SB326: Your HOA’s Structural Wake-Up Call | Ep. 68

The Latest on the Balcony Bill

In this episode of The Uncommon Area, host Matthew Holbrook is joined by Action Property Management’s Regional Director Ryan Darby and VP of Community Management Tad Black to discuss the wide-reaching implications of SB 326 (The Balcony Bill). While most HOAs know about the inspection deadline, few realize the financial domino effect a report can cause.

Episode Overview:

SB 326 requires HOA communities with wood-based elevated structures (like balconies) to undergo inspections every 9 years. The initial deadline is January 1, 2025. However, it’s not just about compliance anymore—it’s about lending, insurance, and protecting homeowner property values.

Topics Covered:

• What counts as a compliant SB 326 inspection
• The “stoplight” grading system: Red, Yellow, Green
• How ambiguous reporting can stop real estate transactions
• Lenders demanding repair scopes—even for non-inspected balconies
• Why associations may unknowingly be placed on the Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac blacklist
• What it means for refinancing, selling, and new buyers
• The ripple effect on insurance underwriting and premium hikes
• Proactive steps boards and managers should take now

Key Takeaway:

A completed inspection is not enough. HOAs must anticipate lender and insurer requests by securing repair scopes and documenting intent to address findings—even for non-critical items.

“You don’t want to find out you’re on the blacklist when a homeowner’s sale falls through. By then, it’s too late.”

Boards and managers, now is the time to revisit your SB 326 report and take action. Delaying may not only stop sales—it could impact your community’s reputation and financial stability.

Watch related episodes:

Are HOA Repair Projects Doomed for Failure?

Common Budget Failures

Reserve Studies Pt. 1

Reserve Studies Pt. 2