In this work, we used the Likert scale, field surveys and statistical analysis to measure risk perception and social vulnerability to “natural” disasters. The Likert scale is a psychometric scale commonly used in questionnaires and it is the most widely used scale in social survey research. As case of study we assessed the seismic risk perception and the social vulnerability of the Nonoalco-Tlatelolco Housing Complex (NTHC3) that was one of the most devastated zones in Mexico City during the 1985 major earthquake (magnitude 8.1). More than 10,000 deaths were reported in the country due to this event. Our results indicate that the methodology used in this study is a useful tool to measure risk perception and vulnerability to natural hazards. Also, that NTHC3 has a level of vulnerability between moderate and high because the community perceives: 1) A lack of local organization; 2) Ignorance about the civil protection authorities that can provide support before, during and after a disaster; and 3) The need of knowledge for taking disaster prevention and mitigation measures. Therefore, based on these results, we conclude that local civil protection authorities must promote the community organization and improve their communication strategies by establishing a program to provide technical and social information of how to reduce or mitigate the impact of future earthquakes.