Earthquake Insurance

Prepare For Disaster

About Earthquake Coverage

Earthquakes have occurred in 39 states since 1900, and about 90% of Americans live in areas considered seismically active. For many of our neighbors in Lincoln, earthquake insurance can be inexpensive – contact Jeff Munns Agency, Inc. to find out what the costs would be for your home.

Most homeowner, condo and rental insurance policies do not cover damage caused by an earthquake, but coverage can typically be purchased as an endorsement or a separate policy.

Does My State Really Need Earthquake Insurance?

Here Are The Facts: No matter where you live, you should consider earthquake insurance.

In the Midwest

According to the Insurance Information Institute, there’s a 40 to 63 percent chance the New Madrid Fault (which runs through Arkansas, Kentucky, Missouri, and Tennessee) region will suffer an earthquake with a 6.0 magnitude in the next 15 years.

In the East

The Earthquake Education Center at Charleston Southern University claims there’s a 40 to 60 percent chance of a major earthquake somewhere in the eastern United States in the next 20 years.

In the West

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, there is a 70 percent probability that one or more damaging earthquakes of magnitude 6.7 or larger will strike the San Francisco Bay area during the next 30 years.

What Does Earthquake Insurance Cover?

Earthquake insurance provides coverage if a home is damaged by an earthquake. Standard homeowner and renters policies will not cover earthquake damage. Earthquake insurance is a separate endorsement you must buy and add to your homeowner or renters policy.

An earthquake endorsement generally excludes damages or losses from floods and tidal waves – even when caused or compounded by an earthquake. However, if one experiences a loss due to a landslide, settlement, mudflow, or the rising, sinking and contracting of earth, the endorsement may cover it if the damage resulted from an earthquake.

There are several options to consider when purchasing earthquake insurance, including:

Does the policy cover only your home? Are other structures, such as garages, also included?

Will your policy pay for the contents of your home and for additional living expenses if your home is badly damaged or destroyed?

Are there any exclusions or limitations to coverage?

What deductible must you pay before the insurance kicks in?

What To Do When An Earthquake Strikes

Here Is What You Need To Do If You Find Yourself In An Earthquake.

If You Are Inside

When an earthquake hits, stay inside and get under a heavy table or desk. Stay away from windows. Do not evacuate the building unless emergency personnel direct you to leave.

If You Are Outside

Get away from buildings and power lines, and remember that stone and masonry facings can break loose and fall away from upper parts of buildings.

If You Are In A Car

Stop safely away from structures, large trees, power lines, and other hazards. Stay inside the vehicle.

Earthquakes Can Happen In Nebraska

Here’s How You Can Protect Yourself

Make sure your water heater, gas appliances, and other fixtures are fastened securely.

Have a family emergency plan that all family members know. Designate a meeting place outside the home where family members can gather once the danger has passed.

Plan ahead. Keep flashlights, batteries, and candles on hand. Have a portable radio.

When shopping for earthquake insurance, ask the company to help you identify possible repairs and other improvements that will make your home safer and minimize damage.

Don’t tie up phone lines except to report emergencies.

Check that bookcases and furniture are secure and fastened to walls.

Designate a distant relative or friend who can serve as a point of contact and communication for you and your family members if you get separated.

Be sure everyone in your house knows how to turn off utilities (electricity, water, and gas).

Don’t use candles until gas lines are checked. Also, check throughout your home before you use certain utilities, such as water and electric, sewage connections, and even chimneys.

Be prepared. Remember that you will need food and water, even for the short term. Keep your family together and stay alert for aftershocks.

Informational statements regarding insurance coverage are for general description purposes only. Read our disclaimer.

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