As of January 1, 2026, California's Senate Bill 721 (SB-721) mandates that owners of multifamily residential buildings with three or more units and exterior elevated elements—such as balconies and stairways—must have these structures inspected by licensed professionals. This legislation aims to enhance safety and prevent tragedies resulting from structural failures.
In a recent episode of The Multifamily Podcast, I sat down with real estate expert Matt Sarro to delve into the specifics of SB-721. Matt emphasized the importance of compliance and shared insights on how investors and property owners can prepare. You can watch our detailed discussion below:
Understanding SB-721
SB-721 was enacted in response to incidents like the 2015 Berkeley balcony collapse, which tragically resulted in multiple fatalities. The law requires that exterior elevated elements in applicable buildings be inspected by qualified professionals to ensure structural integrity and safety. The initial inspection deadline was January 1, 2025; however, recent legislation (AB 2579) has extended this deadline to January 1, 2026, providing property owners additional time to comply.
Key Requirements of SB-721
Scope of Inspection: The law applies to buildings with three or more multifamily dwelling units and includes exterior elevated elements such as balconies, decks, porches, stairways, and walkways that are elevated more than six feet above ground level and rely on wood or wood-based products for structural support.
Qualified Inspectors: Inspections must be conducted by licensed architects, civil or structural engineers, general contractors holding specific licenses with a minimum of five years' experience, or certified building inspectors.
Inspection Frequency: After the initial inspection by January 1, 2026, subsequent inspections are required every six years to ensure ongoing compliance and safety.
Why Compliance Matters
Non-compliance with SB-721 can result in significant penalties, including fines ranging from $100 to $500 per day, and potential liens against the property. Moreover, failure to comply may impact insurance eligibility and increase liability risks.
Take Action Now
To assist property owners in meeting SB-721 requirements, Matt Sarro has compiled a list of qualified inspectors. To obtain this list, please fill out the form below.
Contact Matt Sarro
For further information or assistance, contact Matt Sarro at 916-616-5267, DRE# 01942991.
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