How to Earthquake-Proof Your Home: A 16-Step Preparedness Guide for Homeowners and Renters

Earthquakes are an unpredictable threat across the United States, and taking proactive steps to secure your home is the most effective way to protect your property and family. Key actions include retrofitting an older home's foundation, anchoring heavy furniture, securing water heaters, and assembling a comprehensive emergency kit. This guide provides a actionable, 16-step plan tailored for both homeowners and renters to significantly reduce risks.

What is an Earthquake and Why is Preparation Critical?

An earthquake is a sudden shaking of the ground caused by the movement of tectonic plates beneath the Earth's surface. The strength of an earthquake is measured on the Moment Magnitude Scale (Mw), the modern standard that has largely replaced the Richter Scale. This scale is logarithmic; meaning an increase of one whole number (e.g., from M5 to M6) represents a thirty-twofold increase in energy release. Earthquakes with a magnitude of M6.0 or higher can cause significant structural damage, especially to unprepared homes. Because seismic events are impossible to predict, preparation is not optional—it's essential for safety.

Structural Safety and Retrofitting Your Home

The structural integrity of your home is the first line of defense. This is particularly crucial for houses built before 1980, as many older construction standards did not account for modern seismic knowledge.

• Consult a Professional: If your home was built before 1980, it will likely need to be retrofitted, which involves strengthening the structure against shaking. This process typically includes anchoring the wooden frame to its foundation and repairing deep cracks. This can be an in-depth process, so it's advised to hire a licensed contractor.
• Review with Your Landlord: If you are a renter, initiate a conversation with your landlord or property manager. Ask key questions: When was the building constructed? Has it been seismically retrofitted? What type of soil is it built on? Understanding these factors helps you assess your risk level.
• Reinforce Weak Points: Pay special attention to the roof, windows, and exterior features like decks and porches. Regular roof maintenance is critical, as damage can be extremely costly to repair. For windows, consider applying shatter-resistant film to prevent glass from breaking into dangerous shards.

Securing Your Home's Interior and Belongings

During an earthquake, the greatest danger inside a home often comes from unsecured objects becoming projectiles.

A crucial tip from Brad Korb, CEO of LA Homes, is to secure new furniture the same week you bring it home. "Make arrangements during the same week... so you don’t find yourself thinking you’ll ‘do it later’ for too long." Also, ensure you have at least two clear and accessible exits from your home.

Financial and Administrative Preparedness

Physical preparation must be paired with financial safeguards to ensure a smoother recovery.

• Consider Earthquake Insurance: Standard homeowners and renters insurance policies do not typically cover earthquake damage. Earthquake insurance is usually a separate policy or an endorsement to your existing policy. Specific coverage and deductibles can vary significantly by state, so consult your insurance agent.
• Create a Home Inventory: Documenting your belongings can expedite the insurance claims process post-disaster. This home inventory should include photographs or video of each room and valuable items, along with receipts if possible.
• Assemble an Emergency Kit: Your kit should sustain all household members for at least 72 hours, though a seven-to-ten-day supply is ideal. Essentials include water, non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, flashlights, batteries, a radio, portable shelter, and copies of important documents.

Ultimately, the most important step is to develop a family emergency plan that includes a meeting place, utility shut-off instructions, and practice of the "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" procedure. Always refer to resources from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and follow all local building codes and official guidance. While preparing your home can be a process, these steps provide a reliable foundation for safety.