Building foundation plans

[all]

I want to do 2nd story addition over part of my 4S tract house and I need to verify that the existing foundation can carry the addition.

I can dig through concrete driveway or inspect the original blueprint. HOA says talk to the county or the builder. D.R. Horton person says they don’t have it (I don’t believe that, but that’s my only contact there).

The person at the Department of Planning and Land Use at the county says they destroy plans 90 days upon completion of the project (explained with the lack of storage space), try the builder (already failed), landinfo.sdcounty.ca.gov (has been offline for a while, can’t find anyone who has any idea what is going on with it), or the original architect.

Is there a way to figure out who the architect was (assuming the county and the builder have no info)?

[UCGal]

It’s likely to be a structural engineer, rather than architect for the foundation.

Can you find out who this was from the builder? As well as the architect.

I think (would have to confirm with my architect husband) architects are required to keep plans around for 10 years. I know this was an issue for his former boss when he was closing up shop… had to find a place to store 10 years worth of the firms plans.

The other option – although more expensive. Hire a structural engineer to inspect/assess. Since you’ll need their expertise when you get the new plans, perhaps you can work out a deal.

Anecdotally, I know my husband has told friends that it’s rare that a 1 story home can add a second story, except over the garage, without foundation work. But YMMV.

[sdduuuude]

[quote=UCGal]Anecdotally, I know my husband has told friends that it’s rare that a 1 story home can add a second story, except over the garage, without foundation work. But YMMV.[/quote]

I’d be shocked …. SHOCKED … if the builder in 4S spent a penny more than was needed to support the existing structure.

Likely you’ll have to do some footing work (cutting the slab, digging a hole or trench, filling w/ concrete) for a project like that.

[Author]

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