With over 15 years of construction experience, ARM Balconies has become a trusted name in balcony inspections, structural integrity assessments, and compliance with California’s balcony laws. We understand the complexities of building codes and regulations, and we’re dedicated to providing building owners and HOAs with professional, efficient, and reliable services.
Our team, led by Civil Engineer Aaron Weiss and General Contractor Oren Leshem, brings a wealth of knowledge and practical know-how to every inspection. From constructing multi-story wood frame buildings to implementing environmentally-friendly Green Building projects, ARM Builders is more than equipped to handle all your inspection needs
SB-326 addresses the inspection of wood-framed exterior elevated elements (EEEs) in common interest developments like condominiums and multi-family housing. It was introduced to promote safety and prevent accidents similar to the 2015 Berkeley balcony collapse.
SB-326 applies to condominiums, townhomes, or multi-family housing with 3 or more units controlled by homeowners’ associations (HOAs). Inspections must provide a 95% confidence level with a +/- 5% margin of error.
Licensed structural engineers or licensed architects are authorized to perform inspections under SB-326. They must ensure a sufficient number of units are inspected and provide a detailed report to the Association and local code enforcement agency if needed.
The first inspection must occur by January 1, 2025, with subsequent inspections every nine years. Immediate threat findings must be reported within 15 days, and the reports must be incorporated into the HOA’s Reserve Study.
HOAs must plan ahead to select qualified professionals and understand the inspection process. The shortage of contractors and materials may lead to increased costs, making early compliance crucial.
Failing to comply with SB-326 may result in legal actions, fines, and the potential loss of insurance coverage. After January 1, 2025, ownership cannot be transferred without a completed inspection report. Conducting timely inspections and repairs can help avoid these problems and safeguard the safety of residents.
SB 721, known as the “Balcony Inspection Bill,” was enacted after a tragic balcony collapse in Berkeley, California, in 2015, resulting in six fatalities and seven injuries. The law mandates regular inspections of exterior elevated elements (EEEs) in multi-family dwellings to ensure safety and structural integrity.
SB 721 applies to owners of multi-family apartment buildings with three or more units. It specifically targets buildings with wood-framed exterior elevated elements, such as balconies decks, Walkways, stairways and railings that extend beyond exterior walls and are designed for human occupancy.
Qualified inspectors include licensed architects, civil or structural engineers, licensed building contractors with at least 5 years of experience, and certified building inspectors recognized by local jurisdictions. These professionals must adhere to a strict inspection process and provide a written, stamped, and signed report.
The inspection focuses on the current condition of exterior elevated elements, future performance expectations, and recommendations for further inspection. At least 15% of each type of EEE must be inspected for signs of deterioration, water intrusion, or structural compromise.
If immediate repairs are needed, the local enforcement agency must be notified within 15 days. Non-emergency repairs must be completed within 120 days, with extensions possible. Failure to comply can result in civil penalties ranging from $100 to $500 per day.
The initial inspection must occur by January 1, 2025, with subsequent inspections every six years. Timely inspections help in early detection of potential issues, reducing repair costs and ensuring occupants’ safety.
Building owners must maintain exterior elevated elements in a safe condition, schedule regular inspections, comply with repair requirements, and keep copies of inspection reports for at least two cycles. Failure to comply may result in penalties and legal liabilities.
If the inspection concludes that no emergency repairs or corrective work are necessary, no report submission is required, reducing administrative burdens. However, building owners should still monitor their EEEs for any changes or damages between inspections and report any issues to their inspectors as soon as possible.
Our mission is to empower property owners and managers with the insights and guidance they need to maintain safe, compliant, and efficient buildings. We believe in setting big goals...and achieving them.
