Prepare Your House

California Earthquake Authority

Last updated 11/14/2018

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Description

Learn about the different structural risks and geologic hazards that houses in California face. And, access preparedness resources to learn more about how to prepare your home, including how to apply for a seismic retrofit grant of up to $3,000 from Earthquake Brace + Bolt.

Phone: 877-797-4300

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Earthquake Brace + Bolt program?
The Earthquake Brace + Bolt program was created by the California Residential Mitigation Program (“CRMP”). Earthquake Brace + Bolt offers up to $3,000 for homeowners to seismically retrofit their houses. To be considered for participation in the program once registration opens, homeowners must complete the qualification questionnaire located on the website at www.earthquakebracebolt.com(external link).
How much does a typical retrofit cost?
The cost of a retrofit depends on the size of the cripple wall (height, length, width) and the cost of materials and labor. The cost also depends on whether there is any damage or rot in the existing wood-frame members of the house or if the foundation needs repair.
Why should I retrofit my house?

California has two-thirds of our nation's earthquake risk. Structures(external link) that lack adequate sill plate bolting (external link)and cripple-wall bracing(external link) are more susceptible to earthquake damage.

The frames of older houses are often not bolted to their foundations, and their cripple walls(external link) may lack bracing. Houses without adequate bolting and bracing(external link) can slide or topple off their foundation during an earthquake, requiring potentially very expensive repairs. But this serious damage can be prevented with a proper seismic retrofit.
Is my home at risk from an earthquake?

There are thousands of known faults in California, and scientists continue to discover new ones. Since earthquakes can happen anywhere in California, damage to your home and personal property is always possible. Check to see earthquake risk near you(external link) and take steps to get prepared(external link)!

Related services

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Topics

Housing and real estate,

Keywords

bolt, brace, earthquake, grant, retrofit, prepare,