Tips for Buying Earthquake Insurance

1. If you live in a quake-prone region and you can afford it, the best way to protect your investment in your home is to retrofit and buy earthquake insurance.

2. The decision whether or not to buy earthquake insurance is an individual, financial decision. Key factors to research and consider are:

a) the financial strength of the companies that will sell it to you,
b) the features and pricing of their policies,
c) the amount of equity you have in your home,
d) your proximity to a fault zone, and;
e) the age and style of construction of your home and foundation.

3. If you decide to buy earthquake insurance, shop for limits that are adequate to fully replace your property, engineering costs, required improvements to comply with building codes, temporary living expenses, outbuildings, etc.

4. Policies with 10% as opposed to the standard 15% deductible are now available but of course they’re more expensive. The price and high deductibles for EQ policies has led many people to avoid buying the product, but remember; If you live in a quake-prone region, going “bare” with no insurance means you have a 100% deductible…you’ll bear the entire risk yourself.

5. Don’t assume that FEMA, the SBA and/or private charities will bail you out with funds to rebuild after a major disaster. FEMA has very limited funds and strict eligibility criteria. SBA loans are modest and must be repaid. Private charities are being severely stretched by an ever-increasing demand for their services.

For more detailed information on California earthquake policies and claims.