Is my New York City building safe after an earthquake?

NEW YORK (PIX11) – A 4.8-magnitude earthquake struck New Jersey and rattled New York City Friday morning. As of the afternoon, no buildings have been deemed unsafe in New York City, according to the Department of Buildings.

“There are 1.1 million buildings in the city. What we need is cooperation,” said James Oddo, commissioner for the New York City Department of Buildings. “We need construction managers going out to make sure their buildings are secure.” 

To ensure all New Yorkers are safe, the Department of Buildings will also send out extra engineering and inspection staff over the weekend to check for any damage to buildings within the city. 

“This is a time for that tried-and-true saying: ‘If you see something, say something,’” Oddo said. “If you see something that is problematic, please call 311.”

Is my building safe?

Since 1995, New York City has taken steps to improve its resiliency to earthquakes. Structures are now required to be constructed to modern seismic standards to withstand the impact of earthquakes, according to the earthquake code.

How do I report damage to the building I live in? 

Members of the public who have concerns about building damage in their neighborhood are strongly encouraged to file an official report through 311. 

How do I know if my building structure is compromised?

If you are worried your building might be structurally compromised, reach out to building management. 

“Every property consists of a unique combination of geologic and structural factors that must be considered to determine what might happen during an earthquake,” according to the United States Geological Survey. “Therefore, an individual site study is necessary. Site studies must be arranged by the owner of the property with geologists or engineers in private practice.”

The U.S. Geological Survey recommends reaching out to a geologist in private practice.

The Department of Buildings was not immediately available to provide further information.