The 7.0-magnitude earthquake that struck Northern California in December 2024 serves as a sobering reminder of the seismic risks faced by all of California, including San Diego. While this recent quake caused limited damage, it highlights the urgent need for apartment owners and managers in San Diego to take action to protect their buildings and tenants from the devastating effects of earthquakes.

Seismic Risks in San Diego

Although San Diego is not as seismically active as Northern California, the region is still susceptible to significant earthquakes due to its proximity to major fault lines, such as the Rose Canyon Fault. The 2010 El Mayor-Cucapah earthquake, which struck just south of the U.S.-Mexico border, reminded San Diegans that large quakes can occur closer to home than many realize. This earthquake, with a magnitude of 7.2, caused widespread shaking and damage, particularly in areas along the U.S.-Mexico border.

San Diego’s population is growing rapidly, with many new residents choosing to live in older, affordable apartment buildings, many of which are soft-story structures. These buildings, often built before modern seismic codes were enacted, are particularly vulnerable to collapse during a major earthquake, putting tenants’ lives at risk and threatening the stability of neighborhoods.

Why Soft-Story Buildings Are at Risk

Soft-story buildings, common in older parts of San Diego, feature a ground floor with little or no lateral support, typically used for parking or commercial spaces. These structures lack the stability to withstand the lateral forces generated by earthquakes, making them highly susceptible to severe damage or collapse in the event of a major seismic event. For property owners in San Diego, ensuring the safety of tenants in these buildings is both a responsibility and a practical necessity.

The Economic Case for Retrofits in San Diego

Seismic retrofitting is a cost-effective solution to safeguard soft-story buildings. Retrofitting typically costs between $5,000 and $10,000 per unit, depending on the building’s size and condition. This is a far more economical option compared to the cost of rebuilding lost affordable housing units, which can exceed $575,000 per unit.

Additionally, retrofitting helps prevent the displacement of tenants, especially those in lower-income communities, who are disproportionately affected by natural disasters. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) reports that every dollar spent on disaster mitigation, including retrofitting, saves an average of $6 in recovery costs.

For apartment owners, seismic retrofitting not only protects the building but also lowers insurance premiums, reduces liabilities, and enhances the property’s resilience. Retrofitting provides peace of mind and helps avoid the financial impact of damage from a major earthquake, ultimately contributing to long-term stability and tenant safety.

Protecting Your Investment

For San Diego apartment owners and managers, investing in seismic retrofits is not only an essential step in protecting tenants but also in preserving the long-term value of their buildings. With earthquake risks still present, ensuring that your property is retrofitted will help safeguard against potential devastation and keep your tenants safe in the event of a disaster.

By taking action now, San Diego’s apartment owners can reduce future risks, protect their investment, and contribute to the overall safety of the community.

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