Earthquake Insurance
California Earthquake Insurance – Los Angeles, California
What Is California Earthquake Insurance?
Earthquake insurance is not required. Although quakes can happen anywhere, some places are more prone to them, and in those cases earthquake insurance becomes more important. If you are searching to buy earthquake insurance, start with your current homeowners or renter’s insurance company. Most homeowners and renters insurance policies don’t cover damage from an earthquake. Just like flood insurance, quake insurance must be purchased separately in California.
Earthquake insurance is mainly designed to repair or rebuild your home if it gets damaged in an earthquake. Your personal property coverage limit may be set on the low side, around 10% of your dwelling coverage, but you can raise this limit to your insurer’s maximum.
Rates for earthquake insurance will depend on your coverage limits, deductible and a handful of other factors, including:
- Your ZIP code.
- The age of your home.
- The number of stories in your house.
- Your home’s rebuilding cost.
- The soil type on your property.
- The building materials used in your home.
- Your area’s proximity to fault lines and seismic activity.
It’s always smart to review and check your policy with your insurer. A representative can clearly explain the factors that went into your rate, tell you what is and isn’t covered, and suggest other policies to fill any gaps.
