In a highly seismic area, like Los Angeles, it is important to make sure your home is safe and sturdy from earthquake damage. Investing in an earthquake retrofit can help prevent significant property and structural damage from shaking, which can be costly to repair.
How Do I Go About Earthquake Retrofitting?
In Los Angeles, we have many older homes that are vulnerable to earthquakes. These include homes with raised foundations, post and pier houses, and hillside homes. The ground below these homes can shift causing the house to fall precariously and break the foundation.
This is because these older homes were not constructed to withstand the movement of the ground beneath them.
Luckily, we have a simple solution to protect these homes: Seismic Retrofitting!
A simple retrofit to strengthen your home against earthquakes can save you thousands of dollars in repair costs. Not only will it protect your family, but it can also increase the value of your property.
The cost of a seismic retrofit can vary depending on a number of factors, including your home’s size and age. It is best to consult a structural engineer for more information about your specific home.
It is also wise to consult with a qualified contractor to get an idea of what type of retrofit you need. They can help you identify the most effective solution for your situation, and schedule a timeline to complete it.
You may be able to apply for cost recovery assistance from the California Earthquake Authority (CEA). This program will help homeowners pay for certain work that is needed to make their houses more resilient.
For example, you could receive up to $3,000 to cover the cost of a soft-story retrofit. The money comes from the CEA’s loss mitigation fund, which is a portion of the funds they earn by investing in residential properties.
If you have a soft-story building that needs to be retrofitted, you can apply for this money by filling out the CEA’s application online. Once you have completed this application, the department will review your information and contact you with an estimated amount.
In addition to being a smart investment, seismic retrofitting retrofitt your LA home can improve your home’s energy efficiency. This will decrease your energy costs and help the environment, too!
Whether you are a homeowner, business owner, or a landlord, making your property more resilient to earthquakes is a sound financial decision. Not only will it protect your family, business, and tenants, but it can also reduce your insurance costs.
As with any other major renovation project, it is important to have a plan in place before you start the process. This includes hiring a contractor to do the work, deciding how you will pay for the retrofit, and scheduling a completion date. The process can be a lot to handle on your own, and it is best to have an experienced professional do the job for you!