Hanson Structural.pdfPage 1 of 1
Bjorback, Leif
From: Bjorback, Leif
Sent: Friday, April 27, 2012 3:04 PM
To: 'LEDBETTER46@HOTMAIL.COM'
Cc: Yarberry, Leonard; Lawler, Patrick
Subject: Hanson Remodel
Hi Mark and Arnie,
Thank you for meeting on site today with Pat and me to discuss the structural aspects of the
Hanson residence. As you know, a concern was raised by Pat, our building inspector, regarding
the apparent lack of lateral bracing within the existing northwest end of the house. The absence
of solid wall panels as well as some other elements led us to open a discussion on what could
or should be done to improve the ability of the house to resist wind and earthquake loads in the
future. Arnie, you stated that as long as alterations to the structure do not negatively impact the
existing lateral force resisting system, that the code does not require upgrades to be performed.
We agree. However, we feel it would be prudent to address the apparent deficiencies of the
structure now that they have been brought to our awareness. We appreciate your willingness to
discuss possible solutions to make improvements in that regard. We ask that any proposed
upgrades that are outside of the current scope of work for the building permit be drawn up and
submitted as revisions to the permit, which I will then review and approve as appropriate.
Please note that there will be a small plan review fee charged for this process. Also, we want to
make it clear that performing lateral upgrades is merely a recommendation by the City, and not
a requirement at this time, and that the homeowners will ultimately need to be involved in the
decision to proceed.
Aside from any plan revisions that are proposed, we ask that you, Arnie, would provide to the
City a written statement to the effect that, in your opinion, the alterations being performed within
the scope of the current building permit (BLD2012-0097) do not add any adverse loading to the
existing lateral -resisting system of the structure, as you told us on site.
Mark, will you please forward this message to Arnie as well as to Mr. and Mrs. Hanson. Thank
you.
Regards,
L e,i f 3joi-b cckv
Assistant Building Official
City of Edmonds
(425) 771-0220
4/27/2012