R404.1.1

Section R404.1.1 is titled 'Design required' and covers the requirements for not using the prescriptive methods of this code for foundation walls where listed loads or arrangements exist. The requirement for engineered design where walls are subject to hydrostatic pressure or supporting a minimum amount of unbalance backfill without permanent support at the top or bottom is established. The purpose of this section is to prevent structural failure.

The model shows a section of a foundation wall which is being loaded by ground water, is supporting more than 4' of earth, and will not be laterally supported at the top.