After an earthquake, an owner’s job is not to declare a building “safe.” It is to detect changes, document them, follow official instructions and escalate meaningful signals to building management and competent professionals.
What official evaluation framework exists after the August earthquake?
On August 24, UNGRD published a unified building-evaluation methodology. Its rapid visual phase can produce:
| Classification | Official meaning, summarized |
|---|---|
| Green | Entry/use allowed without restrictions, but it does not mean no damage exists. |
| Yellow | Restrictions on entry/occupancy/use and a detailed evaluation is required. |
| Red | Collapse danger; entry/occupancy prohibited except by authority. It is not, by itself, a demolition order. |
What should you check from outside and in common areas?
- New visible changes to façades, balconies or elements that could fall.
- Damage to stairs, exits or evacuation routes.
- Lift shutdowns or management instructions.
- Water/gas leaks, burning smell or affected electrical services.
- New common-area damage reported by management.
- Any cordoned/restricted area—respect it.
What should you document inside the apartment?
Take wide and detailed dated photographs. Compare with prior images if available. Record the exact position of cracks, loose finishes, doors/windows that changed behavior, pipes, new damp, loose tiles and displaced equipment. Do not paint over a meaningful new condition before it is assessed.
Does a new crack mean structural damage?
Not necessarily, but it also cannot be responsibly diagnosed online. Some cracks affect finishes or non-structural components; others require technical review. Pattern, width, location, continuity and relationship to structural elements matter. Escalate new/growing cracks, deformation, damage across major elements or multiple related signs.
When should you stop using an area and request evaluation?
- When an official restriction/classification exists.
- When building management instructs evacuation or restricted use.
- Visible deformation/displacement of important elements.
- Falling hazards.
- New jammed doors/windows together with cracking/deformation.
- Gas, electrical, water or fire risk.
- Any condition materially changed by an aftershock.
What should a remote owner ask building management?
- Was there an official or technical inspection? Send the report/classification.
- Which areas are restricted?
- Are lifts, pumps, gas, water, power and fire systems operating?
- Was damage reported in the same tower/floor?
- Is a detailed evaluation scheduled?
- What changed after aftershocks?
What changes for an Airbnb with guests?
Reservation continuity comes after safety and access. Where a reasonable restriction exists, the operator should prioritize evacuation/relocation and communication—not protect one night of revenue. Maintain guest lists, emergency contacts, exit instructions and one accountable coordination channel.
Frequently asked questions
Does a green notice mean the building has no damage?
No. UNGRD says green allows use without restrictions but does not mean the building is free of damage.
Can a crack be diagnosed from a photo?
Not responsibly. Photos support triage and documentation; diagnosis depends on context, geometry, element and technical assessment.
What does yellow mean?
There are restrictions on entry, occupancy or use and a detailed evaluation is required.
Does red automatically mean demolition?
No. It indicates collapse danger and prohibits occupancy except with authority, but is not by itself a demolition order.
What if there is an aftershock?
Follow official instructions and reassess any changed conditions; UNGRD notes provisional evaluations may need repetition after new events.
Primary sources and references
Consulted for this edition. Confirm the current version before a legal, technical or investment decision.