Cal. Civ. Code § 17970
California Health and Safety Code
Operative Text
Any officer, employee, or agent of an enforcement agency may enter and inspect any building or premises whenever necessary to secure compliance with, or prevent a violation of, any provision of this part, the building standards published in the State Building Standards Code, and other rules and regulations promulgated pursuant to the provisions of this part which the enforcement agency has the power to enforce.
California Health & Safety Code § 17970 authorizes designated officers, employees, or agents of an enforcement agency to enter and inspect buildings or premises when doing so is necessary to ensure compliance with, or prevent violations of, applicable building standards and related regulations. The provision establishes the legal basis for these inspections but does not itself set the frequency or procedural requirements for entry. It applies to the full range of building standards and rules that the relevant enforcement agency is empowered to oversee.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Cal. Health & Safety Code § 17970, compliant property operators generally maintain their buildings in a condition that meets applicable building standards so that any inspection by an enforcement agency can be accommodated without issue. Operators familiar with this provision typically keep records of maintenance, repairs, and prior inspections readily accessible. Understanding that authorized agency personnel may enter when compliance concerns arise helps operators proactively address potential code issues before an inspection occurs.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Cal. Health & Safety Code § 17970 establishes that tenants living in buildings subject to California's building standards are protected by a system in which enforcement agency personnel can inspect properties to verify compliance and address potential violations. If a tenant believes their building has conditions that violate applicable building standards, they may consider contacting the local enforcement agency or a tenant-rights organization to learn about the complaint and inspection process available under this provision. Tenants may also find it useful to document any conditions of concern, as this information can be relevant when an enforcement agency evaluates whether an inspection is warranted.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated September 3, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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