Definition of "Structurally Sound" 10

[enginerding]

A client has requested that we provide a letter stating a certain structure is considered "structurally sound". The structure is older, but in good condition. The design is governed by wind loads but the current building code in the area has much more substantial requirements than the code under which the structure was originally permitted.

For this case, since no modifications whatsoever are being made to this structure, I would consider it to be structurally sound if it complies with the building code under which it was originally permitted.

This leaves me with a few questions:

1. Is it possible to call something structurally sound without referencing a specific building code or standard?

2. Is it possible to call something structurally sound by evaluating condition only, provided that the structure had been previously designed and built according to the current building code at the time? (This question assumes that orignial drawings are accessible)

3. Is it possible to call something structurally sound by evaluating condition only if drawings do not exist, and no calculations are performed?

Additionally, does someone have a good definition of "structurally sound"?

 

[dik]

JAE...
It puts the onus on the Client to provide funding for additional work...

Dik

 

[dik]

Archeng... I've never had that sort of cash cow... you should be able to 'certify' it with qualifications, realizing that maintenance items be addressed as well as annual reviews for a fee that may vary depending on what is uncovered... unless the building is a wreck whose capacity cannot be determined...

Dik

 

[archeng59]

dik, not sure what you mean by "cash cow."

also, my E&O insurance company regularly reminds me never to use the word "certify" in a report.