What Property Owners Should Know Before Earthquake Multi-Unit Retrofit (EMR) Registration Opens
As California continues to prioritize earthquake resilience, the California Residential Mitigation Program (CRMP) is expanding its efforts with the introduction of the Earthquake Multi-Unit Retrofit (EMR) program. Designed to address the unique vulnerabilities of older multi-family buildings, EMR provides targeted financial assistance to help property owners strengthen their structures and better protect residents.
Janiele Maffei, Chief Mitigation Officer with the California Earthquake Authority (CEA) has been hard at work with her team developing the newest seismic retrofit initiative, Earthquake Multi-Unit Retrofit (EMR) program, with registration scheduled to open August 19, 2026.
Q: What is EMR?
J.M.: The CRMP Earthquake Multi-Unit Retrofit (EMR) program builds on the success of the Earthquake Brace + Bolt (EBB) and Earthquake Soft-Story (ESS) programs. While EBB and ESS focus on strengthening older single-family homes—typically built before 1980—through the addition of anchor bolts and plywood to improve structural stability, EMR is designed specifically for multi-family buildings with five to ten units built before 1991.
These buildings—often constructed over ground-level parking or tuck-under garages—are particularly vulnerable during earthquakes. EMR provides earthquake retrofit grant assistance for multi-family buildings of up to $49,600. These grant help property owners retrofit their apartments to current building codes and modern seismic safety standards.
Q: Why is EMR important?
J.M.: Research consistently shows that multi-story, wood-frame construction with open tuck-under parking are among the most at risk for severe earthquake damage. When these buildings fail, the consequences go far beyond structural loss—families can be displaced for months or even years, and the financial and emotional strain can be significant.
EMR is soon to launch in 14 cities in California where ordinances require multi-unit seismic retrofitting. EMR offers critical financial support to property owners by helping to offset the cost of these retrofits. The program plays a key role in preserving housing stability and strengthening overall community resilience.
Q: How can the community support EMR?
J.M.: Earthquake preparedness is a shared responsibility. Scientific research indicates that a major earthquake is likely to impact California within the next 20 years. While that timeline can feel abstract, the risk is real—and preparation matters.
Community members can help by spreading the word. Share information about EMR with property owners, neighbors, local leaders, and decision-makers. Increased awareness leads to stronger participation—and safer communities. In California, it’s not a matter of if an earthquake will occur, but when.
Q: Where can the community learn more about EMR?
J.M.: Visit CRMP to learn more about the program and sign up to receive updates and be one of the first to receive registration information. Feel free to contact Sheri Pierce at SPierce@calquake.com with additional questions or information about upcoming webinars.
Earthquake Multi-Unit Retrofit Eligibility is limited to Ordinance Cities
Time is limited to register between August 19 – September 30, 2026