Los Angeles isn’t just famous for its palm trees and skyline. It’s also a hotspot for seismic activity, making earthquake preparedness a necessity, not an option. If you own a building with a ground-level parking structure or large open commercial space, you might have a Soft Story building—and that means your property could be at serious risk when the next big quake hits.

The solution? Seismic retrofitting. It’s not just a safety measure—it’s the law. Let’s break it down so you know exactly what you’re dealing with, what it’ll cost, and how to get started.

What Is a Soft Story Building?

A Soft Story building is a multi-story structure with a weak or open first floor. Think apartment buildings with ground-level garages, storefronts with expansive glass windows, or structures with wide lobbies and minimal support. These designs make the upper floors unstable during an earthquake, causing them to collapse onto the lower level.

That’s why cities like Los Angeles require these buildings to be reinforced under Ordinance 183893—because in an earthquake, these structures are among the first to fail.

What Is Seismic Retrofitting for Soft Story Buildings?

Seismic retrofitting strengthens a building’s structural integrity so it can better withstand earthquakes. Engineers reinforce weak points by:

  • Adding steel frames to stabilize the open lower levels.
  • Installing shear walls to absorb lateral forces.
  • Bolting the structure to its foundation to prevent shifting or collapse.

The goal? To keep your building standing—and more importantly, to protect the people inside.

Who Needs to Retrofit?

If you own a wood-framed building in Los Angeles built before 1978, chances are you’re required to retrofit under the city’s mandatory Soft Story retrofit program. Your building must comply if it:

  • Has two or more stories with wood framing.
  • Has ground-level open spaces like parking areas, storefronts, or large windows.
  • Falls under the city’s list of vulnerable structures (most property owners were notified via official letters).

Single-family homes and smaller buildings with three or fewer residential units are generally exempt from the mandate.

How Much Does a Soft Story Retrofit Cost?

There’s no one-size-fits-all price tag—costs depend on the building size, design, and level of reinforcement required. However, according to the Community Action Plan for Seismic Safety (CAPSS), retrofitting costs typically range from $60,000 to $130,000 per building.

Here’s what impacts the price:

  • Building size and complexity – Larger structures require more reinforcement.
  • Type of retrofitting method used – Steel frames, foundation bolting, and shear walls all come at different costs.
  • Permitting and engineering fees – The city requires permits, and structural engineers need to draft detailed plans.

Why Is Retrofitting Worth the Investment?

Beyond compliance, seismic retrofitting protects your investment in multiple ways:

  • Prevents catastrophic building failure – The cost of retrofitting is nothing compared to the financial loss of a collapsed building.
  • Reduces liability risks – Protecting tenants and customers means fewer legal concerns.
  • Lowers earthquake insurance premiums – Many insurers offer discounts for retrofitted buildings.
  • Increases property value – Retrofitted buildings are more desirable to buyers and renters.

How to Get Started On Your Retrofitting Project

Retrofitting might sound overwhelming, but the process is straightforward:

  1. Schedule an inspection – A structural engineer assesses your building and determines what reinforcements are needed.
  2. Obtain permits – The city requires engineering plans and approvals before work begins.
  3. Hire a licensed contractor – Choose a reputable retrofitting specialist to ensure your project meets safety standards.
  4. Complete the retrofit – Most projects take a few months, depending on complexity.
  5. Pass final inspections – The city will verify compliance before signing off on the retrofit.

Let’s Get It Done

Soft Story retrofitting isn’t just about following city regulations—it’s about protecting lives and securing your investment. If your building is on the list, don’t wait until the next earthquake makes the decision for you.

Get a free inspection and quote today—call 888-690-1561 or contact Weinstein Retrofitting Systems to get started.

Earthquakes aren’t optional. Preparedness shouldn’t be either.