FIRST ON 3 UPDATE: Rotten lumber caused deck to collapse

TO: David Hewett
From: Timothy D. Evans, Director of Planning and Inspections

Subject: 479 OBW (Evaluation of Structural Failure)

Mr. Hewett
Having completed my investigation of the incident that occurred at the above mentioned location my preliminary findings are as follows:

1. The house was built in 1979 and the rear decks were part of the original construction that was completed at that time.
2. Portions of the rear deck released from its supporting members
3. Portions of the structural members released from the bearing members
4. Fasteners released from both the load bearing members and structural elements that made up the supporting elements of the rear deck.

Findings are:
Resulting failure were due to the detrimental corrosive environment that exist in coastal areas. That constant weathering of the structure in the harsh environment decreased the decks ability to sustain the design loading capabilities as built in 1979.

Timothy D. Evans,
Director of Planning and Inspections