What can cause vibrations in a house?

• <div><p>Hearing or feeling vibrations in your house can be unsettling, but there are a few <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/i-hear-vibrating-motor-sound-my-walls-night-it-my-pipes-or-it-related-air-vents-or-furnace">possible causes for a vibrating noise in your wall</a> 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.</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>

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>

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Q: How do I prevent future damage?

• <div><p>Ensure proper ventilation, fix leaks, and schedule regular pest inspections to protect your property.</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>

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Earthquake Retrofitting questions, answered by experts

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.

Ensure proper ventilation, fix leaks, and schedule regular pest inspections to protect your property.

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.

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.

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 Spooner, WI 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

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