Severe Weather

Earthquake Retrofitting: The Basics for Homeowners

If you live in an earthquake-prone area, your home's structural readiness matters. Here's a beginner-level overview.

Home exterior showing foundation and retrofitting work

Seismic retrofitting involves strengthening a home's connection to its foundation and improving its structural resistance to earthquake shaking. Older homes are often most vulnerable.

This is a specialized area that requires a licensed contractor assessment for anything beyond securing bookshelves and water heaters. Use this guide as an introduction, not a how-to.

Next StepsUse the guides and free checklists below to keep building.

Earthquake Scenario
Earthquake Scenario
Home Readiness
Home Readiness