Essay topic: Imagine that you’ve decided to purchase a historic (over 50 years o

Question

Essay topic: Imagine that you’ve decided to purchase a historic (over 50 years old – think about why this age would be important) home near downtown Fremont, California. Discuss what you should check about this home with respect to earthquake hazards. If there is a potential hazard that could be minimized, explain how that could be done. Give specific details relevant to an older home in Fremont in the East Bay. (350-400 words)

This is what I have so far:

If I were to buy a home located near downtown Fremont, California, there are a number of things I would research prior to finalizing the purchase.

First, I would double check whether the house is located on top of a fault. Disclosure laws are required in order to protect you when buying a property and legally you have to be informed before purchasing the home. I would also research on the materials that were used to build the home as well as how strong those materials are against earthquakes.

Explanation / Answer

Answer:

Mapping and studying Earthquake zones is the best way to avoid any kind of damage to property and life. You can obtain seismic maps for the same that will detail the intensity of earthquakes and its history of occurrence in the area.

Construction of the house is of prime importance in such a scenario. You can keep an eye out for having lightweight roof, cross bracing trusses that add support to the house during tremors and shake-resistant frames. All these things must be guaranteed by the builder along with having specific building codes provided by the government to assure the construction quality and the calculated risk factors.

People in Japan use specialised adjusting stands that make sure cupboards and other standing structures are fixed to the roof and do not topple down. Industry standard sticky pads are also used to stick furniture etc. to the floor.

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