Balcony inspection in San Francisco: SB 721, SB 326 and Section 604
San Francisco buildings can owe two balcony inspections at once. Section 604 applies citywide every 6 years, with an affidavit filed with the Department of Building Inspection. Apartments with three or more units also follow SB 721 every 6 years. Condos and HOAs also follow SB 326 every 9 years. I do both in one visit, and I file the affidavit for you. I live and work in Marin, and I walk every building myself.
Which rules apply to your building
| Your building | What applies |
|---|---|
| Apartments, 3 or more units | SB 721 every 6 years, plus Section 604 every 6 years |
| Condos and HOAs, 3 or more units | SB 326 every 9 years, plus Section 604 every 6 years |
| Other buildings with balconies, exterior stairs or fire escapes | Section 604 every 6 years |
Not sure which row is yours? Send me the address. I check the city record and tell you what is due, free.
One engineer, one visit
- I inspect your building myself. No technician, no handoff.
- One visit covers Section 604 and the state law that applies.
- Reports stamped by a California Professional Engineer.
- The Section 604 affidavit prepared and filed with the Department of Building Inspection.
- A plain answer: pass, or exactly what must be fixed to pass, and why.
Selling in San Francisco
When a condo sells, the buyer must get the latest SB 326 report. Buyers and lenders also ask about Section 604 status. Find out before escrow, not during it.
Around the Bay Area
I also inspect in Marin and Petaluma, on the Peninsula and in the South Bay, and in the East Bay. Section 604 is San Francisco only. SB 721 and SB 326 apply everywhere in California.
A San Francisco client
It has been an absolute pleasure to work with Vincenzo at Deck Check. He recently handled both the SB 326 and SF Section 604 inspections for my clients for a 5 unit residential building in San Francisco and his level of service was outstanding. Vincenzo was timely, highly accessible, and incredibly patient throughout the entire process. What really set him apart was his ability to walk the clients through the reports and next steps in a manner that allowed everyone to make informed decisions. He was also extremely helpful in connecting us with reputable vendors to handle the necessary work. His calm demeanor and thoughtful approach to addressing difficult issues were invaluable, especially for clients who were actively preparing to sell their property. I highly recommend Vincenzo and Deck Check for anyone needing thorough, reliable structural inspections!
San Francisco questions
Which balcony laws apply in San Francisco?
Up to two at once. Every building with exterior exit elements follows Section 604 every 6 years. Apartments with three or more units also follow SB 721 every 6 years. Condos and HOAs with three or more units also follow SB 326 every 9 years.
Can you do Section 604 and SB 721 or SB 326 in one visit?
Yes. I inspect once, write the reports, and file the Section 604 affidavit with the Department of Building Inspection.
How do I find my Section 604 due date?
It is on your building's city record. Send me the address and I look it up for free.
Do you cover the rest of the Bay Area?
Yes. Marin, Sonoma (Petaluma), Alameda, Contra Costa, San Mateo and Santa Clara counties. Just outside? Call me and ask.