Seismic vulnerability of buildings: a review of current approaches and challenges (2000-2025)

Abstract

Background: earthquakes represent one of the most destructive natural hazards for urban areas, especially in countries with high construction informality and scarce technical control. The assessment of the seismic vulnerability of buildings is crucial to prevent collapse and mitigate urban risks. In this context, the present study aims to critically review the methodological approaches developed between 2000 and 2025 to assess seismic vulnerability, identifying their contributions, limitations, and current challenges. Method: The methodology employed was a systematic literature review (SLR), applied under the PRISMA guidelines. Fifty-seven studies were selected from the Scopus database after applying inclusion/exclusion criteria related to language, full-text availability, thematic relevance, and type of document. The review answered four research questions addressing structural factors, normative application, failure modes, and methodological challenges. Results: The evolution of traditional methods towards mixed and integrated approaches, combining visual inspection, artificial intelligence, numerical models, and GIS tools, is highlighted. Key structural factors such as stiffness, age, geometric configuration, and construction quality were identified. Regarding regulations, their partial and uneven application was evidenced, especially in regions with informal construction. The most common types of failures included soft floors, short columns, structural torsion, and progressive collapse. Conclusion: the review confirms that although there are significant advances in methodologies and applied technology, technical and social gaps persist. It is recommended to move towards more contextualized, inclusive and scalable models, as well as to integrate structural strengthening strategies and community participation in seismic risk mitigation processes