About seismicretrofitcost.com
What we are
An independent reference for California homeowners trying to understand seismic retrofit cost before they call a contractor or an insurer. We publish verified cost ranges, the grant mechanics, and the insurance discount math in one place.
What we are not
- Not a contractor. We do not perform retrofits.
- Not an insurer. We do not sell CEA policies.
- Not a referral broker. We do not take commissions from any party.
- Not affiliated with CRMP, CEA, or any state agency. We cite their public materials.
How we work
Every cost or grant figure on this site traces to a primary source on the sources page and carries a confidence label in the calculator. We re-verify the headline numbers quarterly. Pages stamp "as of YYYY-MM-DD" so you know how fresh they are.
Reviewer slot — open
For YMYL credibility we are seeking a named California-licensed structural engineer (PE) to review the technical content. The slot will appear in the footer once filled. If you are a California PE and want to review for credit, please email the address on the sources page.
Open items we are tracking
- Live verification of CRMP eligible-ZIP list and ESS coverage.
- Per-jurisdiction permit and plan-check fee survey.
- Direct verification of the often-cited UC Boulder resale-value paper.
Continue your survey
- Brace + Bolt Cost What a standard pre-1980 raised-foundation retrofit actually costs, with and without the grant.
- Soft-Story Retrofit Cost Living space over the garage. Single-family-home range, not commercial multi-unit ordinance numbers.
- Earthquake Brace + Bolt Grant Up to $3,000 base, plus up to $7,000 supplemental if your income is at or under $94,480.