Navigating the Preconstruction Survey and Monitoring Plan Process in Philadelphia

Construction projects in Philadelphia are vibrant and crucial for the city's development. However, ensuring their success requires careful planning and execution. One essential aspect often overlooked is preconstruction surveys and monitoring plans. In this blog post, we'll delve into their significance, focusing on why they're indispensable for specific construction jobs in Philadelphia.

 Preconstruction surveys encompass various assessments conducted before breaking ground when the neighboring properties are affected. They are necessary risk management tools for both the city and the contractors responsible for the construction. By identifying potential hazards and regulatory hurdles early on, construction teams can proactively address issues, minimizing delays and cost overruns. In Philadelphia, adherence to local regulations regarding preconstruction surveys is paramount, so these surveys are necessary to establish the current state of the all adjoining properties and to assess the amount of work to be done to create the desired structural effects of the new construction.

 Monitoring plans complement preconstruction surveys by providing a structured framework for ongoing assessment. They include site-specific considerations, monitoring equipment, and frequency protocols. Effective monitoring plans are tailored to Philadelphia's unique landscape and regulatory environment.

 According to the Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspection, a preconstruction Survey is required for a property when one of these four conditions are met: 

• When excavation work is more than five feet below adjacent grade and with ten feet of an adjacent building 

• Excavation, demolition or construction work is within ninety (90) feet of a historic structure

• When modifying a party wall (demolition, joist replacement and any additions)

• Severing a structural roof or wall covering that spans multiple properties

The specific instances when we most commonly find ourselves created Pre-Construction Surveys and Monitoring plans are: 

• Additions

• Front porch work

• Work on a basement slab (even just a slab replacement with no digging)

• Basement digging 

• Cracks found in the parti-wall

You can read more specifics about preconstruction surveys and monitoring plans on the city’s website here: https://www.phila.gov/departments/department-of-licenses-and-inspections/resources/construction-that-impacts-an-adjacent-property/#/

Ready to revolutionize your construction approach? Book a call with Jane Draws Plans at JaneDrawsPlans.com. Let's transform your projects from vision to reality, one blueprint at a time.