I’ve purchased a steel folded-plate workshop structure 30’x30’x16′ that is commonly placed on a cement slab. It is in storage on my farm in PA. I’ve decided that I’d like to make it into a second residence, not just a workshop. I’m prepared to install septic, comply with building codes etc.
The structure (from US Buildings) comes with stamped engineering drawings, but now as I plan to make it into a residence, I assume that I need further drawings, including plumbing under the cement slab, etc.
Do any members have experience with this type of conversion (workshop to residence). What is the smart way to get through the approval process? Since I don’t need design help with the interior, I assume that an architect is not needed; an engineer could create the drawings. Please note that this conversion is the minimal type – just install a bedroom, bathroom and kitchen, nothing fancy (that will come later, after I move in).
Thanks
PaulBen
Replies
I'm presently involved, as an Engineer, in a project that I cannot complete. The owner did some work on his property, and although he was technically correct with what he did and did not do, he has alienated the local building official, and the real project he wants to get done is unendingly mired in red tape and disputes.
The short answer to your question, "What is the smart way to get through the approval process?", ask the local building department official what they require in terms of documents and submittals for permits and approvals. My experience with building and/or code officials, inspectors and the like is, that if asked in a reasonable manner what they want, up front, all future dealings will be without conflict (assuming you comply with their requests).
In addition to Tim's suggestions, you might also consider hiring a local architect for a couple of hours of their time to glance over your plans and ideas. They can potentially alert you to local issues as well as any simple oversights that would cost nothing to correct now, or only a few extra dollars to have it ready for future uses that would be costly to retrofit. A few hundred on an architect today might save you many times that later on.