A
balcony is a platform attached to the house, but is not typically 
supported
from the ground. Balconies may be built
on the joists that extend from the floor joist system of the house, or they may
be extensions of the interior floor joists that are cantilevered over the
exterior foundation wall. It is important that a complete evaluation of the
balconies be conducted, to ensure that they are structurally safe. Balconies can fail if their support, joists
or fasteners deteriorate because of weather and lack of maintenance.
The
flooring of the balcony area is vulnerable to deterioration, especially if it
has been used to support plants that are frequently watered and seldom moved,
or are located on the north side of the structure. As with the decks and landings, the balcony area should be
properly secured with hand rails and guard rail sections. Evaluate the point
where the cantilevered joist or flooring supports rest upon the foundation
walls. Check for cracking of the
foundation structure, as well as for sag, deterioration and other signs of
failure in the structural supporting members of the balcony.
