Though Lakewood does not yet have a mandatory soft-story retrofit ordinance, the growing focus on seismic safety in nearby cities suggests that similar regulations could eventually be adopted here. With Los Angeles and Long Beach already enforcing such laws, it's only a matter of time before Lakewood follows suit. Property owners should be aware of what a potential ordinance might entail and how to prepare in advance.

What is a Soft-Story Retrofit?

A soft-story retrofit is the process of reinforcing multi-story buildings that have weak or open ground floors, often with tuck under parking. These structures are more prone to collapse during an earthquake due to their weaker lower levels. A retrofit strengthens the building's foundation and framework, making it better equipped to resist seismic forces and prevent significant damage.

Lessons from Neighboring Cities

Lakewood can learn from the experience of neighboring cities like Los Angeles and Long Beach, both of which have already enacted mandatory soft story retrofit programs. In Los Angeles, thousands of property owners have been required to retrofit their vulnerable buildings to comply with citywide safety standards. Long Beach, too, has introduced a seismic retrofit program aimed at safeguarding structures from earthquake damage.

These programs provide valuable insights into what Lakewood property owners might expect when the city adopts its own retrofit ordinance.

Why Seismic Safety is Critical for Lakewood

Given California’s well-documented history of earthquakes, preparing for future seismic activity is crucial for Lakewood. Even though the city hasn’t experienced a major earthquake recently, the broader region is at risk. Recent quakes, such as those near Malibu, have served as reminders of how unpredictable and destructive seismic events can be. Cities like Lakewood, with older buildings and soft-story structures, are particularly vulnerable.

What to Expect for Lakewood Property Owners

When Lakewood introduces a soft-story retrofit ordinance, several key elements will likely shape the process:

1. Mandatory Retrofitting: Similar to Los Angeles, property owners in Lakewood will be required to complete seismic retrofitting for buildings with soft-story vulnerabilities. These upgrades will improve the building’s resilience during earthquakes, protecting both occupants and the structure itself.
2. Costs of Retrofitting: Retrofitting comes at a cost, which can vary based on the building’s size and complexity. Property owners should begin budgeting for the seismic retrofit cost, keeping in mind the possible expenses related to labor and materials. 
3. Compliance Deadlines: If Lakewood follows the lead of other cities, property owners will likely be given a timeline to complete the necessary retrofits. It’s important to stay informed about these deadlines and plan accordingly to avoid potential penalties.
4. Increased Property Value: Retrofitting not only ensures the safety of a building but can also enhance its market value. Properties that comply with modern seismic standards tend to be more attractive to buyers, particularly in earthquake-prone areas like Southern California.
5. Available Resources: Like Los Angeles, Lakewood may offer financial assistance programs to help offset the costs of retrofitting. Staying informed about these resources can ease the financial burden on property owners, making the process more manageable.

How to Prepare for a Retrofit Ordinance

Although there is no mandatory soft-story retrofit ordinance in Lakewood yet, property owners should take proactive steps to assess their buildings and understand the potential costs. Learning from the Los Angeles soft story retrofit program and exploring retrofit options through professionals can provide valuable insights into the process.

Partnering with experienced contractors will ensure that any necessary retrofits meet future safety requirements. Additionally, by familiarizing themselves with the earthquake retrofit cost and possible financing options, property owners can prepare financially for any future mandates.

Conclusion

While Lakewood hasn’t implemented a soft-story retrofit ordinance yet, it's likely to follow in the footsteps of cities like Los Angeles and Long Beach in the near future. Proactively preparing for seismic safety requirements will allow property owners to manage costs, protect their buildings, and ensure the safety of their occupants. By understanding the process and partnering with experts in seismic retrofitting Los Angeles, Lakewood property owners can be ready when the city’s seismic safety regulations come into effect.

Staying informed and prepared will ensure that Lakewood property owners are ready to protect their properties from future seismic risks.

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.