Existing Structures in California

[JimKSF]

Can anyone help me with the CA Building Code section that addresses non-retroactivity of structural requirements from newer codes than were used at the time of construction? Or does 3403 cover this question since there is no change in use or occupancy of the facility? We are simply trying to determine existing capacities.

A reviewer is claiming that a pile supported structure (built in the 1920's) should conform to the le/d maximum of 50 (NDS) for the unsupported length of the piles. This structure has exceeded that limit (in some piles) for its entire life.

While we agree that new piles should conform to that limit, how does a new code requirements on length/dia preclude the analysis of existing piles as long columns following the previous codes for their current capacity?



Thanks in advance

 

[mudflaps]

Try to reason with him and tell him you'll comply with that requirement for any NEW piles. If that doesn't work, ask to see his boss and propose the same thing. If that doesn't work, go see if the owner has some political clout. If that doesn't work, you're screwed.

Old CA SE