Experts say that a major earthquake is expected to hit the Bay Area within the next 30 years, but the question remains: Are Bay Area buildings prepared?
The San Francisco Department of Building Inspection is requiring property owners to “seismically strengthen vulnerable buildings” that could increase danger during an earthquake and in their Friday deadline for the “Tier 3” permit nearly 500 buildings did not comply.
“We will post a placard on their building saying this building is not in compliance and earthquake safe. They will also receive a notice of violation,” said Director of San Francisco’s Department of Building Inspection, Tom Hui.
In order to qualify for these permits, the department requires buildings to go through a screening process and inspection to undergo a “seismic retrofit.”
Hui says the department does not want to charge a penalty, but property owners who fail to comply will eventually receive a final notice and will be referred to a city attorney.
