Replies

1. 
   Guest_ | Jan 27, 1999 08:40pm | #1

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   Why dont you just call your building inspector and get what he wants to see on the drawing for a permit from him. Then, if you are over your head, take this information with you to your architect.

   Dave

1. 
   Guest_ | Jan 28, 1999 03:00am | #2

   *Every jurisdiction I have ever worked with has a hand-out telling exaclty what they require. It would help to talk to a compent designer, not necessarily an architect. If you plan to hire a contractor, he/she may be able to provide design services. There is an abreviated code book, in UBC jurisdictions, for residences that deals with issues such as egress and stairways without bogging you down in structural matters and design of commercial/industrial buildings. You will probably need an engineer or architect to deal with the structural end of this since it ammounts to a second story. The best way to learn is to get in over our heads and try and find the way out.

1. 
   Guest_ | Jan 30, 1999 10:05am | #4

   *Not all local jurisdictions have hand-outs, and building inspectors often don't have the time to help homeowners design their projects from scratch. I would encourage you to go to your public library and read Chapter 3 of the CABO One and Two Family Dwelling Code. You'll learn a lot of good stuff for planning your project, and can address such items as headroom at stairways, egress codes, etc. Use this information to develop basic plans, take measurements, revise the plans, etc. until you have something workable to discuss with a building official or architect. Dave and Mike have suggested an architect or structural engineer, since your floor joists in the attic were probably designed only to serve as ceiling joists for the rooms below ... good advice.Good luck, Steve

2. 
   NJkwan | Jan 30, 1999 10:05am | #3

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   I am trying to remodel attic into bedrooms, but I need to know the information that must be included in the drawing for the permit. Beside the accurate drawing, what must be included in the specifications, such as smoke detector placements? What is an egress window, from a second floor attic? Should I hire an architect for one family house remodel? Would studying the Code Books help with drawing up a plan? Thanks all in advance and I know I am over my head, again.