La Mirada does not yet have a mandatory soft-story retrofit ordinance, but it is likely the city will adopt similar measures to those of Los Angeles and Long Beach. California’s high earthquake risk makes retrofitting soft-story buildings essential for safeguarding lives and property.
Soft-story buildings are multi-story structures where the ground floor often features open spaces, like tuck-under parking, which lack adequate structural support compared to the floors above. This design makes them particularly vulnerable to collapse during earthquakes. Cities like Los Angeles and Long Beach have responded by implementing mandatory retrofit ordinances to address this risk.
Los Angeles pioneered such efforts with its Soft Story Retrofit Program, which requires building owners to reinforce these structures. Similarly, Long Beach’s Seismic Program targets the resilience of vulnerable buildings, including soft-story retrofits.
California’s seismic activity demands preparedness. Buildings that are not retrofitted face a high risk of catastrophic failure during earthquakes, as reported by NBC Los Angeles. Retrofitting strengthens the ground floor, reducing the risk of collapse and protecting lives and investments.
While the cost of retrofitting varies based on building size and complexity, it is a worthwhile investment. Typical costs range from $60,000 to $150,000. Beyond compliance with future regulations, retrofitting can prevent costly damages and potential lawsuits, offering peace of mind to property owners.
Although La Mirada has not yet enacted a soft-story retrofit ordinance, property owners should anticipate similar regulations in the near future. If implemented, these ordinances will require identifying vulnerable structures and taking steps to retrofit them within specific deadlines.
Proactively assessing your building’s needs and budgeting for retrofitting measures can help you avoid last-minute expenses and compliance challenges. Lessons from cities like Los Angeles underscore the importance of early preparation.
Cities with existing retrofit programs provide valuable insights for La Mirada property owners. Taking action now—by evaluating your building’s seismic vulnerabilities, estimating retrofit costs, and consulting qualified professionals—can ensure a smoother transition when ordinances arrive.
In the coming years, La Mirada is expected to follow the example of other California cities in mandating soft-story retrofits. Preparing now reduces future costs, ensures compliance, and enhances safety for both property owners and residents.
For expert guidance and retrofitting services, consider reaching out to SKS Construction, a trusted name in the industry. SKS Construction Company offers comprehensive solutions to ensure your building is prepared for the future. Learn more about SKS California and read SKS Construction reviews to see how they’ve helped property owners across the region.
