What Happens If You Fail an SB 721 Inspection in California?
Failing an SB 721 inspection doesn’t mean your property is shut down immediately, but it does trigger strict legal timelines, mandatory repairs, and potential penalties if you don’t take action.
SB 721 is a California law that requires multi-family buildings with 3 or more units to have their balconies, decks, stairs, walkways, and other exterior elevated elements (EEEs) inspected every 6 years.
If the inspector finds structural damage, water intrusion, rot, or safety hazards, the law requires the owner to fix the issue within a specific timeframe or face enforcement action and fines from the local authority.
For full SB 721 inspection support across California, Great Escape Service & Inspection helps property owners stay compliant from inspection to final sign-off.
What Happens If You Fail an SB 721 Inspection
If you fail an SB 721 inspection:
You will receive a failed inspection report
Repairs become legally mandatory
Permits must be requested within 120 days
Repairs must be completed within another 120 days after permit approval
The inspector must notify the city if you don’t comply
Fines, safety citations, or legal action may follow if ignored
What Triggers a Failed SB 721 Inspection?
An SB 721 inspection will fail if the inspector finds any condition that makes an exterior elevated element unsafe, decayed, structurally weak, or at risk of collapse, including:
Dry rot or deteriorated wood
Water intrusion or waterproofing failure
Rusted or corroded fasteners, bolts, brackets, or flashing
Loose or separated handrails or guardrails
Hidden internal damage detected by borescope
Load-bearing issues that compromise safety
Wooden Stairway & Walkway
What Happens Next? (Legal Timeline Breakdown)
| Step | Legal Requirement |
|---|---|
| 1. Failed Report Issued | The inspector delivers documented findings to the owner. |
| 2. Emergency Condition? | If a life-safety threat exists, the city must be notified within 15 days. |
| 3. Permit Deadline | The owner must apply for repair permits within 120 days. |
| 4. Repair Deadline | Once the permit is approved, the owner has another 120 days to finish repairs. |
| 5. Final Sign-Off | The inspector verifies the work and issues a compliance report. |
| 6. Non-Compliance | The city can issue fines, citations, or take enforcement action. |
Can You Ignore a Failed SB 721 Inspection?
No, Failure to comply can lead to:
City fines and legal notices
Code enforcement cases
Insurance denial or cancellation
Lawsuits in case of injury or collapse
Higher cost emergency repairs later
If a balcony, deck, or walkway collapses after a failed inspection was ignored, the owner may be held legally liable for damages and injuries.
Who Receives the Failed Report?
Building owner/property manager
HOA or management company (if applicable)
Local enforcement agency (if a serious hazard is found)
Does a Failed Inspection Mean You Need to Replace Everything?
Not always. Many properties only require targeted repairs, such as:
Replacing damaged joists, beams, ledgers, or posts
Reinforcing connections, brackets, and hardware
Waterproofing replacement
Guardrail or handrail repairs
Dry rot removal and rebuilding sections
Your SB 721 inspector will specify exact repairs needed, not guesswork.
How to Pass the Re-Inspection
Hire a licensed contractor/engineer experienced in exterior elevated elements
Use waterproofing materials approved for deck & balcony systems
Repair all items listed in the official report
Request a final inspection before deadlines expire
Need Repairs Too?
Many inspection companies only perform the inspection and leave owners to find separate repair contractors. At Great Escape Service & Inspection, we handle the entire process from the SB 721 inspection to repair coordination and final re-inspection, accompanied by a compliance report. This way, you stay compliant without having to deal with multiple companies or repeat the process.
Conclusion
Failing an SB 721 inspection is not the end, but it does start a legal process that you can’t ignore. Repairs, permits, and re-inspection become mandatory, and every step has a deadline.
The sooner you respond, the less you spend on repairs, fines, and potential legal issues. Staying proactive also protects your tenants, your property value, and your insurance coverage.
If you act quickly and work with Great Escape Service & Inspection, you can still achieve full compliance without stress and avoid future liability.
FAQs
Can I get fined for failing an SB 721 inspection?
Yes. If the repair deadlines are not met, the city may issue fines or enforcement orders.
What if the damage is severe?
If the hazard is “immediate risk,” the inspector is required to report it to the city within 15 days.
Does SB 721 apply to condos?
No. Condominiums fall under SB 326, not SB 721.
How often do I need an SB 721 inspection?
Every 6 years for qualifying multi-family buildings.
What buildings are exempt?
Single-family homes and duplexes are not covered by SB 721.
Who can perform an SB 721 inspection?
A licensed general contractor with A/B classification, structural/civil engineer, or architect.
Does the city come out to inspect?
No, the city relies on your certified inspector’s official report. However, if the independent inspector finds immediate safety hazards, they are required to report the issue to the local city enforcement agency, which will then likely take action
Do I need to file the report with the city?
Yes, most cities require the passed report or repair plan submitted to their portal.
