SB 721 Balcony & Deck Inspection Services In California
Great Escape Service & Inspections provides professional SB 721 / E3 inspection services across California for apartment and multifamily properties subject to California’s Exterior Elevated Element requirements.
If you own or manage a building with three or more dwelling units, compliance isn’t just recommended; it’s required.
What Is an SB 721 Inspection?
California SB 721 / E3 inspection, also known as California Senate Bill 721, is a six-year structural inspection for qualifying multifamily apartment buildings with three or more dwelling units. It evaluates wood-based Exterior Elevated Elements (EEEs) that are structurally attached to the building and located approximately six feet or more above ground, including balconies, decks, walkways, stairways, handrails, and guardrails.
The inspection process includes at least 15% borescope inspection of each applicable EEE type to help assess concealed structural conditions. SB 721 took effect on January 1, 2019, with the initial inspection deadline of January 1, 2026, and inspections must be performed by qualified professionals permitted under California law.
What Our SB 721 Inspection Covers
Great Escape Service & Inspections evaluates qualifying Exterior Elevated Elements (EEEs) for structural condition, water intrusion, moisture-related deterioration, wood rot, and other visible concerns that may affect safety or long-term performance.
SB 721 Inspection Reports & Visual Documentation
Following the inspection, we provide a detailed SB 721 inspection report with photographic evidence, giving property owners and managers a clear record of observed conditions and supporting the next steps for California SB 721 compliance.
Why Choose Us for Your SB721 Inspection
Your Compliance Partner Near You Since 1987
Great Escape Service & Inspections provides SB 721 compliance inspections throughout California, helping property owners and managers document EEE conditions, understand inspection findings, and determine the appropriate next steps. Our team specializes in California's codes and inspection compliance requirements, ensuring your property remains safe and up to standard.
The initial California SB 721 inspection deadline was January 1, 2026, so qualifying multifamily properties that have not completed their required inspection should address compliance promptly.
Protect Against Water Damage
Our inspections focus on identifying water intrusion, a common issue that compromises the structural safety of wood-based decks, balconies, walkways, and guardrails.
Trusted by Property Owners Across California
With a steadfast commitment to professionalism, reliability, and exceptional customer service, we have established ourselves as a trusted partner for property management companies and homeowners across California, including the Bay Area and Los Angeles. Our reputation is built on delivering consistent results and exceeding expectations every step of the way.
How Much Does an SB 721 Inspection Cost?
The cost of an SB 721 inspection varies based on the property and the scope of the required evaluation. Great Escape Service & Inspections provides customized pricing for qualifying multifamily properties throughout California, so owners and property managers can receive a quote based on their specific inspection needs.
Request an SB 721 Inspection Quote
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Non-compliance with California SB721 can lead to significant fines, legal exposure, and serious safety risks. With the compliance deadline rapidly approaching, now is the time to act. Schedule your inspection today to ensure safety, meet legal requirements, and protect your property with confidence.
SB 721 Inspection Near You in California
Looking for a professional SB 721 inspection near you? Great Escape Service & Inspections provides professional inspection services for qualifying multifamily properties throughout California. Our statewide coverage makes it easier for property owners and managers to schedule a reliable inspection near you, receive clear documentation, and move forward with confidence on SB 721 compliance.
Schedule your inspection today
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Buildings in California with three or more multifamily dwelling units fall under the mandate of CA-SB721, commonly referred to as the Balcony and Deck Inspection. These regulations necessitate the inspection of all wooden Exterior Elevated Elements (EEE) within such structures.
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During the inspection process, the following aspects of Exterior Elevated Elements (EEE) are scrutinized in accordance with California code:
Condition of loading bearing components
Condition of associated waterproofing elements
Evaluation of expected future performance and projected service life
Inspectors begin by visually assessing for apparent signs of water intrusion issues. Further, more detailed inspections may involve the use of tools such as moisture meters or borescopes to pinpoint the source of moisture intrusion.
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The inspection requirement stipulated by CA-SB721 mandates examining a minimum of 15% of each type of EEE, including wooden balconies, stairways, walkways, handrails, and guardrails.
The duration of inspections for exterior balconies, decks, stairs, handrails, and guardrails varies based on several factors:
Accessibility to each element
Whether the element is exposed or concealed by soffit
Elevation of the element from the ground
Absence of obstructions such as patio furniture on balconies/decks
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The difference between SB721 and SB326 is that one affects apartment buildings, while the other affects condominiums and homeowners’ associations.
CA-SB721 is required every six (6) years and CA-SB326 is required every nine (9) years.
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Licensed general contractor, certified building inspector, architect or engineer.
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Inspections must be conducted by a licensed structural engineer or architect only.
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The owner of the building requiring corrective work to an exterior elevated element that, in the opinion of the inspector, does not pose an immediate threat to the safety of the occupants, shall apply for a permit within 120 days of receipt of the inspection report. Once the permit is approved, the owner of the building shall have 120 days to make the repairs unless an extension of time is granted by the local enforcement agency.
If the owner of the building does not comply with the repair requirements within 180 days, the inspector shall notify the local enforcement agency and the owner of the building. If within 30 days of the date of the notice the repairs are not completed, the owner of the building shall be assessed a civil penalty based on the fee schedule set by the local authority of not less than one hundred dollars ($100) nor more than five hundred dollars ($500) per day until the repairs are completed, unless an extension of time is granted by the local enforcement agency.
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