Inspections of Balconies, Decks, and other Exterior Elements
Exterior elevated elements and their associated waterproofing at any residential building with 3 or more units must be inspected by a qualified inspector to verify that they are in good working condition, free of decay and other hazards, and safe for residents and visitors.
Extended: Assembly Bill 2579 now extends the inspection deadline for Exterior Elevated Elements (EEE) originally set by SB 721 (Apartments) to January 1, 2026.
Per Senate Bill 326 (Common Interest Developments), inspections are still required of Exterior Elevated Elements (EEE) at Condominiums and other common interest developments by January 1, 2025.
EEE inspections, as well as any required maintenance or repair identified after inspection, are the responsibility of the building owner or homeowners association (HOA).
Step 1: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Building owners, HOAs, and inspectors are advised to read all FAQs.
Step 2: Exempt or Inspection Required?
To avoid a Notice of Violation and fee charges, if your building is Exempt, then building owners and HOAs must complete the Exemption Form (you will receive email confirmation).
Reasons for exemption:
- There are no exterior balconies, decks, stairways, walkways, railings, and entry structures that have a walking surface more than six (6) feet above ground level and rely on wood or wood-based products for structural support or stability.
- There are more than two units on the lot but no more than two units in any building.
- The buildings on the lot are a single-family dwelling or duplex.
Step 3: Inspection Form
If Inspection is Required, then please download the fillable Inspection Form (please also read above Frequently Asked Questions): Exterior Elevated Elements (EEE) Inspection Form(PDF, 274KB)
- NOTE: All provisions of California Building Code apply, regardless of third-party inspector's report.
Additional References