Previously Stamped Plans
Previously Stamped Plans
(OP)
My client has asked me to get some plans re-approved by the City so they can obtain a permit. The rule is that once plans are approved, construction must begin within one year or the approval signatures will expire and the plans must be re-submitted for approval. The plans were originally prepared and sealed by another engineer six years ago, but the client chooses not to use them this time for some reason. There are no design changes, but there will possibly be some minor changes required on the utility company's standard notes. Would it be a breach of ethics for me to make the required revisions on the original drawings and put my seal on them in addition to the original engineer's seal? The design is fine and meets all local requirements.





RE: Previously Stamped Plans
RE: Previously Stamped Plans
Regardless - if you put your seal on it - you are now responsible. While I agree it would be a waste of time to redraw everything - I would completely re-check the design and document my calcs and charge accordingly.
And in six years - we have been through at least two revisions of the model building codes - so I must think there should be some rather major changes - specifically wind and seismic come to mind and changes in ASCE, NDS, ACI, AISC, NEC, etc., etc.
Good Luck
RE: Previously Stamped Plans
You say: The design is fine and meets all local requirements. .
How do you know this is true? Just reviewing and gut feeling? As an engineer you have a duty to protect the public welfare and safety. The original engineer may have made a critical mistake somewhere.
Check it thoroughly...then seal.
RE: Previously Stamped Plans
RE: Previously Stamped Plans
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RE: Previously Stamped Plans
RE: Previously Stamped Plans
Don Phillips
http://worthingtonengineering.com
RE: Previously Stamped Plans
1. In addition to the current code issue, even though the plans were stamped six years ago, some states have an expiration date on the stamp which may render his stamp on the drawings and any calculations invalid anyway. It may have to be removed. If so, the original engineer should be notified as a courtesy.
2. There is a reason why he does not want to return to the original enginer. I would suggest calling the other engineer. You might get an earful that would help you deal with the problem from an "enlightened" perspective. Then again, he could be retired. Hey, what do I know?
Mike McCann
MMC Engineering
RE: Previously Stamped Plans
I called the architect, explained the scope of work, and he did not have any real concerns but appreciated my call. He had done the original project for a friend and the restaurant did not survive a year. He was glad to hear someone could take over and help the friend out.
I then called the applicant and he confirmed he marked up the drawing so I referenced in the plan approval letter that the applicant and not the architect was the author of the revision.
The point is - there is usually a story in there somewhere.
Don Phillips
http://worthingtonengineering.com
RE: Previously Stamped Plans
Namely, your client hired the professional services of the former PE; the 6 year old stamped drawings are only instruments of that professional service. Your client probably does not "own" these drawings unless it was specifically stipulated in the contractual relationship between him and the former engineer.
There is no reason to be shy; point blank ask your client why he is not choosing to contact the former engineer. You have a right to know what has happened if you are being asked to step in the middle of this.
Out of professional respect, I would also consider contacting the former engineerand let him know what's (potentially) going on with his plans. You might hear a completely different tale than what the owner said!
RE: Previously Stamped Plans
I really suggest that you read your state statues and pick up an ethics book.
RE: Previously Stamped Plans
Dik
RE: Previously Stamped Plans
Don Phillips
http://worthingtonengineering.com
RE: Previously Stamped Plans
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See "Failure to Communicate" on Page 4.