Elevated Elements (EEEs) such as:

• Balconies

• Decks

• Stairways

• Walkways

• Railings

• Porches
  …especially if they are 6 feet or more above the ground and supported by wood or wood-based materials.

At least 15% of each type of EEE must be inspected in the initial round.

Inspectors will assess:

• Load-bearing components

• Waterproofing systems

• Signs of rot, corrosion, or structural damage

⚠️ 5. Repair Requirements & Timelines

• If the inspector finds a serious safety hazard, they must report it to the local building department (such as LADBS in Los Angeles) within 15 days.

• Property owners then have:

  • 120 days to complete repairs for non-urgent hazards.

  • If not repaired within 180 days, the inspector must notify the city again, triggering a 30-day warning period.

👉 Visit LADBS Site for local guidance and permitting requirements.

📁 6. Keep Your Records

Maintain documentation for at least two full inspection cycles (which is 12 years total). This includes:

• Inspection reports

• Photos and findings

• Proof of repairs

These must be available upon request from local enforcement agencies.

🔄 7. Schedule Ongoing Inspections

• SB 721: Requires re-inspection every 6 years

• SB 326: Requires re-inspection every 9 years

Set calendar reminders now to avoid future non-compliance!

📨 8. Notify Tenants Respectfully

• Provide at least 24 hours' notice if inspections require interior access.

• Share copies of inspection results with all tenants within 15 days of receipt.

Tenants have the right to be informed about the safety and condition of their living space.

🚫 What Happens If You Don’t Comply?

Non-compliance comes with serious consequences:

• Fines of $100 to $500 per day

• Potential liens on the property

• Legal liability if an accident occurs due to a structural failure

✅ Final Recommendations for Los Angeles Property Owners

• Don’t wait—book your inspection early. As we near the deadline, qualified inspectors will become harder to schedule.

• Tackle small repairs proactively to avoid bigger costs later.

• Ask inspectors if they offer pre-assessments or early consultations for budgeting and planning.

• Work with a local professional who understands LA County codes and permitting processes.

Staying informed about regulations like California’s balcony law helps protect your investment and avoid costly surprises.
If you’re thinking about selling your property or need trusted guidance in the Los Angeles real estate market, I’d be honored to assist you!