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.
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.
Story above grade: A basement shall be considered a story above grade where the finished surface of the floor above the basement is:
- More than 6’ above grade plane, or
- More than 6’ above the finished ground level for more than 50% of the total building perimeter, or
- More than 12’ above the finished ground level at any point.
