In many Western commercial districts, historic buildings and earthquake risk are closely linked—even if that risk isn’t obvious from the street. If you own or manage property in a downtown core, an early commercial corridor, or an adaptive reuse district, there’s a good chance the building was designed and built before modern seismic standards took […]
A structural inspection is often the first step in understanding what’s really going on with your building—especially if you’re located in an earthquake-prone area. You may be planning a purchase. You may have noticed cracking or movement. Or you may simply want clarity before making bigger decisions. A structural inspection helps you understand risk, safety, […]
Many business owners have heard the term seismic retrofit, but many picture something far more invasive than what actually happens. Typical concerns include walls taken down to the studs, ceilings removed, entire floors closed, and tenant operations shut down for weeks. In reality, typical seismic retrofits focus on strengthening the structural roof connections that keep […]
Preparing a budget for a seismic retrofit project is a critical step in managing costs and expectations. Creating an accurate seismic retrofit budget requires clear information, early coordination, and a detailed understanding of your building. A precise budget helps you plan, secure financing, and avoid surprises once design work begins. The more information you provide upfront, […]
If you own or manage a commercial or industrial property in the western US, you’ve likely wondered whether your building needs a seismic retrofit. It’s a common concern–especially for owners of older structures who want clarity before investing in any upgrades. This guide explains how to determine whether your building qualifies for a seismic retrofit, […]
Soft-story buildings — those with open ground floors or large storefronts — are among the most vulnerable structures during earthquakes. When the first floor lacks the rigidity to support the upper levels during lateral shaking, the result can be catastrophic: leaning, cracking, or even collapse. Earthquake data and engineering studies underscore the urgency of seismic […]
Roof condensation poses a hidden threat to the structural integrity of commercial and industrial buildings. If left unchecked, it can cause severe structural damage, lead to costly repairs, and create safety hazards, which can result in significant financial and operational disruptions for business owners. Before diving into the risks and solutions, let’s explore what roof […]
Seismic retrofits in occupied buildings don’t have to mean chaos. When property managers hear “seismic retrofit” or “structural repair,” one thought often comes to mind: tenant disruption. Dust, noise, blocked access, late-night phone calls, unhappy tenants—it’s a nightmare scenario for managers who already juggle vendors, compliance, and budgets every day. The good news? It doesn’t […]
Every third Thursday in October, the Great California ShakeOut helps millions of Californians rehearse their earthquake response. On October 16, 2025, at 10:16 a.m., participants will take one minute to “Drop, Cover, and Hold On.” Over the years, the ShakeOut has grown dramatically. More than 10.2 million Californians joined in 2024, and over 10 million […]
Managing a Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) portfolio means constantly balancing profit, compliance, and tenant needs. But in earthquake-prone regions, REIT seismic retrofitting isn’t just smart—it’s essential. It’s tempting to delay seismic retrofits—especially when budgets are tight and daily demands pile up. But waiting to retrofit or repair is often the most expensive choice, as […]