Pile Placement Disagreement
Pile Placement Disagreement
I have an addition, single story, that was put on a pin pile and concrete grade beam foundation due to the proximity to a steep slope that is sluffing - a critical slope area with a history. When I did the design, I deliberately held the piling line back from the critical slope boundary to allow for future sluffing of the bank, plus included a grade beam for some soil retention under the addition should a failure occur.
That being said, now the City, against the recommendations of both the Geotech, and myself, has insisted on moving the pile line three feet closer to the edge of the bank, if you can believe it, actually slightly beyond the setback line they created themselves. They also want the pile larger and closer together with a deeper grade beam, which I do not have a problem with, but only at the original pile line location.
insert [soapbox] emoticon here
I intend to put a statement on the calcs and plans that I do not agree with the stipulation, holding the City responsible should the pile fail at a later date in the closer location. In my opinion, the second they start making engineering design judgments, which they should not, they incur professional liability, as well as wrath.
I do not expect this to fly, as in obtain a permit, but I am sick and tired of jurisdictions playing engineer here. I am seriously stating that I cannot stamp the plans in the closer location, as that is really the only way to avoid the liability issue here. I have already emailed the Geotech, Architect, and the City, so the stuff will fly soon.
Isn't Engineering fun?





RE: Pile Placement Disagreement
Why don't you design something that you and the city can live with? If pin piles don't work then use something else. An old and wise geotech once told me that "you cannot fight City Hall".
RE: Pile Placement Disagreement
If your plan reviewer is not a licensed structural engineer, then check your state law for a provision that says something about engineering judgment being overruled by a lay person or entity. In my state, we are required to write a letter putting all on notice that we have been overruled by a lay authority and that we cannot accept the responsibility for the outcome.
RE: Pile Placement Disagreement
I have a phone conversation with him on Monday. We'll see what happens. Thanks.
Mike McCann
MMC Engineering
http://mmcengineering.tripod.com
RE: Pile Placement Disagreement
For the life of me, I can't.
Mike McCann
MMC Engineering
http://mmcengineering.tripod.com
RE: Pile Placement Disagreement
RE: Pile Placement Disagreement