New deck on existing footings?

[Newbie-o]

I get a lot of permit applications proposing replacing an existing deck with all new framing but using the existing footings. The footings tend to be inadequate based on todays standards, but is this considered an existing condition that should be allowed to remain if the deck is the same size as the previous one?

 

[steveray]

Assuming the old deck was originally permitted and approved, you are well within the code to allow it to be rebuilt on the existing as long as you are not making it “less safe” in any way…If you feel the existing footings are dangerous or unsafe for some reason, then you can go down that route too…

Welcome to THE forum!

 

[Wstubbs]

we've used probes to verify frost depth, in the past.

 

[Mr. Inspector]

We get this all the time. We make them prove that the footings comply with the current code or build new.

 

[steveray]

We get this all the time. We make them prove that the footings comply with the current code or build new.

Because you have crappy permit records…or I hope that is the reason

 

[Mr. Inspector]

Because you have crappy permit records…or I hope that is the reason

We only had codes the last 10 years. No permits or records before that. Also, my 3rd party company gives the records to the local government after a job is done.

 

[ICE]

comply with the current code

Unless the only criteria is the use of concrete, that must never happen.

 

[Paul Sweet]

It should be OK as long as the old deck wasn't failing because of excess settlement or frost jacking. Just don't put more load on the old footings than the old deck did.