California Senate Bills 721 (apartments) and 326 (HOA condominiums) require periodic inspection of exterior elevated elements such as balconies, decks, walkways, and stair landings. Los Angeles enforcement runs through LADBS, with first inspections largely due in 2025.
SB-721 applies to multifamily rental buildings with three or more units, requiring a licensed architect, engineer, or class B contractor to inspect at least 15% of each type of exterior elevated element supported by wood or wood-based products and mail a report to the owner. The first SB-721 inspection deadline was January 1, 2025; subsequent inspections every six years. SB-326 imposes parallel duties on common-interest developments under Civil Code §5551, with the first inspection due January 1, 2025 and reports filed with the HOA board. LADBS receives notices of significant safety threats and may issue substandard orders.
Skipping the inspection, missing the 2025 deadline, or ignoring an emergency repair order risks LADBS substandard designation, civil penalties under Health and Safety Code §17995, and personal liability for resulting injuries.
Los Angeles, CA
HOA boards in Los Angeles must follow the Davis-Stirling Common Interest Development Act (Civil Code §§4900-4935) for all meetings. Board meetings must be op...
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles enforces habitability standards through SCEP inspections, the California Civil Code implied warranty of habitability, and LAMC building codes. Un...
See how Los Angeles's balcony inspection program rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.