Introducing Kitsap County's Residential Damage Mitigation Program

History has shown us that houses, if bolted to their foundations and walls are braced, can withstand much of the damage incurred during an earthquake.

Homes built prior to 1985 are the primary focus of the “Bolt it-Brace it-Do it” Home Retrofit Program.   Home retrofitting involves bolting a wood-frame home to its foundation and providing sheer/pony wall strength. The goal is to increase a home’s structural integrity.  While a retrofit may not protect your residence entirely, it will minimize your losses and is one step closer to eligibility for earthquake insurance.

Through a free home retrofit class (approx 3-hours), the homeowner can learn about:

• Home evaluation

• Permit process

• Proper bolt and plate installation

• Safety and engineering solutions

Upon completion of this class, the homeowner will be able to retrofit their home themselves or be a knowledgeable client when hiring a state registered, professional contractor to provide this service. 

This event is being sponsored by the Kitsap County Building Departments, the Home Builders Association of Kitsap County, the Olympic Peninsula Chapter of International Code Council and the Kitsap County Department of Emergency Management in coordination with the Simpson Tie Down Company who is providing the hands on training.