Senate Bill 721 (Chapter 445, Stats. 2018)"Balcony Law"
Exterior elevated elements must be inspected every 6 years, with the first being prior to January 1, 2026. (Yes there was an extension granted in September 2024 to give another year to get inspection completed.) Zebra Construction is taking a proactive approach to help make the process easy and stress free by giving you options, and enough time to plan.
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The major catalyst for this senate bill was due to the collapse of a balcony in Berkley, CA which collapsed and 6 students died. A 7th died due to her injuries 7 years later. This building was barely 10 years old.
Senate Bill 326 "Balcony Law" - For Condos
Zebra Construction does not currently work with HOAs or Condos, but we recommend the following firms:
Pacific Engineering
22750 Hawthorne Blvd Ste 253
Torrance, CA 90505
(858) 888-3804
June 16, 2015 shortly after midnight 6 people died and seven others were injured after a balcony on which they were standing collapsed.
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Overwhelming evidence pointed to dry rot leading the balcony to become structurally compromised.
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Improperly maintained waterproofing membranes and lack of rain gutters and improper flashing can expedite loss of structural integrity in raised walkways.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
What to expect with Zebra Construction?
Call Zebra Construction & set up an SB721 consultation. We will visit the property and give a cost for any repairs which can be seen with out any destructive testing, a work order to install inspection vents and the cost of the inspection report.
Work Order & Plan. Zebra Construction can install inspection vents which will give access to load bearing elements and can be used for future inspections. Once vents are installed, a more accurate construction price can be given.
Owner then completes repairs with Zebra Construction, or another contractor. Once repairs are completed, Zebra Construction will issue final SB721 inspection report.
6 years from the inspection date, the exterior elevated elements must be inspected again.
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If only 15% were inspected, a different 15% should be inspected this time.
Inspection reports must be kept for 2 inspection cycles. Inspection cycles are 6 years, so up to 12 years.
Benefits of Vents
Provide Access for Future SB721 Inspections
Stainless Steel
Can Be Painted
Fire Rated With Intumescent Strips
Meeting current codes & ASTM testing
Provides ventilation to joist bays
What the Zebras are Up to:
