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Nice Construction

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30 years of experience

We have many long-term customers that own homes or commercial properties in and around Ithaca. Some of our customers prefer us to work on a time and materials basis, and some prefer to have a bid. As the business owner, I am always the one to show up to look at and estimate a job. I have many long-term employees, and I also bring in specialists(architects, structural engineers, interior designers, etc.) on a as needed basis. We work out billing details for each project; for smaller bidded projects we typically do half down and then the last half on completion. For larger projects we break it down into more payment stages so our clients don't ever feel overextended but also so we have enough funding to operate in an efficient manner. We can carry financing on projects, yet typically that happens more frequently with commercial work. Payment plans are available. We offer a returning client discount.

We have many long-term customers that own homes or commercial properties in and around Ithaca. Some of our customers prefer us to work on a time and materials basis, and some prefer to have a bid. As the business owner, I am always the one to show up to look at and estimate a job. I have many long-term employees, and I also bring in specialists(architects, structural engineers, interior designers, etc.) on a as needed basis. We work out billing details for each project; for smaller bidded projects we typically do half down and then the last half on completion. For larger projects we break it down into more payment stages so our clients don't ever feel overextended but also so we have enough funding to operate in an efficient manner. We can carry financing on projects, yet typically that happens more frequently with commercial work. Payment plans are available. We offer a returning client discount.

Earthquake Retrofitting questions, answered by experts

An earthquake retrofit is essential for safety in an earthquake-prone area. Without proper retrofitting, your home is at risk of sliding off the foundation, shifting, or collapsing.

You may also require a retrofit if your home was built before 1980 when building codes began requiring reinforcing, bracing, and bolting for new construction. You may not be eligible for insurance to help pay for earthquake-related damages without a retrofit.

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.

A home with proper earthquake retrofitting can sustain minimal damage in earthquakes of up to 7.0 magnitude, although risks are higher based on how close and deep the earthquake is. A home closer to the earthquake epicenter will sustain greater damage, especially if the earthquake is closer to the surface of the Earth, but retrofitting can help minimize the risk of injuries.

Earthquake gas shut-off valves, or seismic gas shut-off valves, are safety devices that attach to your natural gas line. When an earthquake hits, the valve automatically turns off the flow of gas. Earthquake gas shut-off valves can prevent gas leaks, which are especially dangerous after a quake due to the risk of fire and explosion.

Generally, the retrofitting process can take two to four weeks. Your contractor will let you know if staying in your home for the entire project is feasible. However, most people are able to remain at home. If your home is undergoing earthquake rehab, it's more likely that you'll need to leave until work is complete. Your earthquake insurance may cover boarding costs if your home is deemed unsafe.

The Alpine, NY homeowners’ guide to earthquake retrofitting services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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