What Is the San Francisco Concrete Building Safety Program (CBSP)?

San Francisco is launching a new Concrete Building Safety Program (CBSP) targeting nearly 4,000 older concrete buildings that may not meet modern earthquake safety standards. These are primarily non-ductile concrete buildings built before 1984—structures that may perform poorly in major seismic events. 

The city’s proposed ordinance will require owners of concrete buildings to conduct a seismic safety screening by a licensed Structural Engineer and associated forms submitted to the City. These reports will likely need to be submitted within 18 months of the ordinance’s effective date (no date has been finalized at this time) and will help the city assess which buildings may pose a risk to life safety. 

Important note: This policy does not require seismic retrofitting, but it sets the stage for future action, and early evaluation gives owners time to plan and act wisely. 

Why It Pays to Act Now

If your building is on the city’s preliminary list—or if you suspect it could be—it is smart to get ahead of the curve. Here is why: 

• The list may be inaccurate. The list was developed by volunteers estimating building type from the sidewalk. However, more detailed screening is needed. A seismic screening by Forell Elsesser can confirm whether your building will be part of any future ordinance, or help you remove the building from the list altogether. 
• Retrofitting ordinances will be forthcoming. Proactive evaluations allow more time and flexibility to budget, plan, and minimize disruption. For most buildings, there are likely benefits to early voluntary seismic upgrades. 
• Financial incentives and lower costs are available now. Early action could save you money compared to a rushed response under future mandates. 

How Forell | Elsesser Helps Owners Comply and Prepare

At Forell | Elsesser, we specialize in non-ductile concrete building evaluations and seismic retrofits. Our engineering team is well-versed in the CBSP’s seismic safety screening requirements, and we offer end-to-end support tailored to your building’s needs. 

Our services include:

• San Francisco Seismic Safety Screening for concrete buildings  
• Seismic evaluations for more detailed insights into existing buildings seismic hazards and risks 
• Peer reviews, constructability reviews, and second opinions of designs by others 
• Planning support for anticipated retrofit mandates 
• Full-service retrofit design and implementation 
• Full Turn-key Design and Builder insights into building upgrades by F|E and strategic partners 

Explore our expertise in non-ductile concrete structures to see how we have helped other clients strengthen safety while preserving value.

Why Work with Forell | Elsesser?

Our team has been at the forefront of seismic risk mitigation in San Francisco for decades. In fact, we have written the book—literally—on non-ductile concrete structures. We’ve worked with universities, hospitals, museums, and commercial property owners to strengthen their buildings while respecting their budgets, schedules, and goals. Our team understands what it takes to make your property safer—and code compliant—without disrupting your operations. 

Whether your building houses offices, tenants, or cultural assets, we offer:

• Proven retrofit strategies for real-world constraints 
• Deep experience with San Francisco code and permitting 
• A collaborative, client-focused approach from start to finish 

Take the First Step Toward Compliance—and Peace of Mind

Not sure if your building is affected? Curious about what a seismic safety screening involves? We’re here to help. 

Contact us today to schedule a consultation or learn more about how we can support your building’s seismic safety goals.