Bringing enclosed back porch up to code

[Devon Schmieder]

Hey BP,

I recently bought a 2bd 1bth property in Tucson, AZ last November with a Homeready loan. I'm currently living in the property ( Similar to an FHA - owner occupied for 1 year minimum). I have a few exit strategies for the property but ideally I'd like to convert an un-permitted enclosed back porch (~300 sqft) into an additional studio unit. The property is R2 zoned, and I don't think I will run into any setback issues; the lot is fairly large and the house sits center on the property. It already has AC-heating ventilation, electrical outlets and a closet. Here's the problem, there is no footing underneath the existing concrete slap of the enclosed porch. This will probably be required to it permitted. If this is the direction I decide to run with, I will do a lot of the work myself with the help of my Dad ( licensed contractor in Flagstaff AZ, which is about 4 hours north of Tucson). I plan to have an inspector come out and access what will be required to bring the existing structure up to code. I guess my question is - Is there anyone that has dealt with something similar or dumb enough to tackle such a task?

Thanks,

Devon

[Matt Clark]

Devon Schmieder I encountered the exact scenario you described about 10 years ago. We used a mini-ex to dig a trench around the perimeter of the slab so we could pour continuous footings. By getting the machine positioned correctly you can actually end up digging almost half the bucket width up under the edge of the slab. Then you can do some shovel work as needed. You should run the plan by the building official first and find out how much of the slab they will require to bear on the new footing. I’m guessing some building officials will give you an answer, and some will require an engineered solution.