Earthquake Commission IQ

Before

Other Actions

There are other actions you can take to make your home quake safe.

Bookshelf Wires

Cord, nylon, or curtain wire, can be strung in front of books etc on a shelf to lessen the chances of them falling or flying off in a shake.

Header Tanks

Some homes have header tanks in the roof space or on the roof. These should be secured. The diagram below shows you what should be done.

Positive-Catching Latches

Use positive-catching (such as child-proof) latches on cupboard doors and drawers (magnetic catches don't hold during shaking).

Storing Heavy Objects

Store large, heavy and/or fragile objects on lower shelves or in low closed cabinets.

Flexible Fittings

Have flexible gas and plumbing fittings installed (by a tradesperson).

Free-Standing Burners

Secure wood burners, standing stoves and gas appliances, with a 12mm or greater lip around the bottom, e.g metal tray with lip (shown below), or with bolts and/or angle brackets.

Foundations

Check that your house is bolted to its foundations and that it is properly braced; if not: Wire, bolt or bracket bearers to piles. Nail strong plywood sheets to the inside of the framing in the sub-floor space. Nail strong plywood sheets to brace and clad outside piles. Infill with concrete (preferably) or nail panels between outside piles on all corners to help reduce twisting motions.

Chimneys

Secure your chimney with galvanised metal angles and bands at top, ceiling line and bottom. Bolt these through the cladding to rafters or ceiling joists. Brace part above roofline.

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