02-25-2009, 05:15 AM
I have a question about foundation requirements regarding my home here in Pahoa. My plans called out for footings with slab on grade but the contractors decided to delete the footings and pour the foundation, (stem walls) right on top of the compacted gravel leaving the foundation with no footprint or imbeds of any sort. He says that as long as the engineer provides a letter the inspectors will pass it. He also claims that "This is the way it's done here on the Big Island". I have a feeling that the next 5 or 6 point earthquake will shift my house into the neighbors lot... this would not be good. Am I worried about nothing or is this a valid concern? I have a feeling that once the warranty is up I will possibly have a big problem. If this is a problem, how can this be "fixed" without a demo? Please, if any one has any insight on this let me know. I have about a week window of opportunity to remedy this before the slab is poured. Thanks all.
Mitchell C Hale