Retrofit Classes

For Homeowners

In this two-hour class, you'll learn how to evaluate your home to determine if it qualifies for the standard earthquake retrofitting plan. You'll also find out:

• How to retrofit your home using Project Impact's Regional Home Retrofit guidelines
• Tool usage and proper installation of parts
• How to brace pony walls
• How to secure the first floor framing
• Which engineering solutions can be applied to your home, and when
• The expedited permit process regionally and building code requirements - why are they important?
• Safety issues
• Consumer information - How  to work with one of the trained contractors

By using a "model" wall and tools, we will demonstrate correct usage of retrofitting methods and materials. Each participant will also receive a packet of literature and detailed drawings. This class is designed for all homeowners, whether you're planning to do the work yourself or hire a qualified contractor.

Cost:  FREE

A number of classes are being offered in Seattle, with additional classes being added around the Puget Sound region. For information on dates, locations and registration call 1-877-2-BOLT-IT.

Remember: if you are going to hire a one of the trained contractors to retrofit your home, we still recommend that you attend a class to understand the process and to be a better informed consumer.

Classes were developed in partnership with the Phinney Neighborhood Association

Earthquake Home Retrofit Training for Building Professionals and Licensed Contractors

This six-hour professional workshop provides a consistent, approved approach to the earthquake (seismic) retrofit of older, wood-frame homes regionally to reduce earthquake-induced damage. Course highlights are:

• Includes basic concepts of earthquake design; characteristics of homes qualifying to use the Standard Earthquake Home Retrofit (SEHR) plan; earthquake retrofit work needed to implement the standard plan; permit application requirements; and legal and safety considerations.
• Reflects a collaborative effort among Seattle Emergency Management's Project Impact, the UW Department of Construction Management, FEMA, and multiple jurisdictions' building departments around the Central Puget Sound area.
• Enables builders, contractors, engineers, architects, inspectors, etc. to enhance their skills and potentially expand their business into new areas. Attendees receive a Certificate of Participation; and names of licensed professionals who complete this course (and are interested in expanding their business) will be made available to homeowners regionally.

Registration Information

TO REGISTER for the Earthquake Home Retrofit Training call (206) 543-2310 or (800) 543-2320. For a schedule, see our calendar.

Questions about class-content only, call Trisha Dvorak, UW Program Manager, at (206) 685-6443 or e-mail: certif2@u.washington.edu  

Earthquake Home Retrofit Professional Workshops scheduled and taught by our partners University of Washington and University of Washington Extension.