Living in California means living with earthquakes — and if your home was built before modern seismic codes, it may not be securely attached to its foundation. That’s why the state created the Earthquake Brace + Bolt (EBB) program, which helps homeowners retrofit their properties for better safety. To qualify, however, you must work with trusted Earthquake Brace and Bolt contractors, such as an EBB Retrofit Contractor who is also an officially EBB approved contractor.

What Is the EBB Program?

The Earthquake Brace + Bolt (EBB) program offers eligible homeowners financial incentives, helping offset the cost of seismic retrofits. These retrofits are designed to prevent homes from sliding off their foundations during an earthquake. Work typically includes installing anchor bolts and bracing along the short cripple walls in crawl spaces — the space between the ground and where your house actually sits.

To qualify for grant money, the retrofit must be completed by an EBB approved contractor and must follow strict guidelines from the California Residential Mitigation Program (CRMP).

Why Hire Earthquake Brace and Bolt Contractors?

Not all contractors are equipped to perform retrofits that meet EBB standards. Certified Earthquake Brace and Bolt contractors understand how to properly bolt your mudsill to the foundation and brace cripple walls so your house resists strong seismic shaking. These specialists know the specific construction requirements, inspection checklists, and documentation needed to satisfy the state program.

Hiring an experienced EBB contractor not only improves your home’s safety — it also gives you the best chance at receiving EBB funding without hassles or delays.

What to Expect from an EBB Retrofit Contractor

When you hire a qualified EBB Retrofit Contractor, you begin with a detailed inspection of your foundation and crawl space area. The contractor measures wall heights, looks for structural weaknesses, and determines whether your home fits the EBB criteria. If approved, they’ll create a customized plan for adding anchor bolts, sheathing, and bracing where needed.

Once your project is finished, a building inspector must sign off on the work. An EBB approved contractor will know exactly how to prepare for inspection, ensuring the work passes the first time and remains eligible for reimbursement.

Long-Term Benefits of EBB Retrofits

Hiring licensed Earthquake Brace and Bolt contractors offers many advantages beyond financial incentives:

• Improved safety: Properly bolted homes are far less likely to slip off their foundations during a major quake.
• Reduced repair costs: Retrofitted homes suffer less structural damage, saving you money in the aftermath of an earthquake.
• Increased peace of mind: You can feel confident your family and property are better protected.
• Higher resale value: Future buyers value homes that are seismically reinforced and may seek retrofit documentation during escrow.

Choose the Right Contractor from the Start

Earthquakes are unpredictable — but your home’s safety shouldn’t be. Whether you’re trying to qualify for the California Earthquake Brace + Bolt program or simply want to protect what matters most, make sure your home retrofit is handled by a trusted EBB Retrofit Contractor. Hire only professional Earthquake Brace and Bolt contractors who are officially listed as an EBB approved contractor and have a proven track record of successful retrofit work.

By investing today in a properly executed EBB retrofit, you’re securing more than just your home — you’re securing your future.