Decks and balconies are some of the most dangerous exterior features when they are built or modified incorrectly. In Staten Island and South Brooklyn, many decks were added years after the home was built, often without proper permits or engineering. The result is structures that look fine from above but are dangerously unsupported below.

Here’s how to identify problems before they become failures.

Common Warning Signs of Improper Support

• Posts resting directly on soil, pavers or patio slabs instead of concrete footings.

• Ledger boards attached without proper flashing or lag bolts.

• Visible sagging, especially near the outer edge of the deck or balcony.

• Undersized or notched support posts that weaken load capacity.

• Rusting or missing metal connectors, brackets or joist hangers.

• Movement or bounce when multiple people stand on the deck.

Many failures occur at the ledger board where the deck connects to the house, not at the railing.

Why This Is Common Locally

Older homes in Staten Island and Brooklyn often had decks added during renovations without updated code compliance. Salt air accelerates corrosion of connectors, and freeze thaw cycles shift footings that were never deep enough. Balcony structures over garages or basements are especially vulnerable.

What Homeowners and Buyers Should Do

• Inspect from underneath, not just from the top.

• Confirm posts sit on poured concrete footings below frost depth.

• Look for modern metal connectors at every structural joint.

• Check for proper flashing where the deck meets the house.

• Have a contractor or engineer evaluate any deck that feels unstable.

Deck failures are sudden and catastrophic. Early inspection matters.

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Joseph Ranola | Five-Star Staten Island & South Brooklyn Realtor® (30 + Google reviews)
Associate Broker · Matias Real Estate | Founder · Bridge & Boro Team
Serving 103xx and 11209 / 11214 / 11228 | $25 M + closed volume
📞 917-716-1496 | ranolarealestate.com