What You Need to Know About SF604 Inspections: Requirements, Compliance, and Common Issues

If you’re a board member or property manager of a homeowner’s association (HOA) in California, the term SB 326 or SF604 inspections should be on your radar. These mandatory inspections, stemming from California’s Senate Bill 326, are now a legal requirement for condominium associations with buildings containing three or more units. Understanding the requirements, maintaining compliance, and addressing common issues is critical to avoid fines, lawsuits, or costly repairs down the line.

What Is an SF604 Inspection?

SF604 inspections refer to the structural safety evaluations required by California Senate Bill 326, which became law in 2019. The goal is to ensure the safety of exterior elevated elements (EEEs) such as balconies, decks, stairs, and walkways that are at least six feet above ground and are supported in whole or in part by wood or wood-based products. These inspections must be conducted by a licensed structural engineer or architect and are required every nine years.

Key Requirements for HOAs

For HOAs, particularly those managing multi-family dwellings like condos and townhomes, the following requirements are essential:

Initial Deadline: Associations must complete their first inspection by January 1, 2025.
Covered Elements: Any elevated structure that serves a unit and is supported by wood must be inspected.
Qualified Inspector: Only a licensed architect or structural engineer can conduct the evaluation.
Written Report: A detailed report must be created and made available to the HOA, owners, and if necessary, local code enforcement.
Repair Requirements: Any identified damage or safety hazard must be repaired promptly, especially if it presents an immediate threat.

Common Compliance Issues

Many HOAs face similar challenges when navigating SF604 requirements. The most common include:

Delaying Inspections: Some HOAs are unaware of the 2025 deadline or underestimate the time needed to schedule inspections and complete repairs.
Incomplete Inventories: HOAs may not have a current and accurate list of all EEEs, making it difficult to identify what must be inspected.
Unqualified Inspectors: Using unlicensed or unqualified individuals to conduct the inspection can lead to noncompliance.
Failure to Follow Up: Identifying issues is only the first step. Delays in repair work or poor documentation of follow-up actions can create legal and safety risks.

How We Can Help

SF604 inspections are not just a legal requirement, they are a crucial part of ensuring the long-term safety and structural integrity of your community. From conducting thorough inspections to managing required repairs and ensuring all documentation is properly handled, our team is here to support your association every step of the way.

Contact AD Magellan Construction Planning and Management to schedule your SF604 inspection and ensure your community is safe and compliant. Visit our office in Vista, California, or call (877) 899-5990 to book a consultation today.