If you are a homeowner or property manager in California, you may be wondering who can perform a balcony inspection under Senate Bills 721 and 326. These bills were enacted to prevent balcony collapses and other accidents by requiring regular inspections of certain types of balconies and other elevated structures. In this blog post, we'll explore the qualifications of inspectors who can perform these inspections and what you need to know to stay in compliance with the law.
What are Senate Bills 721 and 326?
Senate Bill 721 was signed into law in 2018, in response to the tragic 2015 balcony collapse in Berkeley that killed six people and injured seven others. The bill requires that all exterior elevated elements, including balconies, decks, stairways, and walkways, be inspected by a licensed structural engineer or architect every six years for buildings with three or more multi-family units.
Senate Bill 326 was signed into law in 2019, and it specifically addresses balconies and other elevated walking surfaces in multi-family buildings. The bill requires that a licensed professional inspect the balconies of buildings with three or more multi-family units and that any necessary repairs be made before the balcony can be used.
Who can perform a balcony inspection under SB 721 and SB 326?
Under SB 721, the inspections must be conducted by a licensed structural engineer or licensed architect. These professionals are trained to identify potential hazards and evaluate the structural integrity of buildings and other structures. They have the knowledge and expertise to ensure that balconies and other elevated elements are safe and comply with building codes.
Under SB 326, the inspection must be conducted by a licensed contractor, architect, or engineer. The inspector must have experience and knowledge in inspecting and evaluating the structural integrity of elevated walking surfaces. They must also have a thorough understanding of the applicable building codes and standards.
What should you expect during a balcony inspection?
During a balcony inspection, the inspector will look for signs of wear and tear, water damage, and other signs of structural damage. They may also test the strength and stability of the balcony by performing a load test. If any deficiencies are found, the inspector will provide a report detailing the repairs that need to be made.
If repairs are required, it's important to hire a licensed contractor to complete the work. Once the repairs have been made, the inspector will need to return to the property to ensure that the repairs have been completed correctly and that the balcony is safe to use.
In conclusion, if you are a property manager or homeowner in California, it's important to stay in compliance with Senate Bills 721 and 326. Hire a licensed professional to perform regular inspections of your balconies and other elevated structures, and ensure that any necessary repairs are made promptly. By doing so, you can help prevent accidents and ensure the safety of your residents and guests.
At EEEadvisor, we are a committed participant of CAI, providing a range of services including a complimentary visual inspection estimate, consultation without charge, and a free proposal from the leading professionals in waterproofing and structural repairs. Our prices are fixed, with no undisclosed costs, and our specialists are always accessible to address any concerns you may have.
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