Frequently Asked Questions About Retrofitting

Planning on getting your home an earthquake retrofitting but isn’t sure how and what detail you need to know before entirely making up your mind to go for it? Have other questions with regards to earthquake retrofitting which you demand answers on before actually deciding what you would want for your home or apartment? Great! Hopefully you’ll get to find answers to at least some of your questions here. Below is a list of the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) and its answers all about earthquake retrofitting.

How much does seismic retrofitting cost in California? 

The cost of seismic retrofitting in California may vary depending on several factors, including the size of your building and the specific retrofitting services needed. Retrofit1 provides detailed estimates before we begin any work, so you can effectively plan for your project.

What are the retrofit requirements for earthquakes in California? 

To retrofit your building for earthquake safety in California, you’ll need engineering plans, approval from the city, and a construction permit before work can begin. It’s important to work with an engineer who has experience with seismic retrofitting—they’ll make sure the design is cost-effective and not overdone.

Is earthquake retrofitting tax deductible for California residents?  

Earthquake retrofitting may qualify for tax benefits, but it depends on your individual circumstances. Speak with your accountant to determine whether your retrofit project is eligible for any deductions or credits under California tax laws.

Does homeowner’s insurance cover earthquake damage? 

Homeowner’s insurance typically does not cover earthquake damage unless you’ve purchased a separate earthquake insurance policy. Speak with your insurance provider to confirm your coverage options.

How long does the retrofit process take? 

Seismic retrofitting is typically completed between 8 to 12 weeks, depending on the size of your building and the specific retrofitting installations needed. After our initial inspection, we’ll provide a clear construction timeline, so you’ll know exactly what to expect.

Will my tenants need to move out during construction? 

No, tenants do not need to move out during retrofit construction. At Retrofit1, we minimize disruption to your tenants while we work, allowing them to remain in the building while we install retrofitting upgrades.

How does Retrofit1 handle permitting and inspections? 

We obtain all permits and schedule city inspections for your retrofitting project, so you won’t have to worry about administrative details. 

You might have probably figured it out already – earthquake retrofitting a home, an apartment, or any building is not a Do-It-Your-Own project which you can simply go for on your own. In retrofitting, no matter how big or small your property may be, it is best to let the professionals do the work for you. It takes time, effort, and definitely the right knowledge just to have such delicate work done without any problem.