What Does Earthquake Insurance Cover in California?

Natural disasters can be scary, but having the proper preparations in place can help give you peace of mind. One way to prepare is by ensuring your insurance coverage includes any common natural disaster events in your area. For Californians, that most likely means having earthquake insurance. Earthquake insurance may help cover some of the losses and damages caused by an earthquake to your home, belongings or other buildings on your property.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Earthquakes?

Earthquake coverage is not usually part of a standard homeowner’s policy. Homeowners will likely have to add earthquake coverage by purchasing a separate policy.

What Does Earthquake Insurance Cover?

Earthquake insurance usually has three main components of coverage.

1. Dwelling coverage helps cover earthquake damage to your home and any other attached structures, such as a garage.

2. Personal property coverage helps cover damage to your belongings, such as furniture.

3. Additional living expenses coverage helps cover the cost of living and eating elsewhere because an earthquake has made your home uninhabitable.

What Is Not Covered by Earthquake Insurance?

Earthquake insurance usually excludes the following:

Fire—If an earthquake causes a fire in your home, it should be covered by your homeowner’s policy, so it does not need to be included in an earthquake insurance policy.

Land—Earthquake policies do not include coverage for your land, such as sinkholes from erosion.

Vehicles—Earthquake policies do not include coverage for vehicles, but your auto insurance policy may cover it.

Flood—Earthquake insurance does not cover water damage outside your home, such as a sewer, drain back-up or flood. You will need a flood insurance policy to cover these incidents.

Earthquake Insurance Quote Near Marin County, CA

Earthquake insurance premiums vary depending on various factors, including your home’s location, age, size, and framing and foundation materials. To get an accurate earthquake insurance quote, contact the professionals at Muzio & Rovero Insurance Services Inc. We have been providing insurance solutions to clients in the Marin County area for generations, and we will make sure you have the protection you need.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.