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What is Balcony Assurance?

The Balcony Assurance Process

An evidence-based, data-driven approach to managing oftentimes concealed risks of decks and railings

The Balcony Assurance Group's process for evaluating exterior elevated elements (EEEs) involves a systematic approach divided into three key phases. The initial phase is the Pre-Inspection Site Survey, where the team identifies, quantifies, and catalogs all EEEs on the property. This includes determining the type, quantity, and accessibility of each element to establish the minimum requirements for compliance with applicable regulations like SB721 and SB326. This step also reviews as-built drawings and confirms which features are subject to evaluation, saving clients time and money by excluding non-applicable elements.

Following the site survey, the Balcony Assurance Group proceeds to the EEE Screening Inspections. Here, each EEE is thoroughly inspected to determine its safety and structural integrity. The goal is to complete this evaluation in a minimally invasive and cost-effective manner. This phase may involve both visual inspections of exposed surfaces and non-destructive testing methods, such as borescope inspections of concealed framing members, to assess for potential issues like water intrusion and wood rot without unnecessary demolition.

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After the inspections are completed, the Balcony Assurance Group moves to the Analysis & Reporting phase. During this stage, the collected data is meticulously analyzed to generate a comprehensive report. The report details each EEE's condition, any identified issues, and recommendations for further action. This can range from routine maintenance and minor repairs to destructive testing or emergency intervention in cases where immediate risks to health and safety are observed. The objective is to provide clients with clear, actionable information to address any vulnerabilities and ensure compliance.

Key features of the Balcony Assurance Group's process include:

  • Pre-Inspection Site Survey: Identifying, quantifying, and cataloging EEEs to determine scope.
  • EEE Screening Inspections: Utilizing both visual and non-destructive testing methods.
  • Analysis & Reporting: Providing detailed, actionable reports with clear recommendations.
  • Compliance Focus: Ensuring adherence to regulations like California's SB721 and SB326.
  • Minimally Invasive: Aiming for cost-effective solutions with minimal disruption.

This structured process allows the Balcony Assurance Group to effectively manage the risks associated with EEEs, ensuring safety, compliance, and the long-term integrity of building structures for their clients.

Step 1: Pre-Inspection

Whether as part of a risk management evaluation, compliance with mandated inspection legislation, or embarking on a repair or renovation program, the first step is to understand what is required to achieve the objective. Every property is unique, as are the challenges of managing deck and railing risks. 

Step 2: Inspection

Once the items to be evaluated at a given property have been identified, the goal is to complete the inspection as quickly, cost-effectively, and with as little impact to building occupants as possible. Each location to be evaluated will receive a full visual inspection, augmented as necessary by other techniques.

Step 3: Analysis & Reporting

A tremendous amount of data is collected during the inspection process that must be analyzed by our experts to complete the evaluation. The findings are presented to the client and discussed with our senior consultants to answer any questions.

Learn if the Balcony Assurance Process is Right for Your Property

The potential risks posed by Exterior Elevated Elements (or "EEEs"), especially when wood framing is involved, are quite serious. When the wood framing is concealed from view, the true condition is unknown. 

Through the Balcony Assurance Process, property owners, and other stakeholders, can benefit from peace of mind that a plan is in place for managing the risks, avoiding unanticipated major repairs or surprises in the future. 

Contact Us To Learn More!