California Rental Property Owners Eligible for Earthquake Retrofit Grants

California Rental Property Owners Eligible for Earthquake Retrofit Grants

California rental property owners now have a new opportunity to make their older rental homes safer against earthquakes. The Earthquake Brace + Bolt (EBB) program, managed by the California Residential Mitigation Program (CRMP), is offering grants of up to $3,000 per home to help cover seismic retrofitting costs. This year, for the first time, the EBB program has expanded to include non-owner-occupied residences. A total of more than $20 million is being allocated statewide for both homeowners and rental property owner applicants.

• Registration for the EBB program grant round runs from August 20 through October 1, 2025.

What Makes Your Property Eligible?

To qualify for the EBB program grant, a property must meet these criteria:

• Type: Wood-frame home built before 1980 with a raised foundation or crawl space.
• Location: Within one of the 1,100+ eligible ZIP codes across California, including 303 ZIP codes added earlier in 2025 in areas like Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Diego.
• Occupancy: This year’s expansion allows non-owner-occupied residences, such as rentals and second homes, to apply (previously restricted to owner-occupied homes only).
• Structural Compliance: Must not have already completed a brace and bolt retrofit.

What Retrofits Are Included?

The EBB program retrofit generally includes three key upgrades designed to stabilize the home during seismic activity:

1. Brace the cripple walls (short wooden walls in the crawl space) using plywood or OSB sheathing;
2. Bolt the house to its foundation, securing the structure to resist sliding or toppling; and
3. Strap the water heater to prevent it from tipping, which could cause fire, water damage, or line breaks.

Here's How You Can Apply for the EBB Program

1. Go to: EarthquakeBraceBolt.com
2. Check your ZIP code to verify eligibility.
3. Find a FEMA-trained, California-licensed general contractor through the site’s contractor directory.
4. Register online between August 20 and October 1, 2025.
5. If eligible, complete the retrofit with approved methods and the selected contractor.