California landlords can now apply for grant funding to strengthen older rental properties against earthquakes.

Through the Earthquake Brace + Bolt program, property owners are eligible for up to $3,000 per home to help cover the cost of seismic retrofits. The program, administered by the California Residential Mitigation Program, has set aside $20 million in funding statewide for 2025.

Until now, grants were available only to owner-occupied homes. This year marks the first time rental properties have been included, creating a new opportunity for landlords with qualifying buildings.

Eligible structures are wood-frame, raised-foundation houses built before 1980 in designated ZIP codes identified as higher risk. Retrofits typically involve bolting the home to its foundation and bracing the crawl space walls, steps that help prevent a house from sliding or collapsing during a major earthquake.

CRMP says expanding eligibility is part of its broader mission to improve earthquake safety across California communities. For rental housing providers, the grants also help protect residents and investments while reducing out-of-pocket costs for compliance with retrofit standards.

Applications are open now. To check eligibility and apply, visit EarthquakeBraceBolt.com.