Commonly Asked Questions About Earthquake Insurance

If you live in California, you know that earthquakes are an inescapable event. Planning for earthquakes is just a normal part of life. One of the ways that you can plan for earthquakes is to get earthquake insurance. This type of insurance is important for recovering after a significant earthquake.

Having this type of insurance can save you thousands of dollars in the event that your home is seriously damaged or destroyed during a covered event. At Miao Insurance Services, servicing Pleasanton, CA, we’re happy to help you learn more about earthquake insurance.

Here’s what you need to know:

1. What is earthquake insurance?

Earthquake insurance is a specific type of insurance that covers direct physical loss to property due to an earthquake. 

2. Who should get earthquake insurance?

Just about anyone who owns property or rents property in an area where earthquakes are common should consider getting earthquake insurance for their home. Earthquake insurance is often low-cost and can save you thousands of dollars if a covered event occurs. 

3. Are earthquakes covered by homeowners insurance or renters insurance?

Earthquakes are not covered by a typical homeowners or renters insurance policy. You can find out more about what is covered by your renters or homeowners insurance policy by speaking to your insurance agent. 

4. How can I get earthquake insurance?

If you’re interested in getting earthquake insurance in Pleasanton, CA and the surrounding area, contact us at Miao Insurance Services. We offer earthquake insurance and a range of other policy types to help you cover your possessions. Insurance can help protect you financially when certain events occur, so don’t wait – call today to find out more. 

What is and is not covered by earthquake insurance?

Your home is often among your most significant investments, so protecting it with earthquake insurance is critical when you reside in Pleasanton, CA, which averages more than one earthquake per day. Though most earthquakes are minor, the Bay Area has experienced its share of severe earthquakes, so insuring against their financial consequences is common sense.

Still, you have many choices when buying earthquake insurance, and the Miao Insurance Services team stands ready to help you make a wise choice based on your situation and needs.

Earthquake Insurance Coverage

Policies written under the California Earthquake Authority (CEA) cover the following:

  • Dwelling: covers your home and attached structures up to the value of your homeowner’s policy (not required for condo owners and renters)
  • Personal Property: electronics, appliances, clothing, and other belongings
  • Additional Living Expenses (ALE): Temporary living expenses during evacuation and repair

Earthquake insurance excludes certain types of damages because other policies cover them:

  • Fire: homeowner’s policy
  • Vehicles: auto policy

In addition, while other elements of our home, land, and belongings are not covered by basic earthquake insurance, they are insurable as options or through separate policies. These include:

  • Land: sinkholes and erosion
  • Flood: drain backup, flood, or tsunami
  • Building Code Upgrade: retrofitting a home to current building codes
  • Emergency Repairs: short-term repairs to limit further damage, such as boarding up broken windows
  • Breakables: glassware, pottery, and similar
  • Exterior Masonry Veneer: stucco and other nonstructural facings

Working with Miao Insurance Services

Miao Insurance Services covers the earthquake insurance needs of many in the Pleasanton, CA area. We will work with you to recommend the policy that best meets your unique situation, as we likely have with your neighbors. So, call us today for your earthquake and other insurance needs.

What is Earthquake Insurance in California?

If you’re a homeowner in Pleasanton, CA, chances are you’ve thought about earthquake insurance at one point or another. After all, California is on the infamous "Ring of Fire," and earthquakes are a genuine threat in this part of the country. But what exactly is earthquake insurance, and do you need it? Let’s take a closer look.

What is Earthquake Insurance?

Earthquake insurance is a type of property insurance that helps protect your home and belongings from damage caused by an earthquake. It’s important to note that most standard home insurance policies do not cover damage caused by earthquakes, so if you live in an area prone to seismic activity, it’s worth considering this coverage. Your Miao Insurance Services representative can help you find the right policy.

What Does Earthquake Insurance Cover?

Earthquake insurance typically covers repairing or rebuilding your home if it’s damaged or destroyed by an earthquake. It may also cover other structures on your property, such as detached garages or fences, as well as the contents of your home, such as your furniture and appliances. Some policies may also provide temporary living expenses if your home is uninhabitable after an earthquake.

Why Do I Need Earthquake Insurance in Pleasanton, CA?

Pleasanton CA is in Alameda County, which falls within what’s known as the "Ring of Fire." This ring encompasses the Pacific Rim and is one of the most seismically active areas in the world. So, if you live in this area of California, there’s a good chance you could experience seismic activity at some point. And if you don’t have earthquake insurance, any damage caused by an earthquake would have to be paid for out of pocket, which could be financially devastating.

Give Us A Call

Earthquake insurance is a vital part of being a homeowner in California. If you’re looking for coverage, Miao Insurance Services can help. We offer competitive rates and outstanding customer service. Contact us today for a free quote.

Why You Should Consider Purchasing Earthquake Insurance

Many Pleasanton, CA homeowners find it difficult to determine the amount of homeowner’s insurance they need. With the cost of living so high, no one wants to be out more money than they need to, but at the same time, you don’t want to find yourself insufficiently insured when the time comes.

One thing that homeowners fail to consider is the additional types of protection that is offered on top of standard home insurance, such as earthquake insurance. This is an additional expense that should be taken very seriously when you live in an area where earthquakes are common. Here are a few things you should consider when purchasing earthquake insurance. If you need further assistance, feel free to reach out to our team at Miao Insurance Services.

What Type of Damage Tends to Be Caused by Earthquakes?

There is the obvious risk of complete destruction with earthquakes, but this natural disaster can also bring an assortment of threats to your dwelling. Your standard home insurance policy offers protection against structural damage, explosions, fires, gas leaks, etc. However, an earthquake can cause far more damage to your home than any of these threats, and if you do not have sufficient coverage, you will need to pay for the repair/replacement out of your pocket.

What Coverage Does Earthquake Insurance Provide?

Earthquake insurance coverage will vary from one company and policy to the next. However, as a general rule, you will obtain coverage for your home and any replacement costs for your personal belongings. Usually, the policy will offer coverage for additional living expenses in the event you are unable to live in your home due to the extent of damage. Of course, earthquake insurance policies do have coverage limits just like typical homeowner’s policies.

Just like home insurance policies, earthquake insurance endorsements do come in a one-size-fits-all policy. Therefore, it’s important to ensure you’re getting the right coverage for your Pleasanton, CA home. If you need help, contact Miao Insurance Services to speak to an insurance agent.