As recent earthquakes across California have reminded residents, preparation for a major seismic event is crucial. Communities from El Centro to Morgan Hill have felt the earth’s tremors, underscoring the need for comprehensive earthquake readiness. For those living in soft-story apartment buildings, seismic retrofitting is a vital part of this […]
Many older apartment buildings do not meet current earthquake safety standards and often lack the modern amenities tenants seek. If your building was constructed before the mid-1970s, upgrading both its structural safety and interior design is highly recommended.
Seismic Upgrades with Modern Enhancements
Optimum Seismic, Inc. specializes in making these upgrades seamless. […]
Nobody knows exactly where or when the next major earthquake will strike, but we do know that quakes are inevitable in California and many other states.
It’s also clear what types of buildings will likely suffer the most damage from seismic shaking.
Beyond these basic points, it’s always best to assess your […]
How would a major earthquake impact California’s growing homeless population?
In 2019, the number of people in the state without homes grew by more than 21,300 people, or 16.4% — more than all other states in the nation combined — the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development reported. It rose […]
For as long as earthquakes have shaken the ground, they’ve sparked fear, uncertainty, and even superstition. In ancient times, many believed these powerful events were caused by angry gods, mythical giants, or enormous creatures hidden beneath the earth. The Japanese believed a giant catfish living at the bottom of the […]
Most Californians have experienced earthquakes. There are the large ones – sudden, jarring jolts followed by more strong shaking that can last from a few seconds to a couple of minutes. Farther away, these feel like a gentle “bump,” often followed by more rolling shaking.[i]
When a small quake strikes nearby, […]
Apartment owners faced with any major renovation, repair or alteration of their building are often concerned with the impacts construction could have on their tenants — and whether the work will require added expenses.
These extra costs can include paying for additional precautions to minimize impacts, establishing alternative parking when assigned […]
Interactive USGS map lets you zoom in to see for yourself
How vulnerable is your apartment to earthquake damage?
If it is located within a fault, landslide, or liquefaction zone, it may be at risk – and a combination of any of these could be disastrous.
Active earthquake faults in Orange County run […]
We were all shaken by reports of February’s earthquake disaster in Turkey and Syria. Nearly 50,000 were confirmed dead, and at least 164,000 buildings collapsed or were so badly damaged they need to be demolished. From the comfort of our homes, it’s easy to think we are immune to such […]
Many older apartment buildings still contain hazardous materials like asbestos and lead-based paint. While some owners may downplay the risks or feel tempted to cut corners during renovation work, doing so can lead to serious consequences.
Improper removal can expose workers and tenants to harmful toxins and result in environmental contamination. […]
