IV. Planning the Work Recommended Procedure

Earthquake upgrading work, including do-it-yourself projects, must follow all building code requirements in order to ensure the effectiveness of the strengthening. For all of the work, the current edition of your local building code should be used. For more complex projects, you should hire a civil or structural engineer or an architect to design the upgrade and provide plans and specifications for the work that needs to be done. The documentation will be necessary for obtaining a building permit and will serve as a detailed guide for the builder.

You or your contractor will need to obtain a building permit from your city or county building department before starting the construction work. The building department will charge you a fee for the permit. Securing a permit for construction makes the alterations legal and ensures compliance with local codes. Illegal alterations may jeopardize future resale of the house. Insurance companies may also use illegal work as an excuse to dismiss a claim in the event of a damaging disaster. Perhaps more importantly, obtaining a building permit will guarantee that building inspectors will inspect the work as it progresses and see that it is being done properly. Call your local building department to determine the length of time it usually takes them to issue a permit.

Last but not least, see that the upgrade work conforms to other codes such as plumbing, electrical, and fire. Don't make your home less safe in other respects while strengthening it for earthquakes.

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