Existing building

[structengineer]

Can anyone point me to a place in the code (IBC 2006) that says, if you touch the existing building you need to bring it up to code? The situation I have is that there is an existing building that is block with double tee roof. There appears to be no connections between tee's or tees to the shearwalls. The owner wants to replace some of the tees with planks, add skylights, etc. They just want to be able to walk away without addressing the diaphragm issues. Is there something in the code that address's this situation?

 

[DonPhillips]

Try Chapter 34. An existing building typically can be left as originally approved but must be maintained. Alterations must meet the current code and a building can not made be left less safe after an alteration.


Don Phillips

http://worthingtonengineering.com

 

[JAE]

You should check with your local jurisdiction - I'm pretty sure this isn't in the code itself. It is usually a city law that if you renovate a building more than 20% or so they then force you to bring the whole building up to code....smaller percentages and they don't.

Call you local building department to see what they can tell you.