California §5551

Balcony and elevated-element inspections

Statute:
California §5551 · Chapter CIV-7 (Davis-Stirling Act Ch. 7 — Finances and Reserves)
Topic:
Assessments & Finance · SB 326
Applies to:
HOA associations

Condominium buildings with 3 or more units must have a licensed architect or structural engineer inspect load-bearing components and associated waterproofing of exterior elevated elements (balconies, decks, stairways, walkways) more than 6 feet above ground. First inspection was due January 1, 2025; then at least every 9 years. The inspector's report is an association record.

balcony; SB 326; elevated element; 5551; 9 years; 3 units

📄 Read the official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov →

How SoShiny helps with Balcony and elevated-element inspections

SoShiny calculates per-unit assessments automatically from ownership percentages and tracks payment status against every levy. The unit-level ledger is the audit trail your CPA, attorney, and the board need when an owner disputes a charge.

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Frequently asked

What does California §5551 require?
Condominium buildings with 3 or more units must have a licensed architect or structural engineer inspect load-bearing components and associated waterproofing of exterior elevated elements (balconies, decks, stairways, walkways) more than 6 feet above ground. First inspection was due January 1, 2025; then at least every 9 years. The inspector's report is an association record.
Who does California §5551 apply to?
California §5551 applies to HOA associations in California.
What happens if our CID doesn't comply with §5551?
Non-compliance can expose the association and individual directors to disputes in the governing forum for California community associations. SoShiny's audit trail and documented workflows are designed to demonstrate good-faith compliance.
Where can I read the official text of California §5551?
The official text is published by the California Legislature at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov. The summary on this page is for plain-English reference only and is not legal advice.
How does SoShiny help with Balcony and elevated-element inspections?
SoShiny calculates per-unit assessments automatically from ownership percentages and tracks payment status against every levy. The unit-level ledger is the audit trail your CPA, attorney, and the board need when an owner disputes a charge. Learn more →

Not legal advice. This page is a plain-English summary of California §5551 prepared by SoShiny for board members and managers. For binding legal advice or interpretation, consult a California-licensed attorney. For the official statutory text, see the link above.

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