"Smaller buildings in the County of Hawaii were allowed to be built on a post and pier foundation which is a very isolated pier with very little connection to the ground.  These did not do well in earthquake conditions.  They would frequently either walk off their piers, or they would collapse.  For those buildings that were on the posts and piers we have developed a retro system of plywood panels that would help to restrain these buildings during earthquake situations.  We think these simple means that involves isolated plywood panels, simple techniques and concrete foundations, very small ones, will restrain your building and prevent it from serious damage during an earthquake."

Keep in mind we are talking about simple rectangular houses that are 1200 sq. ft or less and built on flat ground.  If your house is bigger than that, an unusual shape or on a steep slope, you need to talk to a structural engineer.

"Even though your building may have survived an earthquake at an earlier date, it may be vulnerable to damage from a future earthquake simply because earthquakes can come from a different direction and they do come of greater intensity."