![]() ![]() So if you’re wondering whether or not you should get earthquake insurance, read on for everything you need to know. We’ll talk about what it covers, how much it costs, and whether or not it’s worth it. In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about earthquake insurance in California. ![]() If you’re thinking about getting earthquake insurance, there are a few things you need to know first. In most jurisdictions, however, seismic retrofitting remains voluntary.Earthquakes are a very real risk in California, and they can cause a lot of damage. Some local governments in high-hazard areas have enacted ordinances mandating that owners evaluate and retrofit these buildings. Reducing the Risks of Non-Structural Earthquake Damage (FEMA E-74) was recently updated and is an excellent resource for information on mitigating risk to non-structural components and contents.Ĭertain types of buildings, such as unreinforced masonry structures, have performed poorly in past earthquakes and are known to be particularly hazardous. Seismic retrofitting of a building must also include steps to better protect non-structural components (suspended ceilings, non-load-bearing walls and utility systems) and building contents (furnishings, supplies, inventory and equipment). The FEMA publication Techniques for the Seismic Rehabilitation of Existing Buildings (FEMA 547) provides an extensive description of retrofit techniques for strengthening the structural elements of buildings. This standard, which is referenced in the IEBC, is based on Prestandard and Commentary for the Seismic Rehabilitation of Buildings (FEMA 356). If the evaluation shows that retrofitting is needed, this should be done using Seismic Rehabilitation of Existing Buildings (ASCE/SEI 41-06). The next step is to evaluate the building using Seismic Evaluation of Existing Buildings (ASCE/SEI 31-03). When dealing with a population of buildings, the first step is to perform a quick survey using Rapid Visual Screening of Buildings for Potential Seismic Hazards (FEMA 154). It’s possible to make these buildings more resistant to earthquakes through seismic retrofitting. Unless your community has adopted the latest model building code, including its seismic provisions, new structures in your community will probably not provide the current minimum level of protection from earthquake hazards to you and others who use them. Other jurisdictions have been slow to adopt the latest code editions. Some states and local jurisdictions have adopted the codes but have made amendments or exclusions relating to the seismic provisions. FEMA’s companion document Earthquake Resistant Design Concepts (FEMA P-749) provides a nontechnical background explanation.Īdoption of the model codes is uneven across and within states, even in areas with high levels of seismic hazard. A primary resource is the 2020 NEHRP Provisions Edition Volume I and Volume II. These seismic provisions represent the best available guidance on how structures should be designed and constructed to limit seismic risk.Ĭhanges or additions to the seismic provisions come from many different sources, including new research results and documentation of performance in past earthquakes. Some provisions within the IBC, IRC and IEBC are intended to ensure that structures can adequately resist seismic forces during earthquakes. ![]() In 2000, the three regionally-based model code organizations (BOCA National Code, SBCCI Standard Code and ICBO Uniform Code) combined together to form the ICC. The ICC publishes new editions of the International Codes every three years and many states and localities have adopted them since the first editions were issued in 2000. International Existing Building Code (IEBC): Applies to the alteration, repair, addition or change in occupancy of existing structures.International Residential Code (IRC): Applies to new one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses of not more than three stories in height.International Building Code (IBC): Applies to almost all types of new buildings.The ICC’s family of International Codes includes: Rather than create and maintain their own codes, most states and local jurisdictions adopt the model building codes maintained by the International Code Council (ICC). They specify the minimum requirements to adequately safeguard the health, safety and welfare of building occupants. Building codes are sets of regulations governing the design, construction, alteration and maintenance of structures. ![]()
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