Do I need an earthquake gas shut-off valve?

• <div><p>Some cities or states may require you to have an earthquake gas shut-off valve. Your insurance provider may also have requirements for installing this valve. Even if you don’t have to have one by law, it’s wise to have a natural gas plumber install one anyway. These devices can be lifesaving and prevent fires or explosions in the event of a gas leak.</p></div>

Are seismic gas shut-off valves required in California?

• <div><p>Almost all new buildings in California need an earthquake shut-off valve. The requirements for an earthquake gas shut-off valve (and who can install it) depend on where you live. For example, according to the <a href="https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/los_angeles/latest/lamc/0-0-0-186081">Los Angeles Municipal Code</a>, you’re required to hire a licensed contractor to install one whenever you build, sell, or renovate a home. Check with your local building department for your city’s laws on installing, permitting, and inspecting earthquake shut-off valves.</p></div>

Top-rated earthquake retrofitting specialists.

Get matched with top earthquake retrofitting specialists in Marietta, SC

Q: Why do I need earthquake retrofitting?

• <div><p>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.</p><p>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.</p></div>

Q: Can I stay in my home during earthquake retrofitting?

• <div><p>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.</p></div>

Q: Can I DIY an earthquake retrofit?

• <div><p>It is not advisable to try to retrofit your home without the expertise of a professional. These projects usually require a consultation with a structural engineer and a plumber for any gas-related adjustments. Working with a professional earthquake retrofitting contractor is the best way to ensure that any structural work done to your home will help protect you and your family. </p></div>

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Need a pro for your earthquake retrofitting project in Marietta, SC?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Find Earthquake retrofitting specialists in Marietta

HMC Builders Inc

111 Shiloh Rd

5.00(

)

HMC Builders Inc

111 Shiloh Rd

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

HMC Builders is a general contractor specializing in all things gutter! We offer seamless gutter installation, gutter and downspout repairs, and gutter guards. We also service and clean all residential and commercial gutters. We strive to provide excellent customer service and quality craftsmanship.

"I would absolutely hire them again. Superior customer service and knowledgeable technician. We had a "trouble spot" on our roof that we have tried to fix for years. Just could not get water runoff routed correctly so we had cascading waterfalls every time it rained. The technician took his time to evaluate the issue and figured out how to fix it. Great job. No more waterfalls!!"

Laine R on May 2022

"I would absolutely hire them again. Superior customer service and knowledgeable technician. We had a "trouble spot" on our roof that we have tried to fix for years. Just could not get water runoff routed correctly so we had cascading waterfalls every time it rained. The technician took his time to evaluate the issue and figured out how to fix it. Great job. No more waterfalls!!"

Laine R on May 2022

Griffin Electric

Griffin Electric

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 97% of Angi customers

Family owned & operated Greer based Electrical company servicing Greenville/Spartanburg / Pickens areas since 1982. We can handle all of your electrical needs. Residential, Commercial, Industrial, Troubleshooting and Repair, House Upgrades, Panel Changes, Wiring, Lighting, Ceiling Fans, Generator Hookups, and Security Lighting. Call us today for service.

"It went great. Arrived on time and got to work immediately. Finished hard work in good time. Mike and his crew are knowledgeable, skilled, and very pleasant to work with. Have used before, recommended to others, and will use again."

John A on September 2024

"It went great. Arrived on time and got to work immediately. Finished hard work in good time. Mike and his crew are knowledgeable, skilled, and very pleasant to work with. Have used before, recommended to others, and will use again."

John A on September 2024

Earthquake Retrofitting questions, answered by experts

Some cities or states may require you to have an earthquake gas shut-off valve. Your insurance provider may also have requirements for installing this valve. Even if you don’t have to have one by law, it’s wise to have a natural gas plumber install one anyway. These devices can be lifesaving and prevent fires or explosions in the event of a gas leak.

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.

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.

It is not advisable to try to retrofit your home without the expertise of a professional. These projects usually require a consultation with a structural engineer and a plumber for any gas-related adjustments. Working with a professional earthquake retrofitting contractor is the best way to ensure that any structural work done to your home will help protect you and your family.

Almost all new buildings in California need an earthquake shut-off valve. The requirements for an earthquake gas shut-off valve (and who can install it) depend on where you live. For example, according to the Los Angeles Municipal Code, you’re required to hire a licensed contractor to install one whenever you build, sell, or renovate a home. Check with your local building department for your city’s laws on installing, permitting, and inspecting earthquake shut-off valves.

The Marietta, SC 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
•
Aug 15, 2025Aug 15, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Repair Earthquake Damage? [2025 Data]
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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.
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Jan 28, 2025Jan 28, 2025
How Much Does an Earthquake Retrofit Cost? [2025 Data]
Earthquakes can cause serious damage, but you can protect your home. Find earthquake retrofit costs based on the type of home, foundation type, retrofit method, and more.
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Jul 9, 2024Jul 9, 2024
How Long Does Earthquake Retrofitting Take?
Fear not! Steady the shakes, tame the tremors, and get earthquake-ready while we give you a better idea of how long earthquake retrofitting takes.
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•
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.
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•
Jul 23, 2024Jul 23, 2024
Who Should I Hire for Earthquake Retrofitting?
If you live in an older home in an area prone to seismic activity, you likely need to hire a seismic retrofitting company to protect your home from earthquakes.