Replies

1. 
   greg_e | Feb 02, 2021 03:03pm | #1

   In my area if you tear down the (all) the walls you are building a new house and the foundation would have to meet current code requirements. My planning department would require some sort of proof that it does.

   However if you leave at least one wall standing you are remodeling the structure, and the foundation would not have to meet current code. This comes with much lower planning fees as an added benefit.

2. 
   Deborah_JC | Feb 02, 2021 04:19pm | #2

   Hi there,

   If you are tearing down everything but the foundation, you will likely need a building permit to Construct new exterior walls. I would check with the planning department in your city, but most likely it would need to be inspected by an engineer then approved by a building inspector. Hope this helps.

3. 
   andy_engel | Feb 03, 2021 06:27am | #3

   It depends entirely on where you live. Call the building department and ask.

   Unless you are yourself an expert, bringing in an engineer for a look is money well spent whether or not it's required.

4. 
   dogtown | Mar 03, 2021 12:35pm | #4

   Thanks for your answers!. I talked to my local building inspector and the rule here is that you have to leave at least 25% of the original structure to get around updating your foundation to current codes. So we decided to leave the first floor framing almost as is, and second floor/roof will come down.