Top 4 Earthquake Insurance Companies in California (2025) | Best Coverage & Rates

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February 28, 2025

California is one of the most earthquake-prone states in the U.S., making earthquake insurance a crucial protection for homeowners. While many homeowners default to the California Earthquake Authority (CEA) for coverage, it often comes with high deductibles, limited flexibility, and fewer customization options. Fortunately, private earthquake insurance carriers provide better coverage, competitive rates, and more flexibility than the CEA.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top four private earthquake insurance companies in California based on their financial strength, deductible options, and coverage availability.

Why Choose Private Earthquake Insurance Over the CEA?

Many homeowners are unaware that the CEA is not the only option—and in most cases, it’s not the best one.

Here’s why you should consider private earthquake insurance instead:

✅ More Affordable Options – CEA premiums can be expensive, and private carriers often offer better rates.

✅ Lower Deductibles – CEA deductibles start at 5% and can go up to 25%, while private insurers offer lower and more flexible deductible options.

✅ Customizable Coverage – CEA policies are rigid, while private insurers allow you to tailor coverage for personal property, loss of use, and other structures.

✅ Better Financial Strength & Claims Service – Many private carriers have higher financial ratings and faster claims processing compared to CEA.

Top 4 Earthquake Insurance Companies in California

1. GeoVera (Flex Limit Program)

Underwritten by: Coastal Select Insurance Company
AM Best Rating: A (Excellent)
Key Features:
✔️ Customizable coverage for other structures, personal property, and loss of use
✔️ Accepts homes built in 1925 and later
✔️ Deductibles from 2.5% to 25% (20%-25% near the Hayward Fault Line)
✔️ No slope restrictions – great for homes on steep terrain
✔️ Accepts multiple foundation types, including post and pier, crawlspace, and slab foundations

2. GeoVera (Single Limit Program)

AM Best Rating: A (Excellent)
Key Features:
✔️ Offers Comprehensive and Standard coverage options
✔️ No age restriction – even homes built in the 1800s are eligible
✔️ Deductibles range from 10% to 25% (area restrictions apply)
✔️ No slope restrictions – accepts homes on steep slopes
✔️ Multiple foundation types accepted

3. Palomar

AM Best Rating: A (Excellent)
Key Features:
✔️ Highly customizable coverage – allows you to match other structures to the dwelling amount
✔️ Accepts older homes (built 1900 and later)
✔️ Deductibles from 2.5% to 25%
✔️ No area restrictions, making it a great option for homes near the Hayward Fault Line
✔️ Moderate slope acceptance, but steep slopes require underwriting approval
✔️ Accepts concrete slab and crawlspace with concrete perimeter foundations

4. Zurich

AM Best Rating: A+ (Superior)
Key Features:
✔️ Highest-rated financial strength among the four companies
✔️ Offers Comprehensive and Standard coverage options
✔️ Requires proof of retrofitting for homes built before 1955
✔️ Deductibles of 5%, 10%, and 15% (5% not available in some areas)
✔️ No slope restrictions – great for homes on steep terrain
✔️ Accepts concrete slab and crawlspace with concrete perimeter foundations

Which Earthquake Insurance Provider is Right for You?

Choosing the best earthquake insurance provider depends on your home’s location, age, and structural type, as well as your budget and coverage needs. Here are some key takeaways:

Get a Free Quote Today!

If you’re looking to compare earthquake insurance rates and find the best policy for your home, we can help! Visit EarthquakeAgent.com to get a personalized quote or speak with an expert today.

Final Thoughts: The CEA is not your only option—and it’s rarely the best one. Private earthquake insurance offers better rates, flexible coverage, and lower deductibles, making it the smarter choice for California homeowners. Take action today and protect your home with a strong, reliable policy.