**FREE FOR DOWNLOAD** An electronic copy of this report is available from the FEMA library.
This
guidance evaluates current building code triggers, the influence of structural irregularities
on seismic building performance (in terms of collapse probability), and the
effectiveness of relevant code provisions. The objective of the studies
conducted under this project was to inform and improve U.S. codes and standards
so that structures with configuration irregularities have a level of safety
against collapse in an earthquake that is comparable to that for regular
structures. The publication focuses primarily on design requirements for new
buildings, with limited consideration of the treatment of irregularities for
existing buildings.
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