How Much Earthquake Insurance Coverage Do You REALLY Need?

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March 11, 2025

One of the most common questions homeowners ask is:
“How much earthquake insurance coverage should I have?”

The answer depends on several factors, but one thing is clear—being underinsured could cost you thousands if disaster strikes. In this guide, we’ll break down how to determine the right amount of coverage so you can protect your home and finances.

1. Dwelling Coverage: The Foundation of Your Policy

Your dwelling coverage is the most important part of your earthquake insurance policy. Insurance companies require that this coverage be at least equal to your home insurance dwelling coverage—or higher.

🔹 Example: If your home insurance policy has $500,000 in dwelling coverage, your earthquake insurance policy must have at least $500,000. You cannot select a lower amount, like $100,000, for earthquake coverage.

✅ You CAN choose more dwelling coverage than your home insurance provides, but you CANNOT choose less.

2. Customizing Other Earthquake Insurance Coverages

Unlike dwelling coverage, the other parts of an earthquake insurance policy are flexible. You can customize these based on your needs:

✔️ Other Structures Coverage

Covers detached garages, fences, sheds, and other structures on your property.

✔️ Personal Property Coverage

Protects belongings inside your home, including furniture, electronics, and valuables.

✔️ Loss of Use Coverage

Covers temporary living expenses if your home is uninhabitable after an earthquake. This could include hotel stays, meals, and rental costs.

💡 Pro Tip: When customizing these coverages, consider how much it would cost to replace everything you own and how long you’d need alternative housing if your home were damaged.

3. Why Customization Matters

Many homeowners underestimate the amount of coverage they need. Without proper protection, you might pay out of pocket for:
❌ Major repairs to your home
❌ Replacing damaged personal belongings
❌ Temporary housing expenses

💡 Working with an agent can help! At Earthquake Agent, we ask the right questions to identify what matters most to you and ensure you have the right level of coverage.

4. Get the Right Earthquake Insurance Policy Today

Every home is different, and your earthquake insurance should be tailored to your unique needs. The worst time to realize you’re underinsured is AFTER an earthquake hits.

📢 Want expert help selecting the right coverage?
🔍 Start your quote today at 👉 EarthquakeAgent.com