Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Earthquakes in Texas?
When it comes to protecting your home, homeowners insurance covers many types of damage — but earthquake damage usually isn’t one of them. Understanding what your policy includes and excludes is essential, especially if you live in an area with seismic activity like California, Alaska, or parts of Texas.
Standard Homeowners Insurance and Earthquake Damage
A standard homeowners insurance policy typically covers damage from fire, theft, and certain natural disasters such as wind or hail.
However, earthquake-related damage — including shaking, ground movement, or foundation cracking — is almost always excluded from basic coverage.
This means if an earthquake causes your walls to crack or your foundation to shift, your insurer won’t pay for the repairs unless you have specific earthquake coverage.
What Is Earthquake Insurance?
Earthquake insurance is a separate policy or an add-on (endorsement) to your existing homeowners insurance.
It covers damage directly caused by an earthquake, including:
- Cracked or collapsed walls and foundations
- Structural damage to the home
- Detached garages or outbuildings
- Personal belongings damaged by shaking
In some cases, it may also cover temporary living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable after an earthquake.
How Much Does Earthquake Insurance Cost?
The cost of earthquake insurance depends on several factors:
- Location: Premiums are higher in high-risk zones such as California.
- Home Construction: Wood-frame homes often cost less to insure than brick homes.
- Rebuilding Cost: The value of your home directly affects your premium.
- Deductible: Earthquake insurance often has higher deductibles (10–20% of your home’s insured value).
Do You Need Earthquake Insurance?
If you live in a region where earthquakes are common, purchasing earthquake insurance is a smart financial decision. Even small quakes can cause thousands of dollars in damage, and without coverage, you’ll have to pay out of pocket.
Homeowners in Texas, Oklahoma, and California should especially review their risk and consider adding earthquake protection.
Tips to Protect Your Home from Earthquake Damage
- Secure heavy furniture and appliances to walls.
- Reinforce your foundation and ensure your home is bolted to it.
- Create an emergency plan and keep disaster supplies on hand.
- Review your insurance policy annually to stay protected.
Final Thoughts
While homeowners insurance does not cover earthquake damage, you can easily add earthquake insurance to safeguard your property and finances. Understanding your risk and coverage options ensures you’re prepared — not surprised — when the ground starts to shake.
FAQs
Does homeowners insurance cover earthquake damage?
No, standard homeowners insurance does not cover earthquake damage. To protect your home and belongings from seismic activity, you need a separate earthquake insurance policy or an endorsement added to your existing coverage.
What does earthquake insurance cover?
Earthquake insurance typically covers structural damage to your home, personal property, and additional living expenses if you must relocate temporarily. It helps pay for repairs and replacements caused directly by ground shaking or movement.
Is earthquake insurance worth it in Texas?
While Texas is not as earthquake-prone as California, minor quakes have occurred in recent years. If you live near fault lines or in older homes, earthquake insurance can be a smart investment to prevent unexpected repair costs.
