Engineer finds extensive decay at Saluda County Annex; county to weigh repair costs vs. demolition

Saluda County officials were warned that the County Annex building on Main Street has extensive structural and finish deterioration and may require either major repairs or demolition.

Hardy Korn presented a Davis & Floyd visual evaluation dated March 24, 2026, noting severely deteriorated mortar joints and brick, decayed roof framing, extensive water damage and mold, cracked masonry consistent with possible foundation settlement, and bearing issues near the loading-dock opening. "Based on the observations and findings from the 03/24/2026 visual evaluation of the existing structure, Davidson Floyd recommends further evaluations and inspections are performed to determine the full extent of any repairs and or remediation work that may be required," Korn said.

Korn recommended additional surveys for lead and asbestos, termite and mold inspections, brick and masonry assessment, and further structural evaluation once finishes are removed and structural components exposed. He said replacing the roof alone would be costly and that addressing mortar and brick damage would be a major expense; risk management recommended the council consider demolition while noting there may be salvageable elements of the front façade.

Council members asked about the building's age and whether it was secured; Korn said the structure dated to the early 1900s and confirmed it was vacant and power had been shut off. The Chair said the council would not decide on action that night and that the issue would likely be revisited at the June 26 workshop or at the June meeting, noting any remediation or demolition would affect the county budget.

No funding decision was made at the meeting; Korn’s recommendations were accepted as information and next steps were left to future discussions.