Modular homes can be found in earthquake and seismic zones. Each house design is individually engineered to meet local seismic code requirements and to adapt to the natural terrain, utilizing one among the many foundation options available.
The biggest misconception is that modular homes are flimsy and fall apart easy. The fact of the matter is that the new modular homes are built as strong as or stronger than conventional homes. Earthquake hazard levels are based on the seismic risk and the damage anticipated from major seismic events.
A unique approach of integrating post and beam construction technology with almost any foundation type makes modular homes adaptable to nearly any terrain, climate or design need. Foundation types include stilts & pilings, basements, crawl-spaces, and on-grade slabs.
Dependent upon the specific location and the condition of the soil, various approaches are employed to stabilize the home foundations. Slab foundation homes often only require large steel-reinforced floating slabs, but in some circumstances where soil conditions are poor, steel-reinforced grade beams may also be required. In other settings, foundations may actually have to be pinned to stable rock formations below. And in the most extreme seismic areas, anchoring foundations deep in the ground to stabilize pilings may be necessary.