"Bill" wrote in message
...
Patio "slabs" tend to be slanted so water will drain off and do not have
foundations which will support walls.

If you eventually want an addition, then the "slab"/foundations will need
to be inspected and pass inspection. Also will need to be level and not
slanted.


[snip]

1. Even with a sloped patio slab, you can add leveling material to the top
of the slab to bring it to level. If the patio's foundation won't support
sidewalls, you can pour new footings for walls on the edge of the patio
slab.

2. The amount of hassle you get from city/county building inspectors in
Florida will vary greatly depending upon your location. Big cities + Palm
Beach County may be sticklers, but if you're out in the country -- Hendry,
Highlands, Okeechobee, etc., -- you'll find a more relaxed building code.

3. You could also go to one or more local builders / contractors and have
them visit your place and discuss ideas and costs with you, at no cost to
you --

4. Especially if you have a reasonable idea of what you want, you probably
don't need an architect, you may just need a draftsman, and one of the local
builders may be able to take care of that for you.