California’s Balcony Inspection Law: What You Need to Know

Let’s talk about balconies. They’re great for relaxing, hosting friends, or just soaking up the view. But, have you ever thought about what’s holding you up? No one likes to imagine their balcony giving way, but unfortunately, that’s exactly what happened in Berkeley back in 2015. It was a tragic wake-up call, and California stepped up with the Balcony Inspection Law to make sure our elevated spaces are safe.

If you’re a property owner, especially in San Luis Obispo County, this law is something you need to know about. Let’s break it down, no jargon, no stress—just the essentials.

California’s Balcony Inspection Law: What You Need to Know
What’s This Law About Anyway?
When Do I Need to Act?
Why Should I Care?
What Happens During an Inspection?
What If Repairs Are Needed?
What Happens If I Don’t Comply?
How Do I Stay Ahead?
Why This Matters for San Luis Obispo County
Final Thoughts

What’s This Law About Anyway?

Okay, here’s the deal. The Balcony Inspection Law came into play in 2018. It’s California’s way of saying, “Let’s not take chances with safety.” This law applies to multi-family buildings with three or more units. So, if you’re a landlord or property manager, you’re on the hook for making sure decks, balconies, walkways, and other elevated elements are in tip-top shape.

And we’re not talking about a quick glance over. The law requires a thorough inspection of any structure more than six feet off the ground that relies on wood for support. Basically, if it’s outside, elevated, and made of wood, it’s included.

When Do I Need to Act?

Here’s where the clock starts ticking. Your first inspection needs to be done by January 1, 2025. After that, you’ll need to schedule one every six years. Don’t wait until the last minute—these inspections can take time, especially if repairs are needed.

Why Should I Care?

Let’s get real. This law isn’t just about avoiding fines (though we’ll get to that later). It’s about keeping people safe. Regular inspections can uncover issues like rot, decay, or damage from insects—problems that might not be visible to the untrained eye.

Think of it this way: You wouldn’t skip maintenance on your car, right? The same goes for your property. Regular check-ups prevent bigger, more expensive problems down the road. Plus, a safe building means happy tenants, and happy tenants stick around.

What Happens During an Inspection?

Here’s how it works. You hire a qualified professional—someone who knows their stuff. This could be an architect, a structural engineer, or even a certified inspector. The key is that they’re independent and not employed by the local government.

They’ll look for anything that compromises safety:

Rot or decay in wood
Signs of insect damage
Structural weaknesses

If they find a problem, they’ll flag it, and you’ll have to take action.

What If Repairs Are Needed?

Don’t panic! Repairs are manageable, but you’ve got to follow the timeline. If the inspector finds something dangerous, you’ll need to restrict access to the area immediately and get it fixed ASAP. For less urgent issues, you’ll have 120 days to apply for a permit and another 120 days after that to complete the work.

What Happens If I Don’t Comply?

Here’s where it gets serious. Ignoring this law can cost you—literally. Fines range from $100 to $500 per day for non-compliance. And if you still don’t comply, local authorities can slap a lien on your property. Nobody wants that.

How Do I Stay Ahead?

The good news is staying compliant isn’t hard if you’re proactive. Here’s a game plan:

Schedule an Inspection: Get it done sooner rather than later.
Hire the Right Person: Make sure they’re qualified and independent.
Stay Organized: Keep inspection reports on file for at least 12 years.
Fix Issues Quickly: Don’t wait—repairs only get more expensive.

Why This Matters for San Luis Obispo County

Living in this area, we know how much the elements can mess with wood structures. Between the salty air and seasonal rains, balconies and decks take a beating. This law is an opportunity to protect your investment and ensure your property stays safe and sound.

Final Thoughts

Balconies and decks should be places where memories are made, not accidents. The Balcony Inspection Law might feel like one more thing on your to-do list, but it’s worth it. Taking care of these inspections shows you care—about your tenants, your property, and your community.

So, don’t wait! Start planning your inspection now. If you’re unsure where to begin, Rogall + Co. is here to help. We’ve got the experience and know-how to guide you every step of the way. Let’s keep San Luis Obispo County safe, one balcony at a time.