Shaff, Leanna (CI-StPaul)
From:Karpen,Brian(CI-StPaul)From:Karpen,Brian(CI-StPaul)
Sent: 
Wednesday, 
October 
23, 
2013 
11:12 
AM 
To: 
Shaff, 
Leanna 
(CI-StPaul) 
Cc: 
Bloom, 
Jim 
(CI-StPaul); 
Ubl, 
Stephen 
(CI-StPaul) 
Subject: 
397 
Case 
Ave 


Leanna: 

Per our discussion and observations at 397 Case Ave this morning. As you identified I also have serious concerns 
regarding the structure of this property. There are two major points structurally that need to be addressed: 

1) The north wall appears to be constructed of brick on top of a limestone "rubble" foundation wall. The exterior of 
both this brick as well as the limestone foundation wall that is above grade shows serious issues with degradation, most 
likely due to water infiltration and lack of maintenance. In the basement the base of the wall shows signs of previous 
water infiltration and degradation. 

2) The entire building appears to be listing toward the east. This is likely caused by the unbalanced soil load on the west 
side of the building. I would estimate that the height of soil retained on the west side of the building is greater than 8' 
and the unbalanced load could be further increased by surcharge from the house next door. It is difficult to estimate the 
amount of deflection to the east but it is clearly visible to the eye from the exterior, observation of interior finishes, as 
well as visible cracking in the exterior stucco finish. 

I would recommend that the C of O for this building not be issued without a report from a structural engineer registered 
in the State of Minnesota that addresses the overall stability of the building and specifically addresses the two points 
above. Further if this report recommends repairs to ensure the stability of the building those should be completed prior 
to issuing the C of O. 

Of course my assessment is meant to address only the structural issues with the building and any other concerns you 
have should be addressed prior to issuing the C of O as well. Please let me know if you have any questions or need 
further clarification. 

Brian Karpen, P.E. 
Structural Engineer 
Department of Safety and Inspection 
375 Jackson Street #220 
Saint Paul, Mn 55101 
Tel: 651-266-9072 
Email: brian.karpen@ci.stpaul.mn.us 

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