Hillside properties can present a range of challenges for construction.

In 2018, The California Geological Survey released an earthquake hazard map which showed fault lines running through Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive, an extension of a previously known fault thought to end near the westside of Beverly Hills.

In January 2023, areas in the San Fernando Valley from Chatsworth to Studio City saw landslides and mudslides after downpours. Recently on July 11th, 2023, further south in Rolling Hills Estates there have been landslides and major ground shifts causing a dozen homes to be evacuated. While officials are still investigating the recent activity, it’s a known issue faced by homeowners of hillside properties.

Southern California, and especially the Los Angeles area is no stranger to seismic activity, wind and rain… and there are no signs of this ending anytime soon. Our homes provide shelter, protection, and a sense of comfort. To do that, they need to be structurally sound, and some preparation can make a world of difference.

Here are a few tips to protect your home:

1. Know your fault lines and property history. Check the maps on the Ca.Gov website: https://maps.conservation.ca.gov/cgs/gmc/ provided by The California Department of Conservation and California Geological Survey.
2. Have a geological survey done on the property to address any issues and make sure that the ground is secure and safe for building what you want to build. Your property may require a retaining wall or caissons to make sure your building is secure.
3. Try to build with the land, not against it. This can also be true with plant life, strong root systems can help support the ground soil.
4. Consider moisture levels. Landslides can be caused by heavy water seasons, and can even show up several months after a rainy season. Have a professional evaluate the drainage on your property - both to protect your own property, and your neighbors. Don’t divert water drainage where it may affect your neighbor’s property or you may be held responsible.
5. Use flexible pipe fittings to prevent leaks in the event of ground movement or a landslide.
6. Check your foundation and structure. If you have a pier and post foundation, it should have a continuous foundation around the edge of the home made of reinforced masonry or concrete. If you have a hillside beach property such as Malibu, make sure the posts haven’t become damaged by the moisture and ocean water which adds extra wear and tear. It may be best to have a professional come and look at the situation if you aren’t sure. While there may be a small fee for a professional to make an assessment, you will be saving yourself in the long run. Before having any work done, always compare a few General Contractors so you have a few opinions, estimates, and that you’re 100% comfortable with your contractor. The same goes for Architects, Engineers, and Retrofit companies.

Another tip, maybe reconsider removing all the walls in the first story of your home… While the open floor plan has become highly sought after by homeowners, it can actually lessen the strength of the home. Homes built on top of garages (also seen in apartment buildings), or where the walls have been removed in order to achieve the open floorplan look, are not as secure as single story homes built with an earthquake resistant foundation. Something to consider before you remodel!

A retrofit is a significant financial investment, but repairing or rebuilding a damaged home would be much more costly and take much longer. While the home is being restored or rebuilt, owners who are driven from their homes must continue to make their mortgage payments which can be a heavy burden, both financially and emotionally.

Unfortunately, there’s no way to completely erase the risks of earthquakes and landslides, but taking precautions and safety measures can help prepare your home.

The State of California provides a Homeowner’s Guide to Earthquake Safety, which you can find here. This is a great resource for Homeowners.

When you are looking to build on a hillside in Los Angeles, contact Advanced Builders & Contractors. We serve all of the San Fernando Valley, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Brentwood, Los Angeles, Malibu, and surrounding areas. We’ve been carefully building the best homes in Los Angeles for over 17 years. Contact us today to discuss your home.