Earthquake Insurance

Most home insurance policies do not provide protection against the damages that earthquakes can cause. Homeowners in areas that are prone to earthquakes (like Mammoth Lakes, Bishop and the Eastern Sierra), and even those with a history of quakes, should consider the benefits of earthquake insurance.

Homeowners Insurance vs. Earthquake Insurance

With the protection of a traditional home insurance policy, the foundation damage and wall damage caused by an earthquake, as well as the value of any contents that are destroyed, would likely not be covered. Instead, the homeowner would have to pay out of pocket to repair and replace anything damaged. Earthquake insurance through a separate policy (or as an Endorsement on your home policy) offers a solution to protect your investment in your home.

How It Works

As with other insurance policies, earthquake insurance has a deductible. The standard deductible of 15% of the policy limit is retained before damages will be covered. Deductible options with some carriers offer a lower percentage of the policy's total limits (for example 5% versus 15%). Additionally, the policy will have limits that determine the maximum your policy will pay.

Just as with traditional home insurance, earthquake policy limits should be based on the cost to rebuild your home and not on the sale price or estimated value. Premium costs for your policy will be determined by evaluating many factors including your home’s location, date of construction and the construction materials.

Having earthquake insurance does not mitigate the need for flood insurance. For example, if an earthquake causes a tidal wave, which, in turn, creates flood conditions, that damage would only be covered by a flood insurance policy.

Why choose an independent agent?

Independent insurance agents offer more insurance options with more variety in pricing for customers. Since we work with many different companies, we can usually help you fill all your insurance needs without having to use different agents. We also take the time to figure out what you need and connect you with the best insurance policy. We don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach with insurance.