Understanding California Senate Bill 326: Ensuring the Safety of Existing Balconies

In 2019, the California State Legislature passed Senate Bill 326, also known as the Balcony and Deck Inspection Bill. This bill requires regular inspections of balconies and other elevated walking surfaces in condominiums and apartment buildings.

The bill was introduced in response to a number of incidents involving balcony collapses in California, including the tragic 2015 balcony collapse in Berkeley that killed six people. The bill seeks to ensure the safety of residents in multi-family buildings by requiring regular inspections of balconies and other elevated walking surfaces.

What does SB 326 require?

Under SB 326, all elevated walking surfaces in a multi-family building that are designed for human use, including balconies, decks, and elevated walkways, must be inspected at least once every nine years. The inspections must be performed by a licensed structural engineer, licensed architect, or qualified building inspector.

The inspections must include a visual inspection of the balcony or elevated walking surface, as well as any components that support it, such as beams, joists, and posts. The inspector must also test the balcony or elevated walking surface for strength, and check for any signs of decay, corrosion, or other damage.

If any deficiencies are found, the owner of the building must repair or replace the balcony or elevated walking surface within a reasonable time frame. The owner must also provide a copy of the inspection report to the tenants and to the local building department.

What are the benefits of SB 326?

The purpose of SB 326 is to ensure the safety of residents in multi-family buildings. Regular inspections can detect potential safety hazards before they become a serious threat to residents. By identifying and repairing any damage, the risk of a catastrophic failure, such as a balcony collapse, can be minimized.

In addition to improving safety, SB 326 can also help protect property values. If a balcony or elevated walking surface is found to be in need of repair, it is better to address the issue sooner rather than later. Neglecting needed repairs can lead to more extensive damage and higher repair costs in the future.

Who is responsible for complying with SB 326?

The owner of a multi-family building is responsible for complying with SB 326. Failure to comply with the law can result in fines and legal action.

In conclusion, California Senate Bill 326 requires regular inspections of balconies and other elevated walking surfaces in multi-family buildings to ensure the safety of residents. By detecting and repairing potential safety hazards, the risk of catastrophic failure can be minimized. Compliance with SB 326 is the responsibility of the building owner and failure to comply can result in legal action and fines.