Division of Hotels and Restaurants

Balcony Inspection FAQ

All information on this page is current and was last reviewed by the division on July 31, 2012.

1. Q: Which establishments require a balcony inspection?

A: A balcony inspection is required for all public lodging establishments that are 3 stories or more in height or which have a vertical distance of 17 feet or more from the lowest grade level to any balcony.

2. Q: What is considered a balcony?

A: The term “balcony” is defined as a landing or porch that is accessible to or used by the public.  For the purpose of balcony inspection, the term balcony also includes platforms, stairways, railings and railways, guardrails, balustrades and parapets.

3. Q: Is a special certification or license required to conduct a balcony inspection in a lodging establishment?

A: No. Any person the owner or operator of the building feels is competent, through education and experience, to conduct such an inspection.

The owner or operator of the building must clearly list the qualification(s) of the balcony inspector.  It is the responsibility of the owner or operator of the building to verify all facts and credentials pertaining to the balcony inspector’s qualification(s).  The qualification(s) could include, but are not limited to, construction experience, knowledge of the building, engineering certification/degree, professional licenses held, etc.

4. Q: Is there a specific form that must be completed for the balcony inspection?

A: Yes.  The Division’s Certificate of Balcony Inspection form must be completed. It is available on our website in Microsoft Word and editable PDF versions.

5. Q: Do I have to submit a separate form for each building?

A: No.  You may include all buildings which are owned and operated by the same entity and are located on the same property on one form.  Be sure to list all the areas inspected in the space provided on the form.

6. Q: When must the balcony inspection be completed?

A: An initial balcony inspection must be completed for newly constructed establishments and establishments which have changed ownership. In these cases, the completed Certificate of Balcony Inspection form must be submitted with the license application or presented to the inspector at the time of the licensing inspection.   

A new balcony inspection must also be completed every 3 years when the Certificate of Balcony Inspection form expires. Send the completed form to the appropriate district office.

7. Q: What happens if the balcony inspector finds a defect?

A: It is the owner or operator’s responsibility to have any defects found by the balcony inspector repaired.  The number of defects found and the date the repairs are completed must be documented on the Certificate of Balcony Inspection form.

8. Q: Do I have to keep a copy of the Certificate of Balcony Inspection on property?

A: Yes.  When the district office receives a completed Certificate of Balcony Inspection, the form is date stamped and a copy is returned to the owner or operator of the property.  The date stamped copy of the form must be available for inspection upon request.