What do you need to know about California deck inspection requirements? | Ep. 12

In this episode of Uncommon Area, host Matthew Holbrook sits down with Ryan Darby, Regional Manager at Action Property Management, to discuss the critical details of California Senate Bill 326, also known as the Balcony Bill. They delve into the specific requirements for mandatory inspections of exterior, elevated elements in condominium and townhome communities.

Overview of SB 326

• Applicability: SB 326 applies to exterior, elevated elements of a condominium or townhome community that are 6 feet or more above the ground, made predominantly of wood, and protrude from the main structure. The buildings must contain three or more units.
• Examples of Structures: Balconies, staircases, and elevated walkways.

Inspection Requirements

• Who Must Inspect: A licensed structural engineer or architect.
• Types of Inspections:
  • Visual Inspection: Conducted on 75% to 85% of the community, assessing visible parts of the structure like the deck’s exterior, connections to the building, and support posts.
  • Physical Inspection: Required for 15% to 25% of the community, especially where wood structures are enclosed by stucco, necessitating small openings to inspect internal structural elements.

Inspection Criteria

• Inspection Focus: Checking structural integrity, railings (ensuring gaps are no more than 4 inches), and drainage (especially seals around deck drains).
• Timeline: The bill was passed in 2019 with a compliance deadline of January 1, 2025.
• Frequency: Inspections must be repeated every nine years.

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