TAMA 38/1
Structural reinforcement and seismic upgrading of existing buildings under Israel’s national outline plan — protecting lives while adding value.
What is TAMA 38/1 and Why Was It Developed?
TAMA 38 (The National Outline Plan for Strengthening Structures) emerged from an urgent national necessity: protecting lives from earthquakes. The plan was designed for buildings constructed before 1980, an era when Israeli building codes did not yet include seismic resilience (Standard 413). The goal was to create an economic incentive for developers to strengthen old frames in exchange for additional building rights on the roof.
Our Professional Position on TAMA 38/1
"We view TAMA 38/1 as a “patchwork” solution — layering modern systems onto an aging skeleton."
Despite its historic importance, TAMA 38/1 essentially involves layering modern systems and new floors onto an aging skeleton and worn-out infrastructure. In most cases, this is an engineering and architectural compromise. We believe that in today’s landscape, true urban renewal is achieved through demolition and reconstruction — providing a safe, brand-new, high-quality product from the ground up, free from the constraints of the original structure.
Key Milestones in the TAMA 38/1 Process
Engineering Eligibility Check
Verifying the building’s permit date (pre-1980) and ensuring it meets height and area requirements.
Consensus & Agreement
A legal requirement of 67% homeowner consent to sign a binding contract.
Statutory Planning
Submitting plans to the local committee including structural reinforcement, safe rooms (Mamad), and balconies.
Permit Procurement
Managing all municipal interfaces until the official building permit is secured.
Execution (Occupied Building)
Strengthening foundations and building new units while residents continue to live in the building.
Completion & Handover
Renovating common areas, replacing infrastructure, and delivering the upgraded apartments.
Who Is It For?
While we prefer total renewal, there are scenarios where TAMA 38/1 is the most appropriate or only feasible track:
Zoning & Preservation Constraints
Buildings with architectural heritage or height limits that prevent demolition.
Resident Preference
Homeowners who prefer not to relocate for an extended period and are willing to live through a construction site for the upgrade.
Small Plots
Locations where constructing a complex underground parking lot or significantly increasing the building’s volume is impossible.
Economic Viability
Areas where land values do not support a “Pinui Binui” track, but reinforcement remains financially feasible.
Hemli Group’s Operational Approach
When we undertake a reinforcement project, we do so with an uncompromising commitment to High-Level standards:
Honest Consulting
We always present demolition and rebuild as the primary recommendation, choosing reinforcement only when it is the optimal solution under the circumstances.
Rigorous Site Management
Specialized expertise in working within occupied buildings, focusing on cleanliness, absolute safety, and daily communication with residents.
Engineering Excellence
Even in a “patchwork” project, we utilize industry-leading technologies to ensure the result is as close as possible to a new building.
Elite Expert Squad
Deploying top-tier engineers and architects who specialize in creative solutions for existing structures.
Ready to Discuss Your Project?
Whether reinforcement or full renewal, Hemli Group delivers uncompromising quality at every stage.
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