• Welcome to The Building Code Forum

    Your premier resource for building code knowledge.

    This forum remains free to the public thanks to the generous support of our Sawhorse Members and Corporate Sponsors. Their contributions help keep this community thriving and accessible.

    Want enhanced access to expert discussions and exclusive features? Learn more about the benefits here.

    Ready to upgrade? Log in and upgrade now.

Permit, yes--inspections, no

ICE

MODERATOR
Staff member
Joined
Jun 23, 2011
Messages
13,904
Location
California
A permit was obtained 11 years ago to convert a barn to a garage. No inspections were ever requested. As surprising as the lack of inspections is that nobody on our side thought to go look before the permit was expired. The property is in escrow and the garage must be legalized.

It appears to be a fine building. The property is 1.7 acres and listed for $1,550,000.00. The description states: "20 car garage."

Appearances can be deceiving.

A section of wall has been opened and there aren't any anchor bolts. At each skylight, the top chord of the TJI on each side has been removed. One side and the rear wall are built atop masonry retaining walls. Although not conclusive, tapping the masonry with a hammer indicates that it is not solid grouted. The masonry looks sloppy, which is not a good sign. It would be such a shame to lose this building because it's foundation is no good.

I was brought in late in the game and had to leave the meeting early to put out another fire; so I don't know what plans, if any, exist. Since this property is in escrow, there will probably be an expedited plan check and fast track construction. I hope nobody throws-up when they find out what will be required for inspection.

IMG_3596.jpg


IMG_3590.jpg


IMG_3588.jpg
 
Last edited by a moderator:
I forgot to mention that the house and barn were built in 1948. Nothing about this garage looks older than 11 years and it's pretty much the same with the house. I will operate under the premise that the only original feature of the barn that's still there, is the location. The house is off limits for now.
 
Ya, it sort of creeped me out when I kept hearing "Talk to the hand." And oh my goodness, he has horses. Halloween must be a blast.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Back
Top