Personal or homeowners insurance policies define an earthquake as "shaking or trembling of the crust of the earth, caused by underground volcanic forces or by breaking and shifting of rock beneath the surface."

Coverage for earthquakes is usually excluded from standard homeowners or renters policies.

Earthquake coverage is available but is rather costly and includes high deductibles. Rates vary from street to street, and depend on the proximity to and magnitude of any fault lines as well as the age and construction of your house. Coverage can also be included on a PAF (personal articles floater) if desired.

In California, earthquake coverage is available in either a "mini" or regular form. The mini policy is mainly to protect the structure, and offers little coverage for contents and loss of use. The "regular" form of earthquake insurance has policies that are more extensive in their coverage, including increased limits for contents and, in some cases, lower deductibles on dwelling coverage and additional living expense coverage (in case your house becomes uninhabitable).

We can help explain all of this in detail and customize it for your specific needs. Give us a call today.