Soft-story retrofits are not just about compliance with California’s seismic ordinances; they also provide tangible economic and safety benefits for property owners and tenants. Retrofitting improves a building’s structural integrity, enhances its market value, and ensures the safety of its residents during earthquakes. Here's why investing in a soft story retrofit is a smart decision […]
Cracked balconies are not just unsightly—they’re a safety concern. From weather damage to structural issues, cracks can form for various reasons. Understanding how to fix them promptly is crucial for both aesthetic and safety reasons. Here's how you can address the issue. Common Causes of Balcony Cracks How to Repair Cracked Balconies When to Call […]
California’s housing crisis has been a persistent challenge, and legislative efforts like Senate Bill 8 (SB 8) aim to address this issue by streamlining housing development. Signed into law in 2021 as part of a broader effort to combat the state’s housing shortage, SB 8 extends provisions of the Housing Crisis Act of 2019 (SB […]
Building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is an exciting way to maximize the value of your property. Whether it’s for additional rental income, a home office, or housing for extended family, an ADU can be a smart investment. But let’s face it: time is money. The longer the project takes, the more it costs, and […]
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 […]
Soft-story retrofitting is a critical process for improving the safety and stability of vulnerable buildings in earthquake-prone areas. Whether you’re a property owner new to the retrofitting process or someone seeking more clarity, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the journey—from the initial inspection to final compliance approval. Step 1: Conduct an Initial Inspection […]
Soft-story buildings, while common in urban areas, pose significant structural risks during earthquakes. Their unique design creates vulnerabilities that can lead to catastrophic failures if not addressed. In this blog, we’ll explore why these buildings are at risk and the science behind soft-story retrofit solutions that mitigate these dangers. What Are Soft-Story Buildings? Soft-story buildings […]
Long Beach is taking a proactive approach to safeguarding its residents and properties through the Building Resiliency Program. This initiative is designed to address the seismic vulnerabilities of certain building types, particularly those constructed before modern earthquake safety standards were implemented. As earthquakes pose a significant risk in Southern California, especially along major fault lines […]
As California continues to prioritize earthquake safety, many cities have implemented mandatory soft-story retrofit ordinances to protect residents from seismic risks. While Bell City has not yet adopted such regulations, neighboring cities like Los Angeles and Long Beach have taken significant steps to reinforce their vulnerable structures. With the increasing frequency of seismic activity in […]
While cities like Los Angeles and Long Beach have implemented mandatory soft-story retrofit programs to address the seismic vulnerabilities of older buildings, Norwalk has yet to follow suit. However, it's only a matter of time before cities across California, including Norwalk, implement similar ordinances as part of the state's broader effort to improve earthquake resilience. […]
