SUN --:-- · ALT --°
2026-05-12 · Seismic

The 1981 line: old and new seismic standards

NOTE

Japan's seismic code was substantially revised on 1 June 1981. Buildings whose applications for confirmation were filed after that date fall under the new standard; those filed before it fall under the old one.

The essential difference is what each standard sets out to survive. The old standard was mainly concerned with a medium earthquake — around shindo 5 — leaving the building undamaged. The new one adds a requirement for a large earthquake, shindo 6-upper to 7: the building must not collapse, so that lives are protected.

For a buyer this matters in three concrete ways. First, on an old-standard building some lenders shorten the loan term or ask for a larger deposit. Second, if you intend to convert it into lodging, the seismic performance usually has to be evidenced or reinforced. Third, when you come to sell, the pool of buyers is narrower and the exit is harder.

None of this means an old-standard building should not be bought. It means the seismic survey and any reinforcement have to be inside your total cost before you make an offer. When we run the numbers we always keep that item on its own line rather than folding it into "renovation".

Have a specific property to assess?

Send us the property details; we reply first with feasibility and the main risks.