again basement Yes / No ???

[Herman F. Guzman]

I have a client who owns several homes and has asked me a question which I was not sure of the answer and I would like some help on this matter. The house in question is a two (2) level above ground California style Deck house. Only less than one quarter (1/4) of one (1) side of the (4) sides of this house is COVERED by soil, which that room still has two (2) side by side windows that are not covered by soil. I was lead to believe that any house that IS COVERED three (3) sides or more by soil is considered a basement. Could some one call me to discuss this matter or Post me back. My office # is 240-566-5988 if I am not there it will automaticlly foward to my cell.

[Jeffrey R. Jonas]

Answer

[Brian H. Chesser]

By your description "Only less than one quarter (1/4) of one (1) side of the (4) sides of this house is COVERED by soil" I would not call it a basement.

[Marcel R. Cyr]

Story above grade: A basement shall be considered a story above grade where the finished surface of the floor above the basement is:

1. More than 6' above grade plane, or
2. More than 6' above the finished ground level for more than 50% of the total building perimeter, or
3. More than 12' above the finished ground level at any point.