SB 326 Inspection Services for California HOAs & Condominiums

Great Escape Service & Inspections provides professional SB 326 inspection services throughout California for qualifying condominium communities and Homeowners Associations (HOAs). We help associations move through the inspection process with professional evaluation, clear reporting, and practical follow-up support.

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What Is an SB 326 Inspection, and Does It Apply to Your HOA or Condo?

California SB 326, codified under Civil Code §5551, establishes inspection requirements for qualifying condominium projects within common interest developments. It applies to buildings containing three or more multifamily dwelling units and to Exterior Elevated Elements (EEEs) for which the association is responsible for maintenance or repair.

Required inspections occur at least once every nine years. Exterior Elevated Elements include applicable load-bearing components together with their associated waterproofing systems. Relevant wood-based components may include balconies, decks, stairways, walkways, and railings with walking surfaces more than six feet above ground.

This means SB 326 can apply to an HOA that governs a qualifying condominium project; it does not automatically apply to every type of HOA property.

Who Can Perform an SB 326 Inspection?

An SB 326 qualified inspector must be a licensed Structural Engineer or Architect. Civil Code §5551 requires the professional to conduct a reasonably competent and diligent visual inspection of the required sample of Exterior Elevated Elements. SB326 Bill

Great Escape’s SB 326 inspections are performed by a licensed Structural Engineer or Architect as required under Civil Code §5551.

What Does an SB 326 Balcony & EEE Inspection Include?

An SB 326 balcony inspection evaluates applicable wood-based Exterior Elevated Elements, focusing on their load-bearing components and associated waterproofing systems.

The evaluation considers the physical condition of these components and may identify signs of moisture intrusion, water-related damage, deterioration, or wood rot that could affect structural performance or safety. Associated waterproofing systems can include flashings, membranes, coatings, and sealants that protect structural components from water exposure.

If water or moisture may have entered the waterproofing system and caused damage, the inspector may recommend a closer inspection.

How SB 326 Statistical Sampling Works

SB 326 does not automatically require inspection of every Exterior Elevated Element. Instead, the inspector creates a random list of applicable elements and evaluates a statistically significant sample.

Under California Civil Code §5551, the sample must be large enough to provide 95% confidence that the results reflect the overall condition, with a margin of error of no more than ±5%.

The required sample size depends on how many applicable Exterior Elevated Elements are present and must meet SB 326’s statistical standard.

What Is Included in an SB 326 Inspection Report?

After the inspection, the inspector prepares a written SB 326 inspection report to document the condition of the evaluated components. The report addresses the current physical condition, expected future performance, remaining useful life, and any recommendations for necessary repair or replacement.

The inspector must sign or stamp the report, present it to the association board, and incorporate it into the reserve study required under Civil Code §5550.

Great Escape also provides photographic documentation with its SB 326 inspection reporting, giving the association a clear visual record of observed conditions.

Why HOAs Choose Great Escape for SB 326 Inspections

Great Escape Service & Inspections offers a practical inspection process that supports HOA boards and property managers from the initial estimate through any required follow-up.

Free On-Site Detailed Estimates: Understand the expected inspection scope and pricing before moving forward.
Professional SB 326 Inspection Support: A licensed Structural Engineer or Architect completes inspections as required.
Re-Inspection After Repairs: When corrective work is completed, Great Escape can return to evaluate the repaired areas.
Trusted Contractor Referrals: If repairs are needed, we can connect you with qualified contractors while keeping Great Escape focused on inspection services.

What Happens If You Miss the SB 326 Inspection Deadline?

The initial SB 326 inspection deadline was January 1, 2025, for properties subject to that original deadline. Civil Code §5551 places responsibility for meeting the applicable inspection requirements on the association. SB326 Bill

If an inspection that was required for your condominium project has not been completed, the association should address the outstanding requirement promptly. Great Escape can help schedule the required professional evaluation and advance the SB 326 compliance process.

Schedule Your SB 326 Inspection

SB 326 Inspection Near You in California

Need an SB 326 inspection in California? Great Escape Service & Inspections provides statewide support for HOA and condominium communities, helping associations manage the inspection process efficiently and with clear communication.

From scheduling and property-specific estimates to inspection coordination and follow-up, our team helps keep the process organized from start to finish.

Schedule Your SB 326 Inspection in California

Ready to move forward with your property’s SB 326 inspection? Great Escape makes it easy to get started with a free on-site detailed estimate and a clear path from scheduling through completion.

Request a quote today to discuss your property and the next steps for your inspection.

Schedule an SB 326 Inspection

No. SB 326 requires the least intrusive inspection method necessary, although further inspection may be recommended if conditions warrant it.
The association must notify the local code enforcement agency immediately and submit the report within 15 days. Immediate safety measures may also be required.
The association must keep SB 326 inspection reports for two inspection cycles.
For qualifying buildings with permit applications submitted on or after January 1, 2020, the first inspection is due within six years of the certificate of occupancy.
The cost of an SB 326 inspection varies by property and inspection scope. Contact Great Escape Service & Inspections for a property-specific SB 326 inspection quote.