Earthquake retrofitting or seismic retrofitting involves modifying or reinforcing buildings, including individual homes, condominium buildings, and apartments to enhance their resistance to earthquake damage by reinforcing structural elements such as foundations, walls, and connections.

Common techniques include bracing chimneys, bracing walls with plywood, bracing water heaters, strengthening foundations by adding helical piers, and bolting or anchoring the wood framing to the concrete foundation using foundation plates and large anchor bolts.

Retrofitting can reduce earthquake damage, reduce insurance costs, improve the value of the property, and reduce the risk of injuries. Always consult with a geotechnical engineer before retrofitting a building.

Earthquake Insurance

California Earthquake Authority

Glossary of Earthquake and Landslide Terms

Earthquake Fault Zones