Building additions in downtown Charleston, SC

[Patrick Bross]

Hey BP,

Looking for some references local to the Charleston, SC area. I am exploring the idea of adding square footage to my downtown duplex (above the crosstown in the West Side neighborhood). 

Although I am grandfathered in, there have been mountains of building codes over the years making the property non-conforming in more ways than one. I've spoken with the zoning office a few times regarding options but receive different answers each time I call. The common element, however, is I should still be able to make something happen with the right approvals and plans.

In short; I am looking for a contractor/builder/investor familiar with Charleston zoning/building codes, and the politics that go along. Ideally, they would advise on WHAT my options are (working with Board of Architectural Review (BAR), neighborhood, and any other barriers), then ultimately do the work.

Thanks for your support!