Q & A by Janiele Maffei
The California Residential Mitigation Program (CRMP) is offering grants of up to $49,600 through the new Earthquake Multi-Unit Retrofit (EMR) program. Registration opens August 19 and runs through September 30, 2026, for eligible property owners.
If you own a retrofit-mandated 5–10-unit multi-story residential building, you may qualify for funding to help complete a full first-floor seismic retrofit that meets current retrofit standards.
EMR was created to help owners of high-risk buildings prepare for future earthquakes while protecting residents, preserving housing accessibility, and safeguarding property investments.
You may be surprised to learn that you qualify. We asked CRMP Chief Mitigation Officer, Janiele Maffei, to answer some of the most common questions about the program.
Q. I received a retrofit mandate from my city, but the deadline to complete the retrofit has passed. Do I still qualify?
A. Yes. You may still be eligible even if your city's retrofit deadline has passed. Our goal is to help as many property owners as possible complete these important seismic improvements and reduce damages from an earthquake. We understand life can get in the way, and we don’t want that to stop you from taking advantage of this opportunity.
Q. I live in San Jose where I have been provided a letter notifying me of my building’s soft-story deficiencies and the need to retrofit; however, they have not sent me an official notice and order to retrofit. Do I still qualify for this grant?
A. Yes, if you live in San Jose and received a letter from your City’s Building Department indicating your building’ soft-story seismic deficiency, we encourage you to register for the EMR grant. Please contact your City’s Building Department for next steps.
Q. I already pulled a permit but haven't started construction. Can I still qualify?
A. Yes. You may still qualify for a substantial portion of the EMR grant if you have not started physical construction. Eligible property owners may receive up to $4,260 per unit, not to exceed 70% of eligible retrofit costs. Additional assistance may also be available for engineering expenses.
Q. Can I combine my seismic retrofit with other property improvements or renovations?
A. Yes. In many cases, property owners can complete retrofit work alongside other planned improvements. However, the retrofit portion must be clearly identified and documented on a separate permit and invoice from other work that you may be doing. CRMP staff can help you determine which expenses may be eligible for reimbursement at info@crmp.org.
Q. I own multiple apartment buildings with 5–10 units each. Can I apply for more than one grant?
A. Yes. Property owners may qualify for grant funding for multiple eligible properties. Contact info@crmp.org to discuss your specific situation and confirm eligibility requirements.
Q. I own a condominium unit within a qualifying building. How do I access the EMR grant?
A. The retrofit must be completed for the entire building. Condominium owners should work with their Homeowners Association (HOA) or property management company to register for the program and coordinate the retrofit project. Your HOA can help determine next steps and secure support from other owners within the building.
Don't Miss Your Opportunity
Registration for the Earthquake Multi-Unit Retrofit (EMR) program opens August 19 and closes September 30, 2026.
Visit CRMP to learn more about the program and sign up to receive updates. Feel free to contact Sheri Pierce at SPierce@calquake.com with additional questions or email our customer support team at info@crmp.org.
