Common questions, straight answers.

Frequently asked questions

Q · 01What is the mandatory retrofit program?

The purpose of this program is to reduce the risk of injury or loss of life that may result from the effects of earthquakes on wood-frame soft-story buildings. It provides guidance for strengthening buildings against earthquake damage patterns like those observed in the 1994 Northridge Earthquake.

Q · 02Why is my building affected?

Buildings meeting these LADBS criteria qualify: two or more stories with wood-frame construction, built before January 1, 1978, and containing ground-floor parking or similar open spaces that create weak wall lines.

Q · 03Why should I care about SB-721 and SB-326 balcony deadlines?

SB-721 and SB-326 require that exterior elevated elements and their associated waterproofing be inspected and kept in good condition, free from hazards such as fungus, deterioration, and decay. This addresses safety concerns highlighted by structural failures at multifamily and HOA buildings.

Q · 04What are Exterior Elevated Elements (EEEs)?

Structures like balconies, decks, porches, stairways, walkways, and entry structures that extend beyond exterior walls, with walking surfaces over six feet above ground and relying on wood for structural support.

Q · 05When are the SB-721 and SB-326 deadlines?

SB-326 (HOA and condominium buildings) required the first inspection by January 1, 2025, then every nine years. SB-721 (multifamily rental buildings with three or more units) requires the first inspection by January 1, 2026 under AB 2579, then every six years. Cal Retrofit handles the repair, waterproofing, permit, and recertification; the licensed inspection report is handled with our engineering partner Naxa.

Q · 06What are waterproofing elements?

Elements such as flashings, membranes, coatings, and sealants that protect exterior elevated components from water intrusion.

Q · 07What are load-bearing components?

Wood-constructed pedestrian-use surfaces at least six feet above ground, including balconies, decks, stairways, landings, walkways, and their supporting elements.

Q · 08What are the deadlines after I receive the order to comply for a retrofit?

Two years to submit retrofit plans, 3.5 years to obtain permits, and seven years to complete construction from the date of the order to comply.

Q · 09What are the benefits of retrofitting?

Lower earthquake insurance premiums, reduced liability exposure, potential savings on interest, improved tenant attraction and retention, and a benefit-to-cost ratio that can be as high as 7:1 over the life of the building.

Q · 10What are my responsibilities as a property owner?

Property owners must have licensed engineers or architects evaluate building strength, develop seismic strengthening plans, notify tenants per LADBS and HCID-LA regulations, and complete the work within the required timeline.

Q · 11Is Cal Retrofit licensed to do this work?

Yes. Cal Retrofit is a CSLB-licensed California general contractor (License #310779), fully insured for structural work, and certified by the California Earthquake Association. Structural engineering is provided by our sister company Naxa.

Q · 12Do you build ADUs?

We support ADU projects on the foundation, structural, and permitting side, and our sister companies lead the design and delivery: ADU Concepts for single-family and multifamily ADUs, and LyteMods for panelized light-gauge-steel homes.