What are the two most important things to know about earthquake insurance?

Two Critical Facts About Earthquake Insurance

1. Standard home insurance does not cover earthquake damage. Your policy won’t protect your home, belongings, or other structures if an earthquake strikes.

2. Earthquake risk exists everywhere. Even if you don’t live in a traditionally “seismic” area, earthquakes can happen — and having coverage ensures you’re protected when disaster strikes.
   
   

   Earthquake Insurance: Protect Your Home and Your Peace of Mind

   Earthquakes have struck 39 states since 1900, and roughly 90% of Americans live in seismically active areas. For many of our neighbors in Ramona, earthquake insurance can be surprisingly affordable — and the right coverage can make all the difference after a disaster. Contact Horton Insurance Agency, Inc. today to see what protection would cost for your home.

   ---

   Why Earthquake Insurance Matters

   Most homeowners, condo, and renters policies do not cover earthquake damage. Coverage must be purchased separately — either as an endorsement to your existing policy, a standalone policy, or through organizations like the California Earthquake Authority (CEA).

   Even if you don’t live on the West Coast, earthquake insurance can still be critical:

   • The West: The U.S. Geological Survey estimates a 70% chance of a magnitude 6.7+ earthquake hitting the San Francisco Bay Area in the next 30 years.

   • The East: The Earthquake Education Center reports a 40–60% chance of a major earthquake in the eastern U.S. within 20 years.

   • The Midwest: The Insurance Information Institute predicts a 40–63% chance of a magnitude 6.0 earthquake along the New Madrid Fault in the next 15 years.

   ---

   What Earthquake Insurance Covers

   Earthquake insurance protects your home and belongings after quake-related damage — something standard policies won’t do. Coverage generally excludes floods or tidal waves, but may include losses from landslides, mudflows, or earth movement caused by an earthquake.

   Key considerations when choosing a policy:

   • Does coverage include your home and other structures, like garages?

   • Are your personal belongings and additional living expenses included?

   • What exclusions or limitations apply?

   • What deductible applies before the coverage kicks in?

   ---

   How to Prepare Your Home

   Minimizing damage starts before an earthquake hits:

   • Secure water heaters, gas appliances, bookcases, and furniture.

   • Develop a family emergency plan and designate a meeting place.

   • Choose a distant relative or friend as a communication contact.

   • Keep flashlights, batteries, portable radios, food, and water ready.

   • Teach everyone in your household how to turn off utilities (gas, water, electricity).

   • Ask your insurance agent about home improvements that can reduce risk and damage.

   ---

   What to Do During an Earthquake

   Inside: Stay under a sturdy table or desk, away from windows. Only evacuate if directed by emergency personnel.
   Outside: Move away from buildings, power lines, and masonry facings.
   In a vehicle: Stop safely, away from structures, trees, and power lines; stay inside.

   After the shaking stops:

   • Avoid using candles until gas lines are checked.

   • Check utilities before use — water, electricity, sewage, and chimneys.

   • Keep phone lines open for emergencies only.

   • Stay alert for aftershocks and ensure your family has access to food and water.

   ---

   Earthquake insurance needs vary. Horton Insurance Agency, Inc. can help you find the right coverage, at the right price, to protect your home and your peace of mind.

   Call 619-465-9100 today to get started.