Know what was inspected, what remains concealed and which professional is responsible before using a deck inspection report to plan repairs.
A routine condition review and a statutory inspection have different purposes
An owner may request a condition review after noticing a leak, loose railing, soft area or coating failure. A legally required inspection has a defined scope and inspector qualifications. A waterproofing estimate does not replace it. Stop using an area that appears unsafe and seek prompt professional assessment.
Sampling rules depend on the applicable law
For qualifying condominium association elements, Civil Code §5551 calls for a random, statistically significant sample and inspection by a licensed structural or civil engineer or architect. The inspector determines whether findings warrant further investigation.
Read Civil Code §5551Apartment inspections follow a different standard
For qualifying apartment properties, Health & Safety Code §17973 requires inspection of at least 15 percent of each type of exterior elevated element. It also sets inspector qualifications, reporting and repair requirements. Confirm the scope with the qualified inspector and local authority; do not substitute an informal sample.
Read Health & Safety Code §17973Understand the limits of access
Ask the inspector to identify the elements visited, accessible components, methods used and concealed areas that could not be evaluated. Looking at every balcony does not necessarily expose every framing connection or hidden defect. New observations during repairs should be documented and referred to the responsible professional when they change the required scope.
Turn the findings into an organized repair request
Keep the signed report, photographs, location schedule and recommendations together. Include any urgent directions and required timing. California Decking & Waterproofing uses the report and a site evaluation to prepare waterproofing and repair scopes; statutory inspection and approval remain separate responsibilities.
Plan repairs after an inspection