As Deadline Looms, CA Apartment Owners Must Inspect Balconies to Avoid Fines

News| May 8, 2025| Connect CRE

By Patryk Kozan, PE

With the end-of-2025 deadline looming, California’s E3 law requires balcony inspections for many multifamily properties, but a significant number of apartment owners have yet to take action. Industry experts warn that as the cutoff date draws near, demand for consultants and repairs will surge, likely driving up costs and extending turnaround times. Property owners are urged to begin the process now to avoid potential delays and rising expenses. 

Ensuring compliance with the E3 law balcony inspections, Health and Safety Code 17973 (HSC 17973), is a proactive step toward protecting residents, maintaining property value, and avoiding costly penalties. By completing inspections and necessary repairs on time, property owners can enhance safety, preserve the integrity of their buildings, and maintain financial stability. Cities across California are enforcing strict deadlines, and delaying compliance can lead to escalating fines, legal consequences, and unexpected liabilities. Beverly Hills is one of the cities that recently sent email reminders to apartment owners about E3 compliance. The sooner owners act, the better positioned they are to avoid enforcement actions and keep their properties in top condition. Don’t wait—stay ahead of the deadlines and safeguard your investment today! 

Consequences of Non-Compliance  

• Monetary Penalties: Property owners who miss inspection deadlines may face fines imposed by the city. 

• Code Violations: If deficiencies are found and not addressed, owners could be cited for code violations. 

• Legal Action: Continued failure to comply can lead to enforcement actions, possibly including legal proceedings. 

• Life Safety: Inaction increases the risk of life safety hazards.  

What government agencies will enforce E3 balcony inspection compliance?  

E3 compliance is enforced by local building departments or code enforcement agencies within each jurisdiction in California. These agencies are responsible for ensuring that property owners complete the required inspections and address any deficiencies identified in the inspection reports. They also impose penalties for non-compliance, such as fines or safety liens. 

Are there penalties if owners don’t comply?  

As for penalties, non-compliance with E3 balcony law can lead to fines ranging from $100 to $500 per day. Additionally, local jurisdictions may impose safety liens on non-compliant properties, which could result in foreclosure if fines remain unpaid. Non-compliance might also affect a property owner’s insurance eligibility. 

What municipalities have an E3 program in CA?  

Examples of Cities with E3 Programs: 

• Malibu

• San Jose

• Berkeley

• Los Angeles

A Proactive Approach to Property Management 
Don’t wait to get compliant because the costs are likely to escalate closer to the deadline. If your multifamily building has any foreseeable renovation work that requires permitting or refinancing, getting compliant now will help you mitigate construction delays.    

Patryk Kozan, PE is a Senior Engineer at Partner Engineering and Science. He is a multifamily structure expert and the technical lead for CA E3 Inspection Law services. Mr. Kozan has conducted field inspections, prepared reports, and reviewed reports of thousands of multifamily units for portfolios and single sites throughout California.  

For all CA E3 Inspection Law services and inquiries, please contact Shari Fykes at Partner Engineering and Science: [email protected] or (866) 903-0755.