Earthquake-Smart, Claim-Ready: A 3-Minute Home Insurance Playbook
Whether you own a house, condo, or rent an apartment, the right coverage can turn a major quake from overwhelming to manageable. Homeowners policies protect your structure, belongings, loss of use, and liability. Condo (HO-6) covers “walls-in” improvements, your property, and liability. Renters (HO-4) covers your stuff and liability (your landlord insures the building). Price limits to rebuild cost, not market value, and consider add-ons like ordinance or law (code upgrades), water backup, service line, equipment breakdown, and scheduled coverage for high-value items.
For earthquakes specifically, a standard home, condo, and renters policies do not cover quake damage, you need a separate earthquake policy for the dwelling/unit, personal property, and temporary housing. Prepare now for the bolt the foundation, brace cripple walls, strap water heaters, install an automatic gas shutoff valve, and secure heavy furniture/TVs to studs. Do a quick smartphone video inventory, save receipts to the cloud, and keep a go-bag with IDs, meds, chargers, pet needs, and policy numbers. Expect percentage-based deductibles on earthquake policies and choose one you can realistically fund in an emergency.
After an earthquake, go in this order: Safety → Mitigation → Documentation → Claims. Get everyone safe, shut off utilities if you suspect leaks, tarp/board openings to prevent further damage (save receipts), photograph everything before cleanup, and list damaged items with approximate ages/values. Then report the claim promptly and confirm inspection timelines and loss-of-use benefits.
Interested in a solution tailored to your exposure, and budget? The Paoletta Insurance Agency has protected families since 1979. My team will review your limits and deductibles, compare earthquake options, and align coverage, so you’re protected when it matters most.
Book a quick consultation or request a free quote today at the Paoletta Insurance Agency.
