3011-3013 Saint Claude Ave.

Staff Recommendations: 

FEMA Survey research indicates the Italianate style residential building was constructed sometime between 1910 to 1920, and it first appears on the 1937 Sanborn map. The current owner purchased the property shortly after it was cited by HDLC for numerous Demolition by Neglect conditions in 2023. After purchasing the property, the current owner applied for a non-structural renovation application and a CofA was issued that included corrections for the violation conditions. However, structural work such as foundation sill replacement and exterior wall re-framing were not indicated in the scope of work submitted or approved. 

On October 16, 2024, HDLC Staff observed active work at the building including partial exterior wall removal and replacement that was in excess of the previously issued CofA (and without a corresponding structural renovation permit from Safety and Permits) and a Stop Work Order was posted.  The applicant has subsequently provided additional information on the current extents of exterior wall demolition and photos documenting the previous exterior wall framing conditions prior to commencement of this work.

Based on the provided photos, portions of the exterior wall framing and foundation sill do appear to show deterioration due to water and/or termite damage, particularly where the wall framing meets the sill. However, the applicant should have contacted HDLC Staff when these deteriorated conditions were observed and before it was determined the framing requires full removal and replacement. For example, it is possible that some of the framing could have been sistered to remain rather than removed and replaced with new. Based on this, because the overall amount of wall demolition is relatively low, and because the deteriorated condition was documented prior to removal without approval, Staff recommends approval of the request for retention and recommends the Commission levy a fine within the Tier 1 fine range of $0 to $8,250 for the unpermitted partial exterior wall demolition.

Additionally, the applicant has also noted that some of the remaining exterior wall framing is deteriorated and will also require further repair/replacement. Per the applicant, approximately 40 FT (or an additional 18.7% of the total exterior walls) must be addressed. Because photo documentation has been provided demonstrating deteriorated wall and foundation sill conditions at these areas, Staff has no objection to the requested additional exterior wall re-framing, with a proviso that existing framing is sistered to remain rather than removed and replaced wherever feasible at these areas.