Earthquake Brace + Bolt (EBB)
Up to $10,000 in grants for single-family homeowners
What is the EBB Program?
The Earthquake Brace + Bolt (EBB) program provides grants of $3,000 to $10,000 to help California homeowners retrofit their homes to better withstand earthquakes.
The program is managed by the California Residential Mitigation Program (CRMP) and funded by the California Earthquake Authority (CEA).
EBB specifically targets older homes with raised foundations (cripple walls) that are vulnerable to sliding off their foundations during earthquakes.
Grant Amount
Standard Grant
$3,000
Most common grant amount covering typical retrofit costs
Enhanced Grant
Up to $10,000
For homes requiring additional work or in high-cost areas
Note: The grant amount depends on your location, home size, and scope of work needed. CEA policyholders may qualify for higher grant amounts.
Eligibility Requirements
Property Type
Single-family home (1-4 units) with wood-frame construction
Year Built
Constructed before 1980 (when modern building codes took effect)
Foundation Type
Raised foundation with cripple wall or crawl space (NOT slab foundation)
Location
Property located in an EBB-eligible ZIP code (~1,127 ZIPs statewide)
What Work is Covered?
Foundation Bolting
Securing your home's wooden frame to the concrete foundation using heavy-duty steel bolts. This prevents your home from sliding off the foundation during an earthquake.
Cripple Wall Bracing
Reinforcing the short wood-framed walls in your crawl space (between the foundation and the first floor) with plywood shear panels. This prevents your home from collapsing during lateral movement.
Professional Installation
All work must be performed by licensed, EBB-registered contractors who meet program standards. Installation includes city permits, inspections, and a final certificate of completion.
How the Process Works
Check Eligibility
Verify your home qualifies in 30 seconds using our free online tool
Get Matched
Connect with pre-screened, EBB-certified contractors in your area
Get Quotes
Receive free estimates and schedule your retrofit work
Receive Grant
Get reimbursed after work is completed and inspected
Why Retrofit Your Home?
Protect Your Family
Reduce the risk of your home sliding off its foundation or collapsing during an earthquake, keeping your family safe.
Save Money
Receive up to $10,000 to offset retrofit costs. Many homeowners also qualify for earthquake insurance discounts.
Increase Home Value
Retrofitted homes are more valuable and easier to sell. Many buyers specifically look for seismically retrofitted properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a seismic retrofit cost?▼
Typical retrofit costs range from $3,000 to $7,000, depending on your home's size and foundation accessibility. The EBB grant covers most or all of this cost for eligible homeowners.
How long does the retrofit take?▼
Most retrofits are completed in 1-3 days. The work is done in your crawl space, so you can typically remain in your home during construction.
When do I receive the grant money?▼
The grant is a reimbursement program. You pay the contractor upfront, then submit for reimbursement after the work is completed and inspected. Most homeowners receive their grant within 4-6 weeks.
Can I use my own contractor?▼
Yes, but they must be registered with the EBB program and meet all program requirements. We can help you find registered contractors in your area.
Is there a deadline to apply?▼
The EBB program operates in cycles based on funding availability. When your ZIP code is open for registration, you'll typically have several months to apply. Check your eligibility to see if your area is currently accepting applications.
Ready to Get Started?
Check if your home qualifies for the EBB program in just 30 seconds. It's free, fast, and there's no obligation.