Are you covered by your home insurance if an earthquake damages your home? The answer will depend on what type of insurance you have. In general, home insurance policies do not include earthquake protection and do not cover earthquake damage. If that is the case, how do I get earthquake coverage for my home? We are glad you asked! Let’s see what your options are for earthquake coverage.
Options for Earthquake Coverage
**Note these options apply to all types of homeowners, renters, landlords, and manufactured homeowners. If you have one of these types of insurance policies, you are able to purchase an earthquake policy.
1. Add Earthquake Coverage to Existing Home Policy: This is not very common, but there are a few home insurance companies that will allow you to add earthquake coverage to an existing homeowners policy. Call your insurance agent to find out if this is an option for you.
2. Purchase a CEA Earthquake Policy: In California we have an option to purchase a California Earthquake Authority (CEA) insurance policy. However, not everyone will be eligible for this policy. Eligibility will be determined by what insurance company insures your home, and if that company is a “participating provider” with the CEA. A list of participating providers can be found on the CEA website, or ask your insurance agent if the CEA will be an option for you.
3. Purchase a Stand-Alone Earthquake Policy: This type of earthquake insurance policy is not dependent on whether or not your home is insured with a participating provider with the CEA. In fact, all homeowners can elect to purchase this type of policy, even if they do have access to the CEA.
Whether you own your home, rent your home, have tenants living in your property or if you own or rent your manufactured home, you can get earthquake coverage to protect your home and belongings. The type of options you have available will depend on what type of insurance policy you have for your home. Talk to your insurance agent to find out what options are available to you for your earthquake insurance. Rancho Cal Insurance Services has been our community with home, auto, and business insurance for many years. We are happy to help you too.