SB 326 Condo Inspection Huntington Beach: Meet the Deadline

Quick Answer

California’s SB 326 requires HOA-governed condo buildings with three or more units to complete an exterior elevated element inspection. Most associations must comply before January 2026.

What SB 326 Actually Requires From Your HOA

SB 326 mandates that condominium associations hire a licensed structural engineer to inspect exterior elevated elements — think balconies, decks, stairways, and walkways. The goal is to catch dry rot, water intrusion, and structural failure before someone gets hurt.\n\nFor Huntington Beach condo owners in complexes along Pacific Coast Highway, Downtown HB, or the Bolsa Chica corridor, this isn’t optional. If your HOA hasn’t scheduled the inspection yet, the clock is ticking and non-compliance can trigger fines and complicate future sales.

Gantry has been great to me and my family. This is our second time purchasing with him and first time selling with Gantry. Throughout the whole process he has been amazing!! We are so thankful for his hard work and dedication to getting us into our dream home!! Thanks Gantry!!

— Brandon Austin, Google

How This Deadline Affects Your Sale or Purchase

If you’re selling a condo in Huntington Beach, buyers and their agents will ask about SB 326 compliance during due diligence. An uninspected building — or one with flagged repairs — can stall escrow or kill a deal entirely.\n\nBuyers should request the inspection report and any engineer findings before removing contingencies. In many cases, deferred repairs become a negotiating point. Knowing the compliance status upfront puts you in a stronger position, whether you’re on the listing or buying side.

The Checklist I Give My Clients

Confirm HOA Status — Ask your HOA board directly whether the SB 326 inspection has been scheduled or completed.
Request the Report — Buyers should always request the engineer’s written report before removing inspection contingencies.
Review Repair Timelines — Flagged items require a repair timeline — confirm your HOA has one documented in board minutes.
Check Reserve Funding — Significant repairs can strain HOA reserves, so review the current reserve study before committing.
Disclose Before Listing — Sellers must disclose known material defects, including any SB 326 findings, to prospective buyers.

My boyfriend and I had the pleasure of working with Gantry to purchase our first home. From the very beginning he had our best interest at heart. He quickly had a list of properties for us to browse through based on what we were looking for and what we could afford. Soon after he made himself available for a buyers tour in which we found the home we loved. Gantry was always quick in response to any questions we had and steered us in the right direction to make the best decisions. We never once had a doubt working with him and he kept us at ease during a process that most would deem stressful. I am so thankful we had Gantry in our corner and I highly recommend working with him! Thank you again Gantry!

— Courtney Raziano, Google

Gantry Wilson works with Huntington Beach condo owners and buyers every day and knows exactly how SB 326 compliance affects your transaction. Reach out to Gantry before your next move — local expertise at this stage makes a measurable difference.

Call 714-500-7797 or Schedule a Call

Frequently Asked Questions

Does SB 326 apply to my Huntington Beach condo association?

SB 326 applies to common interest developments with three or more units governed by an HOA. Most condo complexes in Huntington Beach qualify. Confirm with your HOA board or a licensed attorney.

What happens if my HOA misses the SB 326 inspection deadline?

Non-compliant associations can face legal exposure and potential fines. More practically, missing the deadline can complicate title and escrow when units in the building are listed for sale.

Can a failed SB 326 inspection stop my condo sale?

It can delay or complicate a sale. Lenders and buyers scrutinize flagged reports closely. Addressing known issues proactively — and documenting the repair plan — typically keeps transactions on track.

What To Do Right Now

If you own or are buying a condo in Huntington Beach, confirm your building’s SB 326 inspection status right now. Don’t wait for a buyer’s agent to surface the issue mid-escrow. Get the report, understand the findings, and know where your HOA stands on repairs before you list or make an offer.

Gantry Wilson · Broker Associate / DRE# 01412779 · Gantry Wilson Group at Real Brokerage · Serving Huntington Beach and OC since 2004

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