The Mexicans, with whom I've spoken, say they have nothing like what we have with all the permits, inspections, fees. There is a permit for foundation, framing, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roofing, and finish. (In America, there is a permit for EVERYTHING.)
Not too many pre-1900 structures around here. Its not because of storms, or earthquakes. Its because modern termiticide did not come into use till 1940 or so. Many of those old structures became lunch for termites, powder post beetles, etc.
And by 1900 they knew about earthquakes and had built accordingly.