Here are a couple of things to think about when it comes to earthquakes and your home:

1. Most home, condo and renters insurance policies do not cover earthquake damage.
2. Even if you live in an area where earthquakes are not common, you may still need earthquake insurance.

For many of our clients, earthquake insurance can be inexpensive. To find out what it would cost to get your home covered, contact us.

Earthquake Insurance Options

Earthquake coverage can be purchased as an endorsement or a separate policy and you may be able to purchase earthquake insurance from the same company that provides your home insurance.

Do I Need Earthquake Insurance in Seattle?

Earthquakes have occurred in 39 states since 1900, and about 90% of Americans live in areas considered seismically active.

In all likelihood, almost the entire US would be better protected by purchasing earthquake insurance.

Consider these facts:

In the West - According to the U.S. Geological Survey, there is a 70% probability that one or more damaging earthquakes of magnitude 6.7 or larger will strike the San Francisco Bay area during the next 30 years.

In the East - The Earthquake Education Center at Charleston Southern University claims there is a 40% to 60% chance of a major earthquake somewhere in the eastern United States in the next 20 years.

In the Midwest - According to the Insurance Information Institute, there's a 40% to 63% chance the New Madrid Fault (which runs through Arkansas, Kentucky, Missouri and Tennessee) region will suffer an earthquake with a 6.0 magnitude in the next 15 years.

What Does Earthquake Insurance Cover?

Earthquake insurance provides coverage if your home is damaged by an earthquake. An earthquake endorsement generally excludes damages or losses from floods and tidal waves – even when caused or compounded by an earthquake.

There are several options to consider when purchasing earthquake insurance, including:

• Does the policy cover only your home? Are other structures, such as garages, also included?
• Will your policy pay for the contents of your home and for additional living expenses if your home is badly damaged or destroyed?
• Are there any exclusions or limitations to coverage?
• What deductible must you pay before the insurance kicks in?

Earthquake insurance needs can vary significantly – talk to us today to find out how to get the best price and value on earthquake insurance.