Is earthquake retrofit tax deductible?

• <div><p>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.</p></div>

How much does it cost to retrofit a house for earthquakes?

• <div><p>Costs vary as much as timelines. The average <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-earthquake-retrofitting-cost.htm">earthquake retrofit costs</a> between <b>$3,500 and $8,700</b>. 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.</p></div>

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Q: If my appliances have gas shut-off valves, do I still need a seismic shut-off valve?

• <div><p>Even if you invested in the <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/cost-adding-gas-shutoff-valve-built-oven.htm">cost of a gas shut-off valve for your oven</a> and other appliances, it&rsquo;s a good idea to add a seismic shut-off valve as an extra safety measure. </p><p>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.</p></div>

Q: Besides grounding outlets, how else can I protect my home?

• <div><p>Grounding is a great first step to prevent electrical shock, but you can take it further with GFCI outlets and AFCIs (arc fault circuit interrupters). In particular, AFCIs help protect against the type of electrical arcs that cause fires, like if a mouse chews on a wire or your laptop starts overheating at the wall. These are required in some areas of your home.</p></div>

Q: Can earthquake retrofitting increase home value?

• <div><p>Earthquake retrofitting can increase your home value, making it a great return on investment. This feature is especially valuable in areas prone to earthquakes. Besides the increased safety value (not only for your family but for the next family who moves in), earthquake retrofitting also helps lower homeowners insurance rates. In addition, having your home earthquake retrofitted can make it easier to get a home loan since they are considered lower risk. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Earthquake Retrofitting pros in Wilkinsburg, PA

*The Angi rating for Earthquake Retrofitting companies in Wilkinsburg, PA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Earthquake Retrofitting needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Earthquake Retrofitting companies in Wilkinsburg, PA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Earthquake Retrofitting needs.

Last update on November 19, 2025

Reviewed in May 2019
They were old and he ran into some difficult situations. Molded rotted floor in one bathroom and the drain was put in wrong. Fixed both problems. The other bathroom had a fan on the side wall and he retrofitted a new fan. Very detailed work. Thanks David
Laurel Craftsmen Co., llc.
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Reviewed in November 2017
Mr. Sobien was always on time, and always gave me options which let me decide on my own mix of money and time spent. Some parts needed to be special-ordered or trimmed to size, and the door frames had to be retrofitted to an antiquated, existing structure. The work was done within the time...
Affordable Hands Home Maintenance
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Reviewed in October 2012
We were looking for someone to retrofit the non-functional fireplace in our Victorian home. A friend in the neighborhood who hired Ron Anderson's company said he did a fantastic job on the two fireplaces in her historic home, so we gave him a ring. We had such a great initial meeting that we...
Anderson Chimneys Fireplaces Masonry
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Reviewed in April 2012
When I called for the emergency repair, the woman who answered the phone was very friendly and got me an appointment the next day. When I had a consultation for a new door, the person who came was very helpful in helping me select a door. He also identified that my current door was too tall...
EZ Garage Doors
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Reviewed in November 2010
Tudi was well-rated on Angies List, and my cousin had used Tudi for their Air Conditioning services and had a good experience, so we called to see if they could fix or replace our water tank. We were surprised that the day they sent plumbing specialist Dan Caruso to our place, he offered to...
Tudi Mechanical Systems
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Find Earthquake retrofitting specialists in Wilkinsburg

Lloyd Anthony Construction Inc.

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Lloyd Anthony Construction Inc.

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41 years of experience

Many people search for years to find a good contractor only to come up empty. As a second generation contractor, I can help to solve this problem. I offer master craftsmanship that reflects your distinct style, all within your budget. Lloyd Anthony Construction Inc. is a family owned and operated business established in 1984. Our Philosophy We believe in the highest quality products and services for all of our customers. We believe our customers are our greatest asset, and we are dedicated to serving your needs. We offer personalized service and do all of our own work except when a registered electrician or licensed plumber is needed. We are insured and offer free estimates

Earthquake Retrofitting questions, answered by experts

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.

Grounding is a great first step to prevent electrical shock, but you can take it further with GFCI outlets and AFCIs (arc fault circuit interrupters). In particular, AFCIs help protect against the type of electrical arcs that cause fires, like if a mouse chews on a wire or your laptop starts overheating at the wall. These are required in some areas of your home.

Earthquake retrofitting can increase your home value, making it a great return on investment. This feature is especially valuable in areas prone to earthquakes. Besides the increased safety value (not only for your family but for the next family who moves in), earthquake retrofitting also helps lower homeowners insurance rates. In addition, having your home earthquake retrofitted can make it easier to get a home loan since they are considered lower risk.

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.

The Wilkinsburg, PA homeowners’ guide to earthquake retrofitting services

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

See all articles

Angi
•
Oct 22, 2025Oct 22, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Repair Earthquake Damage? [2025 Data]
Discover how much it costs to repair earthquake damage. Learn about average costs, key factors, and ways to save on earthquake repairs for your home.
Mariel Loveland
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Aug 26, 2025Aug 26, 2025
How Much Does Earthquake Valve Installation Cost? [2025 Data]
A seismic shut-off valve stops the flow of gas during an earthquake, protecting your home from fires and explosions. Here’s what your earthquake valve installation cost will look like.
Angi
•
Nov 4, 2025Nov 4, 2025
How Much Does an Earthquake Retrofit Cost? [2025 Data]
Earthquake retrofit costs vary based on home size, location, and project scope. Learn what impacts your price and how to budget for a safer, more secure home.
Mary Beth Eastman
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Jul 24, 2024Jul 24, 2024
What You Need to Know About Earthquake Gas Shut-Off Valve Installation
Earthquake gas shut-off valve installation is important for any home in earthquake-prone areas. Explore how they’re installed here.
Lauren Bongard
•
Aug 21, 2024Aug 21, 2024
Is Earthquake Retrofitting Worth It? Stay Safe and Boost Your Home’s Value
Is earthquake retrofitting worth the cost and time? Learn whether seismic updates are a smart idea for your home and how to do it right.
Stacey L. Nash
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Jul 25, 2024Jul 25, 2024
Earthquake Retrofit 101: Everything You Need to Know About Prepping a Home for a Seismic Event
If you live near a fault line, your home may need an earthquake retrofit. Find out what you need to know about the process, from costs to who you should hire.