Israel sits on the Jordan Rift Valley, which is an area known for experiencing earthquakes. Furthermore, most buildings in Israel built prior to 1980 are not up to standards required to withstand damages from large earthquakes.
In order to promote public safety and improve the lives of its residents, the Israeli government created TAMA 38, which is an abbreviation of “National Outline Plan.” It allows for developers to easily acquire the necessary permits to strengthen existing structures, while allowing current residents to remain in their apartments throughout construction, and remaining exempt from paying taxes on the improvements.
Residents will benefit from a reinforced structure, and new renovations and amenities added to their own apartments and common areas of their building. Not only that, but the new improvements made to the whole building will increase the value of their apartment, at no cost to them.
As with any construction in Israel, the process involves many different factors which can become tedious. First, the building in question must be evaluated and approved for reconstruction. Then, a developer must get every tenant in the building to give their permission for the project, while simultaneously acquiring the required certifications. After finding private/bank funding, only then can construction begin.
