Commercial Deck Inspection

Commercial Deck Inspections Phoenix

SB 721 for Apartment Complexes

Safety should always be the top priority, especially when it comes to apartments. With so many residents living in one space, it’s essential that any decks or raised surfaces are safe and in great condition. This new law, SB 721, requires apartment complexes to receive a professional inspection on their balconies and decks.

If the owner does choose to receive an inspection, it will include a detailed, visual assessment of all balconies in the apartment building, specifically looking at:

Waterproofing
Flashing systems
Drains
Doors
Siding
Railings
Stair
Handrails
Mounting Plates
Stucco
Beams
Structural Supports

If you choose not to receive an inspection, there are no immediate financial consequences. It may seem as though this law serves no purpose if there are no penalties for choosing to forgo an inspection. However, this simply means the owner is now responsible for inspecting and maintaining the safety of their decks, and are responsible for any future issues that may arise, including legal action taken against them for failure to keep their decks safe. This includes potential losses in the event of a claim against the building for a safety incident, as the building owner can no longer claim they weren’t aware of safety hazards.

To avoid issues down the line, it’s important to abide by SB 721, and get a proper inspection by an architect, engineer, or waterproofing expert.

SB 721 for Commercial Buildings

It’s so important to keep guests and residents safe, especially in commercial buildings. Many occupants and guests in one area make a commitment to safety that much more important. Under the new law, SB 721, commercial buildings must ensure that all decks and balconies are in good condition and don’t pose any threats to those who use them.

The building owner must have an inspection of any outdoor raised surfaces by a professional. This will include:

Waterproofing
Flashing systems
Drains
Doors
Siding
Railings
Stair
Handrails
Mounting Plates
Stucco
Beams
Structural Supports

There is no penalty if the commercial building owner does not receive an inspection. However, it poses financial and legal risks for the future. For instance, if a safety claim arises by a resident, the building owner cannot claim they weren’t made aware of the safety risks. By choosing to opt out of an inspection, they claim all responsibility for upkeep and are putting themselves at risk of legal action. SB 721 was put in place to emphasize the importance of safety, especially when it comes to decks, balconies, and their waterproofing systems. It’s essential to have a proper inspection by an architect, engineer, or waterproofing expert to keep your commercial building in top shape for years, and avoid any unnecessary costs.

SB 721, California Health and Safety Code §17973

A new law, SB 721, was enacted in California requiring the inspection of any exterior elevated decks and their waterproofing systems for all apartment complexes and commercial housing.

This law states that a detailed inspection by a professional, such as a waterproofing expert, general contractor, architect or engineer, must occur. However, if the owner refuses an inspection, there are no financial penalties, but they will be responsible for upkeep and safety of their decks, as well as any associated costs.

Let Us Be Your First Choice!

Protect your family and guests with a thorough deck inspection from WICR. We adhere to all California safety regulations, including SB-326 and SB-721