Balcony Assurance – California EEE Inspections

What is SB721?

California’s Senate Bill 721 (SB 721) requires owners of apartment buildings with three or more units to have their exterior elevated elements (EEE)—like balconies, decks, and stairs—inspected by a qualified professional every six years.

What is SB 326?

This is a second balcony inspection bill specifically requires homeowners’ associations (HOAs) for condo complexes with wooden balconies, decks, stairs, and walkways six feet or more above ground to have them inspected by a qualified professional.

When is California’s Balcony deadline?

The deadline is January 1, 2026. All qualifying properties must complete a balcony inspection under SB721/SB326.

How does VERTEX help California property owners meet the Balcony deadline?

By January 1, 2026, all qualifying multifamily properties must comply with SB721/SB326. VERTEX property owners meet this deadline by providing fast, compliant and fully documented services and resources:

• Certified architects, engineers, and contractors on every job
• Cutting-edge diagnostic testing and forensic inspection methods
• Detailed reports with concise, actionable insight for proactive owners and managers
• Minimal disruption to tenants or timelines

Do owners need to worry about balcony safety outside of California?

Smart owners are extending balcony inspections to their full portfolios – not just for compliance, but for proactive risk management. Many VERTEX clients are shifting focus from California-specific requirements to a portfolio-wide strategy. They’re using the same Balcony Assurance framework to assess buildings in other states – not because the law requires it, but because smart property owners know that keeping properties and people safe doesn’t stop at the borders.

Can VERTEX provide inspection services outside California?

Yes. VERTEX performs EEE inspections and structural consulting nationwide, including Florida, Texas, Colorado, South Carolina, New York, and Washington.

What is meant by ‘Elevated Exterior Elements’?

Elevated Exterior Elements (EEE) are common accessories and amenities that multifamily and condominium residents enjoy, and include structures such as balconies, decks, stairs and elevated walkways.

Why are proactive balcony inspections important?

VERTEX clients are expanding Balcony Assurance inspections to cover their entire portfolios. That’s because proactive inspections:

• Reduce liability exposure
• Prevent costly surprises
• Standardize maintenance and capital planning
• Demonstrate true fiduciary responsibility

What makes VERTEX’s balcony inspection trustworthy?

VERTEX’s Balcony Assurance Program goes beyond a “check the box” approach. VERTEX brings:

• Certified architects, engineers, and contractors on every job
• Cutting-edge diagnostic testing and forensic inspection capabilities
• Detailed reports that give proactive building owners and property managers concise, actionable insight on issues that need addressing
• Minimal disruption to tenants and timelines

What does an EEE inspection cost?

Costs depend on the property’s size and number of EEEs.