Introduction
California has enacted two critical laws—SB 326 and SB 721—to ensure the structural integrity and safety of elevated exterior elements such as balconies, decks, stairways, and walkways. These laws aim to prevent structural failures that could result in injuries or fatalities, following incidents where deteriorated balconies led to catastrophic accidents.
For property owners, homeowners’ associations (HOAs), and inspectors, these laws introduce new responsibilities and deadlines for mandatory inspections. Failing to comply can result in penalties, liability issues, and costly repairs down the line.
This blog will break down the key requirements of SB 326 and SB 721, the differences between them, and how Visualogyx is the fastest and easiest way to conduct compliant inspections.
What Is SB 326?
SB 326, enacted in 2019, specifically applies to Common Interest Developments (CIDs) such as condominiums and townhouses governed by a Homeowners’ Association (HOA). The law requires:
- Inspection of exterior elevated elements (EEEs), including balconies, decks, stairways, and walkways that are supported by wood or wood-based materials.
- Inspections to be performed by a licensed architect, structural engineer, or general contractor with relevant expertise.
- Inspections to be completed by January 1, 2026, with subsequent inspections every nine years.
- Inspection reports to be submitted to the HOA board and kept as part of the official records for at least two cycles (18 years).
The purpose of SB 326 is to identify potential structural weaknesses before they become safety hazards, ultimately ensuring the well-being of residents.
What Is SB 721?
While SB 326 focuses on residential developments managed by HOAs, SB 721 applies to multi-family residential buildings with three or more units that are not part of an HOA, such as apartment buildings.
Key requirements include:
- Inspection of EEEs, just like in SB 326, focusing on wood-supported balconies, decks, and exterior stairways.
- First inspection deadline of January 1, 2026, with inspections required every six years thereafter.
- Reports must be submitted to local building departments within 15 days if immediate safety concerns are found.
- Failure to comply can result in fines, repair orders, or even legal action.
SB 721 aims to protect tenants by ensuring landlords maintain structurally sound and safe elevated elements.
Key Differences Between SB 326 and SB 721
| Feature | SB 326 | SB 721 |
| Applies to | Condos, townhomes (HOA-managed) | Apartment buildings (3+ units) |
| Inspection Deadline | Jan 1, 2026 (every 9 years) | Jan 1, 2026 (every 6 years) |
| Who Conducts Inspections | Licensed architects, engineers, or general contractors | Licensed architects, engineers, or general contractors |
| Report Submission | Kept in HOA records | Submitted to local building department if hazards are found |
| Penalties for Non-Compliance | Possible legal liabilities for HOA | Fines, repair orders, or legal actions against landlords |
The Challenges of Compliance
Property owners, HOA managers, and inspectors face several challenges when complying with these new laws:
1. Managing Inspection Workflows
With thousands of buildings requiring inspections before the 2026 deadline, managing multiple inspections while ensuring compliance can be overwhelming.
2. Accurate and Secure Data Capture
Inspection reports must be meticulously documented, stored securely, and easily accessible. A lack of organized record-keeping can lead to non-compliance.
3. Standardized Reporting and Compliance Proof
Inspectors must provide detailed reports, sometimes including photographic evidence, assessment notes, and recommendations. A disorganized or inconsistent reporting process can slow down approvals and required repairs.
4. Ensuring Repair Follow-Ups
For buildings that require corrective action, tracking and verifying completed repairs is just as critical as the inspection itself.
Why Visualogyx Is the Best Solution for SB 326 & SB 721 Inspections
At Visualogyx, we provide an all-in-one digital inspection and reporting platform that simplifies SB 326 and SB 721 compliance. Whether you’re an inspector, property manager, or HOA representative, Visualogyx enables you to complete faster, more organized, and fully compliant inspections.
How Visualogyx Helps:
1. Fast and Easy Digital Inspections
With Visualogyx, you can quickly create customized digital inspection templates that align with SB 326 and SB 721 requirements. Instead of using pen-and-paper checklists, inspectors can capture data directly in the app, reducing errors and saving time.
2. Automated Report Generation
After completing an inspection, Visualogyx instantly generates a professional, standardized report that meets compliance guidelines. Reports include:
- Photographic evidence of EEEs
- Notes on findings and recommendations
- Automated timestamps and metadata verification
- Compliance checklists
3. Secure Cloud Storage and Easy Access
Inspection reports are securely stored and easily accessible at any time, ensuring compliance with record-keeping requirements. HOAs and landlords can access and retrieve inspection records effortlessly.
4. Real-Time Collaboration & Repair Tracking
Visualogyx enables seamless communication between inspectors, HOAs, property managers, and contractors. If repairs are needed, they can be assigned and tracked directly within the platform, ensuring completion and proof of compliance.
5. Mobile Accessibility for On-Site Inspections
With our mobile-friendly platform, inspectors can capture real-time data directly from the inspection site—no need for back-and-forth paperwork or manual report transfers.
6. Compliance Alerts and Reminders
Visualogyx ensures you never miss an inspection deadline. Automated alerts remind property managers and HOAs of upcoming re-inspections, helping maintain compliance with SB 326 and SB 721 timelines.
Visualogyx App Preview – SB 326 / 721 Balcony Inspection Checklist
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Conclusion: Get Compliant Today
The January 1, 2026, compliance deadline for SB 326 and SB 721 is fast approaching. Property owners, HOAs, and inspectors need a reliable, efficient, and compliant solution to manage these mandatory inspections.
Visualogyx is the easiest and fastest way to conduct SB 326 and SB 721 inspections—from capturing inspection data to generating reports, tracking repairs, and ensuring compliance.
Don’t wait until the last minute. Get started with Visualogyx today and streamline your SB 326 & SB 721 inspections!
