(Effective Until July 1, 2010.)
WAC 51-19-500   Survey or evaluation.  When required by the building official a survey or evaluation shall be made by an architect or structural engineer licensed by the state to practice as such, who is knowledgeable in the earthquake resistant design of structures, regarding the structure's ability to resist the seismic loads prescribed by the Building Code requirements or by established alternate evaluation methodologies. Broad judgment may be exercised concerning the strength and performance of materials not recognized by the Building Code. Past historic records of the structure or similar structures may be used in the evaluation, including the effects of subsequent alterations. The capability of the structure to carry vertical and horizontal loads shall be evaluated. A complete, continuous and adequate stress path, including connections, from every part or portion of the structure to the ground shall be provided for the required vertical and horizontal forces.

     Parapets and exterior decoration shall be investigated for conformance with the Building Code or evaluation methodologies and anchorage with the ability to resist seismic forces shall be required, except in the case where those parapets or decoration are judged to present no hazard to life safety.

     A report shall be made of the findings of the survey and evaluation noting all deterioration of the existing structure and making recommendations for the repair of deterioration and for any reconstruction or strengthening which should be undertaken. Plans and specifications for the work done pursuant to the survey and evaluation prepared under this section shall be prepared under the responsible charge of an architect or structural engineer.



[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.120 and 19.27.074. 91-01-103, § 51-19-500, filed 12/18/90, effective 7/1/91.]