Los Angeles & Orange County
Seismic Evaluation
A seismic evaluation is a structural look at your house that tells you exactly how it would perform in an earthquake — and what, if anything, to do about it.
For homeowners deciding whether a retrofit is worth it, buyers in escrow, and anyone who got a scary bid from someone else and wants a straight answer before anyone sells them anything.
Do You Actually Need This?
You likely need it if…
- You own a pre-1980 home and want to know where you actually stand.
- You're buying a house with a raised foundation and want the answer before escrow closes.
- You got an insurance letter or a scary bid from someone else and want a second opinion.
You likely do not need it if…
- Your home was built after 1980 on a slab and hasn't been altered — modern code already covered it.
- You already have a completed retrofit with documentation. Keep the paperwork; you're done.
If your house doesn’t need it, we’ll tell you that at the evaluation. That’s the whole point of doing one.
How the Work Goes
Duration: 30–45 minutes on site; findings within 2 business days. Disruption: None. We need crawlspace access and about 45 minutes.
1
On-site inspection
30–45 minutes. Crawlspace, foundation, framing connections, chimney, water heater strapping, and gas shutoff.
2
Written findings
What we found, with photos, in plain English. What needs work, what doesn't, and what order to do it in.
3
Firm quote — or a handshake
If work is warranted you get a firm quote with no obligation. If it isn't, we tell you that and leave. That's the promise.
Get Your Free Evaluation
30–45 minutes on site. Written findings with photos. A firm quote if work is warranted — and a straight “you don’t need it” if it isn’t. No obligation either way.
Related
Do I Need a Retrofit? →Seismic Evaluation — Common Questions
Is the evaluation really free?
Yes. It's how we earn the retrofit work when it's warranted, and how we earn your referral when it isn't. No trip fee, no obligation.
What do you check during a seismic evaluation?
Foundation type and condition, anchor bolts, cripple walls and bracing, post-and-pier connections, chimney condition, water heater strapping, and gas shutoff.
Will you pressure me with a deadline or a discount that expires today?
No. Retrofit decisions are four-figure decisions and you should make them at your own pace. The findings are yours either way.
Can you review a bid I got from another contractor?
Yes — bring it. We'll tell you line by line what's necessary, what's optional, and what's padding. Second opinions are a family tradition.
Get a Straight Answer About Your House
A free 30–45 minute evaluation, written findings, and a firm quote — or an honest “you don't need it.” No pressure either way.
Free estimates. Cash, senior, and military discounts.