Wind, Hurricane, Seismic and Wildfire-Prone Sites

Use destination hazard data

Design wind speed, exposure, seismic category and wildfire requirements vary by location. The modular approval package must incorporate the correct criteria.

Transport strength is not a substitute for final lateral-load design or foundation anchorage.

Coordinate the whole site

Garages, porches, decks, carports and utilities can create weak links if designed separately. Defensible space and access may matter as much as module materials in wildfire regions.

Impact-resistant openings, roof attachments and exterior cladding should be specified and documented where required.

Inspect after events

High winds, earthquakes or wildfire exposure can affect connections and concealed interfaces. Follow local re-entry guidance and obtain qualified assessment when damage is suspected.

Keep plans and connection details available for inspectors and repair professionals.

Apply this guide to a real project

For wind, hurricane, seismic and wildfire-prone sites, create a dated project note tied to the destination address and current drawing revision. Identify the authority, designer, factory or contractor responsible for each unresolved item. Attach the written evidence for ‘Which hazard criteria appear on the approved plans?’ and ‘Do site-built additions follow the same load path and exposure assumptions?’ rather than recording a verbal assurance.

Before a deposit, production release, shipment or final payment, convert every open question into a named action with an owner and deadline. Keep superseded drawings and decisions in the record so later inspectors, lenders, insurers and future owners can understand why the completed house differs from an early sales plan.

Questions to resolve before proceeding

• Which hazard criteria appear on the approved plans?
• Do site-built additions follow the same load path and exposure assumptions?
• Are foundation anchors and module connections inspectable?
• What post-event inspection plan applies?