A.5.1.10 Subsurface Exploration

A. For new construction proposals, reliable information about subsurface conditions and foundation recommendations must be available to the Project Architect and the Lender’s Construction Analyst prior to foundation design. In some cases, subsurface exploration may be needed for existing buildings.

1. The Project Architect must advise the owner of the scope and type of soils information and/or subsurface investigation required for structural design.

2. The Borrower must provide the services of a registered design professional for determining subsurface conditions. These services shall be provided in accordance with the Owner-Architect Agreement.

3. The Lender’s Construction Analyst will assess that the Architect has comprehensive, well documented soils information and that project foundation design follows the report recommendations. When necessary, the Lender’s Construction Analyst should consult an engineer specializing in reviewing soil reports and related designs.

4. Soils investigation shall be in accordance with Chapter 18 of the International Building Code, except that an investigation and report is required for every project involving new construction, whether or not required by the building official.

5. In some cases, observed conditions at existing properties (e.g., foundation failure, history or indications of sink holes in the immediate vicinity) may require subsurface exploration. In such cases the Lender and Needs Assessor must retain the services of a licensed professional/engineer to conduct intrusive examination to identify the nature of subsurface problems and recommend appropriate action.