Foundation Inspection in Los Angeles

In most cases, yes. LADBS issues Express Permits without plan check for two foundation-related scopes only, both under L.A. City Standard Plan #1: cripple-wall bracing and anchor bolting, with or without foundation replacement. They apply to houses up to 3 stories and 4 units. Other foundation repair goes through LADBS plan check, which can be submitted through ePlanLA. Our engineers prepare the repair design and plans; a licensed contractor does the work.

Often, yes. The LADBS Grading Division usually requires a soils and/or geology report before it issues permits. Its geotechnical engineers and geologists review these reports for issues such as slope instability and liquefaction. Grading permits are required for earthwork in the Hillside Grading Area. Our inspection report states whether a geotechnical investigation is likely to be needed.

The California Geological Survey publishes Earthquake Zones of Required Investigation maps for liquefaction, earthquake-induced landslides and Alquist-Priolo fault zones. For City of Los Angeles parcels, LADBS points applicants to ZIMAS for property information. We check these sources when preparing your report.

Generally no. The LADBS Soft-Story Retrofit Program covers wood-frame buildings of 2 or more stories, built under codes enacted before January 1, 1978, with ground-floor parking or similar open space. It does not apply to residential buildings with 3 or fewer units. Raised-floor houses can still be voluntarily retrofitted under L.A. City Standard Plan #1.

For eligible rebuilds under Emergency Executive Order No. 1, LADBS allows the existing slab and foundation to be reused if a California-licensed Professional Structural Engineer or Architect evaluates it and confirms it is in satisfactory condition. Supporting documentation goes to LADBS for review. Our PE engineers perform this evaluation and prepare the documentation.

Not always. LADBS advises checking the property in ZIMAS. If ZIMAS cannot find it, the property may be outside the City and served by another agency. LA County Public Works provides a service locator. We confirm the jurisdiction before preparing permit plans.

No. Cecilia Home is an engineering and design firm. We provide the foundation inspection report, repair recommendations, and repair design and permit plans for LADBS; a licensed contractor you hire performs the work.