Balconies are a great feature in any home—they offer a peaceful space to enjoy the outdoors, relax, or entertain. But as time passes, weather and wear can cause hidden damage that may not be obvious. That’s why balcony inspections are so important. They help keep your outdoor space safe, strong, and ready to use.
At Avant Home Inspections, we specialize in thorough inspections that give homeowners peace of mind. In this blog, we’ll explain why balcony inspections matter, what we look for, and how our expert team can help you protect your home and your loved ones.
Why Balcony Inspections Are Important
Many people don’t realize just how dangerous a damaged or unstable balcony can be. Without regular checks, small issues like rust, cracks, or water leaks can turn into major problems.
Balcony inspections are essential because they:
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Help identify hidden damage or structural weakness
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Prevent costly repairs by catching issues early
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Keep your family and guests safe
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Ensure your property stays up to building codes
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Increase your home’s overall value and appeal
A balcony may look fine on the surface, but underneath, there could be signs of trouble that only a trained eye can spot. That’s where we come in.
What a Balcony Inspection Includes
At Avant Home Inspections, we take a detailed and professional approach to every balcony inspection. Our goal is to make sure every part of the structure is safe and sound.
Here’s what we typically look for:
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Structural Stability: We check the supports, railings, beams, and flooring for cracks, sagging, or signs of movement.
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Water Damage: Moisture can cause rot, mold, and weaken the balcony’s materials. We inspect for leaks, stains, and drainage issues.
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Corrosion: Rusted metal parts can break down over time. We inspect bolts, nails, and connectors.
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Wood Rot or Insect Damage: Wooden balconies are vulnerable to rot and termites if not properly sealed and maintained.
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Balustrades and Guardrails: These must be secure, strong, and meet local safety codes.
Our inspection provides a full report, complete with photos and recommendations, so you can take action if needed.
Signs You May Need a Balcony Inspection
Not sure if it’s time for an inspection? Here are some signs that shouldn’t be ignored:
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Loose or wobbly railings
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Cracks in the surface or supports
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Soft or spongy spots on the floor
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Rusty fasteners or water stains
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Visible sagging or tilting
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Recent storms or harsh weather
If you notice any of these, it’s a smart idea to schedule a balcony inspection right away. Catching these signs early can save you from bigger problems—and bigger expenses—later.
When to Schedule a Balcony Inspection
Even if your balcony seems fine, it’s still a good idea to have it inspected regularly. Here are the best times to get it checked:
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When buying or selling a home – It’s a key part of a full home inspection.
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After major weather events – High winds, rain, and snow can cause hidden damage.
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Every few years – Especially for older homes or wooden balconies.
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Before a remodel – If you plan to update your outdoor space, start with a safety check.
By keeping a regular inspection schedule, you reduce the risk of sudden repairs and help extend the life of your balcony.
How Avant Home Inspections Makes It Easy
We understand that home safety can feel overwhelming—but we’re here to make it simple. Our team at Avant Home Inspections is trained, licensed, and experienced in spotting the signs that others may miss.
Here’s what sets us apart:
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Friendly Service: We take time to explain what we find in clear, everyday language.
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Thorough Reports: Our digital reports are easy to read and include detailed findings and photos.
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Fast Scheduling: We work around your availability and show up on time.
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Local Knowledge: We’re familiar with local building codes and weather conditions that affect balcony safety.
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Trusted Reputation: Homeowners, realtors, and property managers trust us for reliable, honest service.
Whether you need a quick check or a detailed inspection report for a property sale, we’ve got you covered.
Balconies and Building Code Compliance
Safety codes and requirements for balconies are in place to protect everyone. These rules cover everything from how high the railing should be to how strong the supports must be. If your balcony doesn’t meet local building codes, you could face:
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Fines or legal issues
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Problems selling or insuring your home
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Serious safety risks
Our balcony inspections make sure your outdoor space meets all necessary standards. We know the codes and keep up with the latest regulations, so you don’t have to.
Tips to Keep Your Balcony Safe Between Inspections
While a professional inspection is the best way to ensure safety, here are some simple things homeowners can do in between:
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Sweep off debris and leaves regularly to avoid water buildup
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Check for signs of damage after storms
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Don’t overload the balcony with heavy furniture or planters
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Look for rust, wood rot, or cracks and note any changes
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Trim nearby trees or bushes that could cause wear or scratches
By staying alert and taking care of small maintenance tasks, you help your balcony last longer and stay safer.
Schedule Your Balcony Inspection with Avant Today
If you haven’t had your balcony checked in a while—or ever—now is the perfect time. With Avant Home Inspections, you get a thorough, professional service from a team that truly cares about your home’s safety.
Don’t wait until small issues become big problems. Schedule your balcony inspection today and enjoy your outdoor space with confidence.
Call us or book online now to get started!
Final Thoughts
Your balcony is more than just a place to relax—it’s part of your home’s structure and safety. Regular balcony inspections help protect the people and property you care about. At Avant Home Inspections, we take pride in offering detailed inspections that give you the full picture and peace of mind.
