Why choose Great Escape Service and Inspection?

At Great Escape Service and Inspection, we bring over 30 years of industry expertise to every project. Here’s what sets us apart:

Trusted Industry Leaders: With three decades of experience, we’ve built a reputation for reliability, accuracy, and in-depth knowledge of California’s evolving building safety codes.

Complimentary Onsite Estimates: Before any inspection, we offer free onsite evaluations to help you identify and understand your property’s Exterior Elevated Elements (EEE) needs upfront.

Clear, Comprehensive Reporting: Our CA-SB721 and SB-326 inspection reports are thorough yet easy to understand, complete with detailed photo documentation highlighting key findings.

Support Through the Repair Process: If repairs are required, we’ll guide you through each step—working directly with your contractor or connecting you with trusted professionals.

Re-Inspections for Compliance: In the event your property doesn’t pass, we offer follow-up inspections for CA-SB721 and CA-SB326 to help ensure full compliance.

What is the difference between SB 721 and SB 326?

SB-721 applies to multifamily properties (e.g., apartment buildings) with 3 or more units. (Every 6 years) 

SB-326 applies to condominium buildings (HOA-managed properties) with 3 or more units. (Every 9 years)             

Both laws require the inspection of Exterior Elevated Elements (EEEs) such as balconies, decks, stairways, and walkways made of wood or materials susceptible to deterioration, that are six feet or more above ground and supported by wood or wood-based products.

What are "Exterior Elevated Elements" (EEEs)? EEEs include:

Balconies

Decks

Stairs

Walkways

Landings

Handrails

What is the deadline for the first inspection under SB 721 and SB 326?

SB-721: First inspection was due by January 1, 2026.

SB-326: First inspection was due by January 1, 2025. - DEADLINE PASSED!

 How often do SB 721 and SB 326 inspections need to be conducted?

SB-721: Every 6 years after the initial inspection.

SB-326: Every 9 years (not 6) after the initial inspection.

The inspection cycles vary slightly, so owners should track due dates carefully.

What are the penalties for non-compliance with SB 721 or SB 326?

Failure to comply may result in:

• Fines of up to $500 per day (under SB-721) after notice and failure to repair.

• Potential liability exposure if injuries or property damage occur due to ignored issues.

• Carriers may deny renewal of HOA’s (SB-326) property or liability insurance policy.

• New coverage may be denied if the inspection is not completed or if required repairs are not made.

• Some insurers may cancel the policy mid-term if they find out that an HOA (SB-326) is non-compliant.

If you’re found non-compliant, your HOA (SB-326) may be placed in a higher-risk category, resulting in substantially increased premiums.

Are you licensed to conduct business?

Great Escape Service and Inspections is fully insured and bonded to conduct business in the State of California.

What is the CA-SB721 Bill?

California Governor Jerry Brown signed SB 721, known as "The Balcony Inspection Bill," into law on September 17, 2018, in response to the tragic deaths of six UC Berkeley students in 2015 due to a balcony collapse at a downtown apartment complex. The law mandates that owners of multi-family apartment buildings with three or more units must conduct their first inspection by January 1, 2025. SB 721 officially took effect on January 1, 2019. 

SB 721 aims to enhance public safety by introducing mandatory inspections every six years for decks, balconies, and other elevated external structural elements in multi-family residential units.

Who can conduct a CA-SB721 Inspection?

The law specifies that inspections must be conducted exclusively by licensed professionals such as architects, civil or structural engineers, or licensed contractors holding B General Contractor or C5 Framing License. Inspectors are obligated to report any hazardous conditions that endanger life safety directly to the local building official.

What is the Annual Fire Escape Maintenance?

Stay compliant with safety regulations and ensure peace of mind with our Annual Fire Escape Ladder Service & Inspection. In accordance with CFC (California Fire Code) 1032.2.1.2 of the 2022 California Fire Code, we perform a thorough annual service and inspection to verify that all fire escapes and drop ladders are certified and in good working condition. We also ensure that all egress paths are clear, accessible, and free of obstruction—because safety should never be compromised.