Short answer: Earthquake Brace + Bolt (EBB) is a California Residential Mitigation Program grant of up to $3,000 toward a code-compliant seismic retrofit. It's for wood-frame houses built before 1980 that sit on a raised foundation with a crawl space, in eligible ZIP codes. Income-eligible households may qualify for supplemental funding. Registration opens in periodic windows, so check crmp.org.
Who qualifies
According to the CRMP eligibility page:
- The house is in an EBB-eligible ZIP code
- It was built before 1980
- It's wood-framed, on level ground or a low slope
- It has a raised foundation with a crawl space
- It hasn't already been retrofitted
What the retrofit does
The EBB retrofit bolts the house to its foundation and braces the crawl-space walls (cripple walls), so the house is less likely to slide or topple off its foundation in an earthquake.
How it works
- Register during an open window. The program says registration is typically offered annually or as funding is available; sign up for its email list at crmp.org to hear when it opens.
- If you're selected, hire a contractor from the program's directory.
- The contractor gets a permit and does the work, and it passes inspection.
- You're reimbursed up to the grant amount. Supplemental grants for income-eligible households can cover more.
Insurance
A retrofit lowers your risk, but standard California homeowners policies still exclude earthquake damage. Ask your earthquake insurer whether it offers a retrofit discount. See our California earthquake insurance guide.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the Brace + Bolt grant?
Up to $3,000, with supplemental funding possible for income-eligible households.
Which homes qualify?
Wood-frame houses built before 1980 on raised foundations with crawl spaces, in eligible ZIP codes.
Does a retrofit replace earthquake insurance?
No. It lowers your risk, but earthquake damage still needs separate coverage.
Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. This isn't legal, tax or financial advice or a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.
Related guide: Earthquake Brace + Bolt supplemental grant and the flood insurance condition