Protect Your Property: The Importance of Soft-Story Retrofitting
- Isela
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Did you know there are over 19,000 soft-story buildings in Los Angeles that need earthquake retrofitting? According to a Caltech survey, these buildings are at high risk of collapsing during a major earthquake — and many of them are older residential or commercial properties.
If you own a multi-story building with open ground floors (like parking areas or large windows), your property may be classified as a soft-story structure — and it could be vulnerable when the next quake hits.
What is a Soft-Story Building?
A soft-story building typically has a weak or flexible ground floor, often with carports, open storefronts, or fewer supporting walls. These structures are known to be unstable during seismic activity and are more likely to suffer severe damage or collapse in an earthquake.
How Retrofitting Helps
A soft-story retrofit reinforces your building's structural integrity by adding steel frames, shear walls, or other support systems designed to withstand seismic forces. This not only protects lives but also:
Prevents costly structural damage
Improves property value
Keeps you in compliance with Los Angeles soft-story retrofit ordinances
Save Money — and Your Building
Waiting until after an earthquake to fix damage is not only dangerous, it’s expensive. Retrofitting now is a smart investment that can save you thousands in future repairs, protect tenants or employees, and reduce liability.
Trust Sinai Construction
At Sinai Construction, we specialize in soft-story retrofitting and foundation repair across Los Angeles. Our experienced team can inspect your property, explain your retrofit options, and guide you through the process — from city permits to construction.
📞 Call us today at (323) 655-0960 for a consultation and find out how we can help protect your building.
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