Welcome to the very first episode of California Law Updates Simplified with DrBalcony, where we cut through the legal jargon so you can protect your properties—and your peace of mind. In today’s deep dive, we start with a sobering reminder: two balcony collapse tragedies—in Berkeley (2015) and Silver Lake (February 2025)—underscored how invisible dry rot can turn a routine safety check into a life‑or‑death matter.

From there, we unpack:

SB 721 vs. SB 326: Who must inspect which Exterior Elevated Elements (EEs), sample sizes, inspector qualifications, and why December 31, 2025, is a deadline you can’t afford to miss.

Photographic Documentation (AB 2801): Why you now need move‑in, pre‑repair, and post‑repair photos—or risk losing your right to withhold security deposits.

Rent Reporting & “Junk Fee” Bans: How AB 2747 empowers tenants to build credit and SB 611 bans surprise fees for notice delivery and payment methods.

Domestic Violence Protections: The 24‑hour lock‑change mandate, tenant screening rules, and how to avoid costly liability.

Eviction & Tenant Protections: AB 2347’s new timelines, AB 1482’s strengthened rent‑cap enforcement (including treble damages), and the survival of Costa‑Hawkins’ vacancy decontrol.

Whether you manage an HOA, own a multi‑unit apartment, or rent out a single‑family home, this episode equips you with clear, actionable guidance to stay compliant, avoid rush‑hour price hikes, and sidestep six‑figure lawsuits.

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