Business Details
36 Years
experience
Earthquake-Resistant Home Solutions in Los Angeles Area
Greg Sylvis, Inc. has been a trusted name in seismic retrofitting and structural safety for over 28 years. Our expertise lies in protecting homes and families from earthquake risks through foundation bolting, cripple wall bracing, and chimney repair. We prioritize honest assessments, code-compliant solutions, and personalized service, ensuring every client receives tailored recommendations based on their property's unique needs. With a focus on education and preparedness, we empower homeowners to make informed decisions about their safety. Our commitment to quality craftsmanship, transparent communication, and timely project completion has earned us hundreds of satisfied customers across Southern California. As a licensed contractor, we adhere to the highest industry standards, utilizing materials and methods specified by the Uniform Code of Building Conservation and the Los Angeles Building Code.Our teams dedication to excellence extends to assisting clients with the Earthquake Brace + Bolt (EBB) program, streamlining the process for grants and permits. Testimonials consistently highlight our professionalism, attention to detail, and the peace of mind our work provides. We serve as a reliable partner for builders, real estate professionals, and property owners seeking expert guidance on structural integrity. By combining technical expertise with a client-centric approach, we ensure every project meets both regulatory requirements and the specific needs of our clients.
Services
Seismic Retrofitting
Foundation Bolting
Chimney Repair
Cripple Wall Bracing
House Bolting
Masonry Upgrades
Structural Inspections
Earthquake Preparedness
Crawl Space Reinforcement
Load Transfer Solutions
Details
- Year established: 1990
Highlights and features
- We offer 28+ years of specialized experience in seismic retrofitting.
- Our team provides honest, no-nonsense assessments of structural needs.
- We streamline participation in the Earthquake Brace + Bolt (EBB) program.
- Testimonials highlight timely, professional work with clear communication.
- We serve Los Angeles, Hollywood, Pasadena, and surrounding Southern California areas.
What people say
Expertise and professionalism
Reasonable cost
Fantastic job
Honest information
Spot-on cleanup
Services
Seismic Retrofitting
Our seismic retrofitting services strengthen homes against earthquake damage by reinforcing structural connections and foundations. We use code-approved materials and techniques to prevent displacement during seismic events. Clients benefit from enhanced safety, property value preservation, and compliance with modern building standards.
Foundation Bolting
Foundation bolting secures structures to their bases using steel reinforcements and specialized hardware. This critical retrofitting measure prevents lateral movement during earthquakes. Our process includes thorough inspections, precise installation, and post-project assessments to ensure maximum effectiveness.
Cripple Wall Bracing
Cripple wall bracing involves installing structural plywood to stabilize short wood-framed walls beneath homes. This prevents collapse during seismic activity by creating shear walls that transfer earthquake forces safely to the ground. Our work follows strict engineering guidelines for optimal protection.
Chimney Repair
We specialize in repairing and retrofitting brick and masonry chimneys vulnerable to earthquake damage. Our services include crack repair, flashing replacement, and structural reinforcement to prevent collapse. Clients receive durable solutions that maintain aesthetic value while ensuring safety.
Structural Inspections
Our comprehensive inspections evaluate entire home structures for earthquake vulnerabilities. We examine foundations, cripple walls, and masonry components to identify risks. Clients receive detailed reports with prioritized recommendations for retrofitting measures tailored to their specific property needs.
People
Greg Sylvis
General Contractor
Greg Sylvis is a licensed general contractor with over 28 years of experience in seismic retrofitting. Known for his honesty and expertise, he personally oversees all projects, ensuring code compliance and client satisfaction. His work has earned widespread recognition from homeowners and industry professionals across Southern California.
Questions
What seismic retrofitting services do you offer?
We provide foundation bolting, cripple wall bracing, chimney repair, and comprehensive structural inspections to earthquake-proof homes.
Do you assist with the Earthquake Brace + Bolt program?
Yes, we help clients navigate the EBB program, including permit acquisition and code-compliant retrofitting to qualify for grants.
How long does foundation bolting take?
Most foundation bolting projects are completed within 2-3 days, depending on the home's size and structural complexity.
What areas do you serve?
We operate throughout Los Angeles, Hollywood, Pasadena, Santa Monica, Glendale, Burbank, and the San Gabriel Valley.
Can you inspect my home's earthquake readiness?
Yes, we conduct thorough inspections of foundations, cripple walls, and masonry components to identify vulnerabilities and recommend solutions.
Are your retrofitting methods code-compliant?
All our work follows the Uniform Code of Building Conservation and Los Angeles Building Code specifications for seismic safety.
Reviews (6)
Henny M.
Nov 04, 2021
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Greg did an extensive retrofit job on my 1908 house when I first moved in back in 2012. My house was built on river rock so it wasn't simply a retrofit but also entailed building a "sister wall". Don't ask me all the specifics b/c I'm no expert but Greg sure is! He's very personable and easy to work with. He put up with all my dumb questions and I believe the guy really loves his job. He would come over at 7am and work all day and I felt very confident that my 100+ year old house was in very good hands. Fast forward almost 10 years and I had to contact Greg about
Alex N.
Aug 25, 2021
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Greg, I would appreciate that we speak about the job you abandoned mid project via phone or email as I do not think that Yelp is the forum to discuss. It seems as though that is the only outlet you will actually warrant a response through unfortunately. Sadly there is no confusion on my end, I wish that we did not go down the path we did with you but I feel it is my duty to warn others of what you put us through. It was not right and we are still financially recovering. I again suggest we take this off of Yelp to remedy what you have done to us. Thank you
Kyle Z.
Jun 03, 2021
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Great work from beginning to end. Greg did a fast, thorough job with the actual seismic retrofit, but just as importantly, he was very communicative about the administrative hoops and hurdles of the EBB program. Also, he has established relationships with the other stakeholders in the process in the local area of Pasadena. I would highly recommend hiring Greg.
Cheers to the Big One, Greg!
Cheers to the Big One, Greg!
Susan M.
Apr 10, 2021
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Greg definitely deserves all the rave reviews he receives. He's professional, easy to work with, shows up on time (a fairy tale when it comes to most contractors!) and does the work quickly and efficiently, for a fair price, explaining everything he's doing every step of the way.
Lauren R.
Aug 13, 2020
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Greg worked with us on the EBB program to bolt and brace our foundation. We received his information from a trusted friend. After receiving other quotes as well, we knew he was the best choice. Greg replied quickly, was easy to work with and made the whole process a breeze. I couldn't have asked for anything easier. He showed up early and on time and finished his work in a timely manner. Highly recommend working with him if you're looking for a foundation contractor!
Rachel B.
Jul 07, 2020
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Called Greg last week after I'd gotten turned down for the California Brace & Bolt program & just decided to move forward with the retrofit without it. He returned my call quickly, came out over the weekend to get me an estimate & then scheduled it days later. Today we got approval on the permit! Just over a week & all was done. Excellent experience, fair price (I did my homework and got multiple quotes) and job very well done. Greg is definitely a recommended hire, you won't regret it.