Who Can Perform SB-326 Inspections?

The inspector must be either a licensed structural Engineer or Architect. URC has experienced Inspectors on our team.​

How Much Of The Community Needs Inspecting?

The bill requires inspecting a “random sample” of  95% of the community EEEs . URC inspects 100% of your communities EEEs to ensure all concerns are discovered.​

Do All Communities Require These Inspections?

Associations with 3 or more units with “Exterior Elevated Elements” will require an inspection– This includes balconies, decks, stairways, walkways and railings that are supported by wood or wood-based products and are more than six feet above the ground.​

When Is The Inspection Deadline?​

The first inspection must be completed by the end of 2024  and must be completed every 9 years.  The written report must be stamped by the inspector.​

What Is The Inspection Looking For?​

The inspections are to confirm the community is in “generally safe condition” and “performing in accordance with applicable standards.”

If the inspector sees signs that the waterproofing system has been compromised, or that there is risk of damage to the load bearing components of the building, they are to use best judgment to recommend further inspections.

If there are any threats to safety of residents, the inspector must notify the association immediately and governmental inspection agencies within 15 days of issuing their report. The association must act immediately to prevent access to dangerous areas and take other appropriate preventive measures necessary to protect the safety of the residents.​

Why It Matters

In 2015 a group of young adults gathered in their Berkeley apartment to celebrate a birthday. What started as a joyous celebration ended with the death of five and injuries of seven more. The tragedy continued in January, when sadly, one of the injured died as a result of injuries sustained that night. 

The tragedy sparked the investigation of the balcony structure. While it was discovered that corners were cut by the construction company, the building’s management company was also found to be at fault. The primary cause of the collapse was concluded to be rot in the load-bearing elements of the balcony, however, the renters had reported indications of moisture build-up prior to the incident. It was reported that the management company did not handle this complaint with the proper care.

In 2017, settlements were paid out to the families with both the construction and management company being cited as at fault. As a result the state of California began the process of trying to prevent something like this from happening again. 

That’s what spurred the creation of SB-721 and SB-326.