LA Garage ADU conversion foundation confusion

[Christopher Currall]

I'm concerned about a couple cracks in the 6" concrete slab foundation in the garage I'm now converting into an ADU. The architect initially suggested that'd it' be no problem - he'd simply submit to the city of LA as existing structure and it'd be fine. But then his plans do include pouring a new foundation for the portion of the building where the 2-car garage door currently exists. okay, bummer, but fine enough, I can figure it out and deal with getting that done. But if the city approves the plans as submitted - and then I build the forms to add the foundation as presented in the plans ... is it possible that the city inspector, when inspecting the form, might decide he doesn't like the existing garage slab and force me to add new foundation for the entire garage?

Curious what others have run into as far as garage ADU foundation requirements with the City of LA?

Thank you much,

-Chris

[Nabil Suleiman]

@Christopher Currall

If this is LA City the engineers, if paying attention, will ask for a 12" depth. If you are less than that and the engineer doesn't catch that, the inspector might. If they do, then you would likely need to poor footings around the garage to make sure you are meeting the 12". If you garage is sitting close to the edge of your property, depending on the distance to your neighbors home, you will need to give a 30 day notice to excavate. I wish it was always a simple answer, but sometimes you get people who pay attention and sometimes you dont... but as for the code, it is 12" so just be prepared for that.