No one should rely on luck as insurance for their home in an earthquake zone. Time will tell when our luck runs out… will you be able to rebuild after the inevitable? Although recently stable, California’s seismic areas won’t stay that way according to recent studies in Los Angeles Times (Opens in a new tab).
The current earthquake drought also means that Californians aren’t necessarily prepared for a large-scale quake. The last California earthquake that was greater than 7 magnitude was in 1857. The 6.7 magnitude Northridge quake was in 1994 and the 6.9 magnitude Loma Prieta quake was in 1989. Although the recent earthquakes in Turkey can feel like a world away, the reality is that our own region faces the same threat every day. News stories of a major earthquake tragically brings awareness to the forefront, but few Californians have first-hand experience.
The Los Angeles Times (Opens in a new tab) declared that California is in an earthquake “quiet period”, and the end of the drought will bring destructive results. In fact, California earthquakes are inevitable. We don’t know when or where, but homeowners living within thirty miles of an active fault are risking a large loss. And surprisingly, only 10% have the earthquake insurance coverage necessary to help them rebuild.
Since homeowners’ policies don’t cover damages due to earthquakes, insurance agents across the state should be diligent in talking to clients about stand-alone policies. With or without an agent, now is the time to get prepared, BEFORE the event happens.
Have you protected your home with earthquake insurance or are you relying on good luck? Learn more about California earthquake insurance coverage or get a free quote today Opens a new window.
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