4.3 Tolerable settlement

As discussed above, limits on uniform settlement are usually associated to the function of the building e.g., access, connection to services etc. Limits on differential settlement (or differential deflection) and angular distortion, which are defined in Figure 4.6, depend on the type of the structure, and on the properties of the load-bearing frame. Building codes and standards, such as AS2870, impose limits on the maximum differential settlement to prevent e.g., cracks in masonry walls. Such limits for residential slabs and footings are presented in Table 4.1. Poulos et al. (2001) summarise typical limit values of uniform settlement, angular distortion, tilt and deflection for various types of structures. These limits are presented in Table 4.2. Of course other, perhaps stricter, project-specific limits may apply.