Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Earthquakes in California?
It's one of the most common questions we hear from homeowners in Glendale and across Los Angeles: does my homeowners policy cover earthquakes? In most cases, the answer is no. Earthquake damage is typically excluded from standard homeowners insurance, and coverage is purchased as a separate policy.
How Earthquake Insurance Works
Many California homeowners get earthquake coverage through the California Earthquake Authority (CEA), a publicly managed, privately funded organization that offers policies through participating insurance companies. You buy it through your home insurance company or agent, and eligibility depends on your home being insured by a participating company.
What It Can Cover
Dwelling: Damage to your house and attached structures, like an attached garage.
Personal property: Furniture, appliances, clothing, and other belongings.
Loss of use: Additional living expenses if you can't safely live in your home during repairs.
Building code upgrades and emergency repairs: Some limited coverage is included with CEA policies.
Understanding the Deductible
Earthquake deductibles work differently from homeowners deductibles. Instead of a flat dollar amount, they're a percentage of your dwelling coverage. CEA dwelling deductibles range from 5% to 25%. A lower percentage means a higher premium but less out of pocket after a quake. Some homes, including those with higher dwelling limits or older homes without a verified retrofit, have fewer deductible options.
Is Earthquake Insurance Worth It?
That depends on your home, your savings, and your comfort with risk. Questions to think about:
Could you afford to repair or rebuild your home without insurance?
Is your home older, or built on a raised foundation?
Would you need help with living expenses if you had to move out?
A retrofit can sometimes lower your earthquake premium, so it's worth asking about.
Let's Review Your Options
We can look at your homeowners insurance and help you understand your earthquake coverage choices. You may also qualify for home insurance discounts. Call (818) 459-3400 or stop by our Glendale office.
This article is for general information only. Coverage, deductibles, and eligibility are subject to policy terms and availability. Amik Gasparyan Insurance Agency, Farmers Insurance agent, CA License #6014107.