Common interest developments: association records: exterior elevated elements inspection.

Senator Grayson's proposal to modify California's common interest development regulations expands inspection and disclosure requirements for exterior elevated elements in multifamily buildings. The bill revises the Davis-Stirling Common Interest Development Act to require more detailed documentation of structural inspections and broader access to inspection records.

The legislation mandates that condominium associations obtain visual inspections of exterior load-bearing components from licensed structural engineers or architects every nine years. These inspections must evaluate a statistically significant sample of elements like decks, balconies and elevated walkways, using a 95% confidence level benchmark. Inspectors must document the total number of units and exterior elements, categorize repair urgency, and certify their findings in detailed reports.

When inspections reveal immediate safety threats, associations must notify local code enforcement within 15 days and restrict access until repairs receive approval. The bill requires associations to maintain inspection reports for two cycles and provide copies to prospective buyers as part of mandatory disclosure packages. Local enforcement agencies gain authority to recover costs from associations when addressing safety violations.

The measure narrows application to buildings with three or more attached multifamily units, while allowing association boards and local governments to impose stricter requirements. For buildings permitted after January 2020, initial inspections must occur within six years of occupancy certification. The first round of inspections under these new provisions must complete by January 2025.