Understanding SB 721: What HOA and Apartment Owners Need to Know — And How Malki Construction Can Help
California’s SB 721—also known as the “Balcony Inspection Law”—requires multifamily property owners to inspect and maintain their buildings’ Exterior Elevated Elements (EEEs). These include balconies, decks, stairways, catwalks, and walkways made of wood or other materials that extend beyond the building’s walls and are elevated more than six feet above ground level.
This law was enacted in response to preventable structural failures that resulted in injuries and fatalities. It mandates inspections, timely repairs, and ongoing maintenance to ensure the safety and habitability of residential units.
Who Must Comply?
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Apartment Owners with buildings of three or more units.
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HOAs responsible for condominium complexes or similar multifamily dwellings.
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Landlords and Property Managers of qualifying properties.
The first round of inspections must be completed by January 1, 2025 for most properties, with re-inspections required every six years.
What Does SB 721 Require?
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Inspection by a licensed professional (engineer, architect, or contractor with proper certifications).
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Written Report filed with the local building department.
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Repair Deadlines:
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Immediate action for unsafe conditions.
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120 days to begin repairs for serious issues.
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Fines for noncompliance after 180 days.
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The Role of Malki Construction
Malki Construction specializes in inspection, repair, and reconstruction of SB 721-regulated EEEs. With decades of experience in California building codes and high-demand environments, Malki Construction delivers peace of mind and full compliance—without disrupting your residents more than necessary.
✅ Inspection Support
We work with licensed inspectors to evaluate your EEEs or provide our own certified inspectors to start the process. Infrared imaging, moisture detection, and poke tests are used before considering destructive testing.
🛠 Repair and Rebuild Services
If your inspection identifies damaged or unsafe EEEs, Malki Construction offers:
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Rot and termite remediation
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Ledger board replacement
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Waterproofing membranes
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Structural retrofits
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Complete rebuilds when necessary
All work complies with California Building Code, local ordinances, and SB 721 guidelines.
🧾 Documentation & Reporting
We ensure clear communication and compliance documentation, so HOAs and owners can submit required reports with confidence.
👷 Minimally Disruptive Execution
Our crews are trained to work with occupied buildings. We coordinate with property managers to minimize tenant impact and ensure legal notification procedures.
Why Choose Malki Construction?
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Fully bonded and insured
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Decades of local experience
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Reputation for professionalism and transparency
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Partner-level communication for HOAs and building owners
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Cost-conscious solutions that don’t cut corners on safety or compliance
Avoid Last-Minute Scramble
January 1, 2025, is approaching fast. Delays could result in fines, liability exposure, or tenant complaints. Partner with a firm that understands both the letter of the law and the realities of construction in California’s complex property market.