As California continues to prioritize public safety in earthquake-prone areas, cities across the state are implementing stricter soft-story retrofit ordinances. These laws aim to address the structural vulnerabilities of multi-story buildings with weak ground floors, which are especially at risk during seismic events. Here’s what you need to know about the latest ordinances and their impact on property owners.

Understanding Soft-Story Buildings

Soft-story buildings typically have open spaces on the ground floor, such as parking garages or commercial spaces, with residential units above. While practical, this design often lacks the structural stability needed to withstand earthquakes. To mitigate the risks, California has mandated retrofitting programs in many cities, including Los Angeles and Long Beach.

Los Angeles Soft-Story Retrofit Ordinance

The Los Angeles Soft-Story Retrofit Program is one of the most comprehensive in California. Enforced by the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS), this ordinance applies to:

• Buildings Permitted Before 1978: These structures are most vulnerable due to older building codes.
• Wood-Framed Construction: Multi-story buildings with two or more units above a soft ground floor.

Key details of the ordinance:

• Compliance Timeline: Property owners are required to meet specific deadlines for retrofitting, from submitting plans to completing construction.
• Retrofit Process: The retrofitting process typically involves installing steel frames, shear walls, or other structural reinforcements to stabilize the building.

For more information on the Los Angeles program, visit the LADBS Soft-Story Retrofit Program.

Long Beach Building Resiliency Program

Long Beach has taken similar steps with its Building Resiliency Program, which focuses on safeguarding structures within the city’s jurisdiction. The ordinance applies to:

• Soft-Story Residential Buildings: These include multi-family residences with soft or weak ground floors.
• Buildings Constructed Before 1980: Older buildings are prioritized for seismic retrofitting.

Details of the Long Beach program:

• Inspection Requirements: Property owners must complete initial evaluations to determine if their buildings meet seismic safety standards.
• Customized Solutions: Each retrofit plan is tailored to the building’s specific needs, ensuring compliance with modern building codes.

Visit the Long Beach Seismic Program for additional guidance and compliance resources.

What Property Owners Need to Do

If you own a soft-story building in California, here’s how to ensure compliance with the latest ordinances:

1. Schedule an Inspection: Hire licensed engineers to evaluate your building’s structural integrity.
2. Develop a Retrofit Plan: Work with professionals to design a plan that meets local requirements.
3. Obtain Permits: Submit your retrofit plans to the city for approval.
4. Complete the Retrofit: Hire experienced contractors to carry out the construction work.
5. Pass Final Inspections: Ensure that all work meets local building codes and seismic safety standards.

Benefits of Retrofitting

While complying with retrofitting ordinances may seem challenging, the benefits are undeniable:

• Enhanced Safety: Protect occupants and minimize the risk of catastrophic damage during earthquakes.
• Increased Property Value: Retrofitted buildings are more appealing to buyers and tenants.
• Legal Compliance: Avoid penalties and ensure your property meets California’s seismic safety laws.

Looking Ahead

California’s newest soft-story retrofit ordinances are a testament to the state’s commitment to earthquake resilience. By acting proactively, property owners can protect lives, preserve investments, and contribute to safer communities.

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.

Take action today to ensure your building’s safety and readiness for the next seismic event.