Get matched with top earthquake retrofitting specialists in Sherman, IL

Many homeowners want to know whether earthquake retrofitting is tax deductible. Because it’s often considered a capital improvement, you usually can’t deduct it. In some cases and locations, you may qualify for tax incentives, but you’ll need to talk to a tax professional or the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) about your specific circumstances. You may also be able to find grant money for seismic upgrades, which can lower the cost of your insurance premiums and save money over time.

Even if you invested in the cost of a gas shut-off valve for your oven and other appliances, it’s a good idea to add a seismic shut-off valve as an extra safety measure. 

Gas shut-off valves for appliances are manual, meaning someone has to cut off the flow of gas. This leaves room for error, as you might not be home or might be too distracted to think about gas lines during an earthquake. An earthquake valve is automatic and will protect your home from gas-related disasters in the event of an earthquake.

Costs vary as much as timelines. The average earthquake retrofit costs between $3,500 and $8,700. However, homes on hillsides, large homes, and those with rooms over garages can cost up to $12,000 or more. Make sure to get a few estimates to compare the cost and services.

Hearing or feeling vibrations in your house can be unsettling, but there are a few possible causes for a vibrating noise in your wall or floor. Light bulbs and fixtures, circuit breakers, loose pipes, or faulty wiring could all cause vibrations. If you’re not sure what’s causing the vibrations, you can call a contractor to assess your home and narrow down the cause.