Earthquake-Prone Areas to Avoid When Buying Real Estate in Ghana

Earthquake-Prone Areas can have a devastating impact on both individuals and communities. In Ghana, there are certain areas that are more prone to earthquakes than others. Ghana is not known for having a high risk of earthquakes, and major earthquakes are relatively rare in the country. However, there have been some minor earthquakes recorded in Ghana in the past.

The most seismically active areas in Ghana

The most seismically active area in Ghana is the eastern region, particularly in the vicinity of Akosombo Dam and Lake Volta. This area has experienced minor earthquakes in the past, and there is a potential for larger earthquakes in the future. Other areas of the country that may be at a slightly higher risk for earthquakes include the northern region, particularly around the towns of Paga and Navrongo.

It’s important to note that the risk of earthquakes in Ghana is generally considered to be low, and building codes and standards are not designed to withstand earthquakes as they are in many other parts of the world. However, it’s always a good idea to be aware of the potential risks and take appropriate precautions to ensure your safety. At Quao Realty, however, we do not take chances. All our buildings a designed and built to withstand earthquakes as much as possible.

Reasons to Avoid Building in Earthquake-Prone Areas

As an experienced property development company, we urge potential buyers to avoid investing in real estate in earthquake-prone areas. Here are several reasons why.

Safety Concerns

Earthquakes can be incredibly dangerous and even deadly. Buildings constructed in earthquake-prone areas may not be designed to withstand the forces of an earthquake, and could easily collapse during a seismic event. This can result in serious injury or even death for anyone inside the building. When buying property, safety should be a top priority, and investing in an earthquake-prone area may put you and your loved ones at risk.

Property Damage

Even if a building in an earthquake-prone area does not collapse during an earthquake, it may still suffer significant damage. This could include cracks in the foundation or walls, broken windows, or other structural damage. Repairing this damage can be expensive and time-consuming, and may require extensive work to ensure the safety of the building. Additionally, property insurance may be more expensive in earthquake-prone areas, and may not cover all types of damage caused by an earthquake.

Difficulty Selling Property

Investing in a property located in an earthquake-prone area may make it more difficult to sell in the future. Buyers may be hesitant to purchase a property in an area that is at higher risk of earthquakes, even if the building has not yet been damaged. This could result in longer wait times to find a buyer or lower offers than you may have received in a different location.

Disruption to Daily Life

Earthquakes can cause significant disruptions to daily life. They may result in power outages, water shortages, or road closures, making it difficult to go about your daily routine. In addition, businesses may be closed for extended periods of time, leading to financial losses for owners and employees. Investing in a property located in an earthquake-prone area could mean experiencing these disruptions more frequently than in a less risky location.

Emotional Toll

Experiencing an earthquake can be traumatic, and can have long-lasting emotional effects. Even if a building does not collapse or suffer significant damage, the fear and anxiety caused by an earthquake can be overwhelming. Investing in a property located in an earthquake-prone area may mean constantly worrying about the next seismic event, and the potential damage it could cause.

In conclusion, while investing in real estate can be a lucrative opportunity, it is important to consider the potential risks involved. Investing in a property located in an earthquake-prone area can put your safety, financial security, and emotional well-being at risk. I urge potential buyers to carefully consider these risks before making a purchase and to explore alternative locations that may be safer and more stable in the long term. If you are looking for apartment buildings that are not within the earthquake-prone areas then you should contact us, Quao Realty as we seriously consider that before erecting a building.