Senate Bill No. 721 (SB 721), which went into effect on January 1, 2019, requires the inspection and repair of balconies, decks, and stairs that rely in whole or in substantial part on wood structural support (exterior elevated elements, or 3E) in multi-family residential buildings with three or more dwelling units. This bill, commonly referred to as the “deck and balcony inspection” bill, was initiated in response to a balcony collapse in Berkeley, California in June 2015, which resulted in six fatalities. The collapse was found to have been caused by wood decay (rot) of the structural wood framing that supported the balcony. SB 326, a similar bill for condominiums, was signed into law on August 30, 2019.

Does my building have 3Es?
I have 3Es requiring inspection.
What if I have damages?
How do I apply for a building permit?
What if I don't comply?