News & Promotion

Earthquake-Resistant House Chiang Mai: Seven Questions for Your Engineer

After the earthquake of 28 March 2025, families understandably asked whether their homes were safe. A responsible professional should not replace engineering with a promise of “100% earthquake proof.” Better questions concern the information used, the people responsible and the evidence that construction follows the design.

A professional lesson from 2025

The Council of Engineers reported that a joint post-earthquake building-assessment centre operated from 5–30 April 2025, coordinating systematic assessments and specialist repair advice. The response underlined the difference between noticing a crack, screening possible damage and a qualified engineering evaluation.

Seven questions before structural drawings are approved

1. What site and soil information is being used?

Location, slope, levels and soil affect foundation and structural decisions. Ask what survey or investigation is appropriate for the actual project.

2. Which regulations and standards apply?

The team should identify the applicable documents and editions for the building and location, rather than relying on the phrase “to standard.”

3. How does the structural system transfer loads?

Owners do not need to calculate it, but they should understand the route through roof, floors, beams, columns, walls and foundations.

4. Which connections and details are critical?

Reinforcement continuity, laps, roof connections, openings and cantilevers need buildable details. They should not be improvised from architectural drawings.

5. Who signs and who supervises?

Check licence level, scope and roles of designer, supervisor and contractor. A licence establishes responsibility; it does not by itself prove every site step was correct.

6. How will concealed work be checked?

Set inspection points before concrete placement or finishes cover the work, and retain appropriate photographs, reports and test records.

7. What happens after an event?

Keep current drawings, contacts, main shut-off locations and a procedure for unusual damage. Cracks do not all mean the same thing; ask a qualified engineer when conditions are uncertain.

Frequently asked questions

No cracks means complete safety?

No. Visual appearance alone may not be enough after a significant event or when unusual movement is suspected.

Is more steel always safer?

No. Structural system, proportion, detailing, connections and construction quality must follow engineering design.

Do single-storey homes avoid seismic requirements?

Requirements depend on the building, location and applicable law. The project engineer must check.

Does Greenery promise an earthquake-proof house?

No absolute promise is responsible. The focus is licensed design, coordinated details, supervision and traceable inspections within the project scope.

Build confidence from evidence

Explore our design-and-build service, review projects, or book a free initial architect consultation. It excludes free drawings or house design.

Sources

Council of Engineers Thailand, progress update following the 28 March 2025 earthquake, 20 May 2025; Council of Engineers, post-earthquake guidance. Accessed 22 August 2026.