Santa Clara County Seismic Retrofit Program

Santa Clara County Planning & Development

Available Home Repair

About This Program

Forgivable loans to help income-eligible Santa Clara County homeowners retrofit older homes to better withstand earthquakes. Covers foundation bolting, cripple wall bracing, and other seismic improvements. Loan forgiven after 10 years of occupancy.

Forgivable loan covers retrofit costs up to $15,000; forgiven after 10 years

Data last verified 2026-06-09. How we verify our data.

Key Details

  • Forgivable loan up to $15,000 for seismic retrofit
  • Income at or below 120% AMI required
  • Covers foundation bolting and cripple wall bracing
  • Forgiven after 10 years of owner occupancy
  • Reduces earthquake damage risk

How to Apply

Get free help applying Visit Official Program Page Track this program

(408) 299-5700

A grant-savvy contractor in Santa Clara, CA can handle the paperwork, inspections, and timelines so your funding releases on schedule. Getting matched is free.

You will likely need a contractor to apply

Projects like this almost always need a licensed contractor, and many grants ask for a written estimate as part of your application. Lining up a contractor in Santa Clara early keeps your application moving.

Get matched with a contractor

This program is usually a forgivable loan: you owe nothing if you stay in the home for the set period, but it may place a lien on the property until then.

Each program sets its own contractor rules. Check the official program page for exact requirements.

Your application paperwork

Documents you will likely need

  • Proof you own and live in the home (deed, recent mortgage statement, or property tax bill).
  • A government-issued photo ID for every owner on title.
  • Household income proof (recent pay stubs, last year's tax return, or benefit award letters for everyone in the home).
  • A written estimate from a licensed contractor for the work (many programs require this to apply).
  • Photos of the problem area or the work to be done.
  • The program's own application form, completed (use the official link or phone number on this page).
Download this checklist (PDF)

Requirements vary by program and locality. Confirm the exact rules on the official program page. We can help you prepare your paperwork, but you submit it yourself.

Deadline: Applications accepted quarterly

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