Earthquake Insurance

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Did you know your homeowner’s insurance policy does not cover you for earthquakes? Earthquake coverage can be added by a simple endorsement or a standalone policy.

Earthquake insurance in South Carolina.

Earthquakes aren’t something most people think about every day, but even minor ground movement can lead to unexpected damage. Having the right earthquake insurance in place can help you feel more prepared, whether you own a home, run a business, or manage a rental property.

At C.T. Lowndes & Co, we work with clients across South Carolina to review earthquake coverage options and find policies that fit their property and their concerns.

With local experience, our team understands how earth tremors and movement can impact buildings throughout the state, from coastal areas to inland communities.

If you’re considering earthquake insurance, we’re here to help you explore your options and make an informed decision.

Request your quote from C.T. Lowndes & Co today.

What is earthquake insurance?

Earthquake insurance is a type of insurance policy that offers separate coverage for losses caused by an earthquake.

Because most homeowners insurance policies and renters insurance policies exclude earthquake damage, you need a dedicated earthquake policy, or endorsement, if you want protection from structural damage and property damage.

Earthquake insurance typically covers damage caused by an earthquake including:

  • Damage to your home
  • Structural damage to attached structures
  • Personal property losses
  • Fire damage triggered by earthquakes
  • Additional living expenses if you cannot stay in your home

Earthquake insurance coverage fills the gap, helping you recover faster after a major earthquake.

Who needs earthquake insurance?

Earthquake risk exists throughout South Carolina. Even if you do not live directly on a fault line or in what some call earthquake country, geological survey reports show ongoing seismic activity across the region.

Anyone who would struggle to pay repair costs out of pocket should consider earthquake coverage.

You may especially need this coverage if:

  • You live in an earthquake prone area.
  • You own older property or structures with a higher risk of earthquake damages.
  • You want to cover earthquake damage to retaining walls, swimming pools, and your home’s exterior.
  • You want a policy that helps protect your personal belongings and personal property.
  • You want to avoid relying on limited assistance programs like federal aid after natural disasters.
  • You own a business and need insurance coverage that keeps operations running after a major earthquake.

Whether you own a home, rent an apartment, or manage commercial property, a local insurance agency can help you determine whether earthquake insurance is worth the cost based on your risk tolerance and location.

What does earthquake insurance cover?

Each insurance company may structure earthquake insurance policies differently, but here is what is typically covered:

Dwelling Coverage
Dwelling coverage protects the main structure of your home from earthquake damages.

This includes major damage, hidden damage behind walls, structural damage, and damage to attached structures like garages.

Your dwelling limit sets the maximum amount your insurance will pay.

Personal Property Coverage
Personal property coverage applies to items inside your home that are damaged or destroyed.

If your personal belongings are harmed by shaking, falling debris, or impact damage, this part of the policy steps in.

Additional Living Expenses
A big earthquake can make your home unsafe. With additional living expenses coverage, you can pay for temporary housing, meals, and transportation while repairs take place.

Fire Damage and Resulting Losses
While homeowners insurance may cover some fire damage, certain losses caused by an earthquake may require a dedicated earthquake policy, or endorsement.

This type of earth movement can lead to fires, gas leaks, and emergencies that standard policies will not cover.

Emergency Repairs
Earthquake insurance can help with immediate emergency repairs needed to stabilize the structure.

What’s Not Covered
Even the best earthquake coverage has limits. Earthquake insurance does not usually include:

  • Flood damage, which requires flood insurance or a flood insurance policy.
  • Issues not caused by an earthquake.
  • Wear and tear, settling, or maintenance issues unrelated to seismic activity.
  • Landslides or mudslides.
  • Sinkholes.

Every policy deductible is different, and because many earthquake policies use separate deductibles, understanding how earthquake insurance work is essential.

How earthquake insurance works.

Earthquake insurance varies based on construction type, soil conditions near your home, and various factors such as age of property and local seismic activity.

Earthquake insurance cost also depends on your insurance company and the type of insurance cover you choose.

If you want to buy earthquake insurance or just understand how earthquake insurance varies across South Carolina, our insurance agents are here to help.

Get an earthquake insurance quote.

The best time to buy earthquake insurance is before an earthquake hits. Whether you want basic earthquake coverage or a comprehensive earthquake policy that covers earthquake damage to your home, business, or rental property, our team will guide you step by step.

For more than 175 years, C.T. Lowndes & Co has helped South Carolina homeowners and businesses secure insurance that helps protect what they value most.

Get your earthquake insurance quote today and speak with a local insurance agent who understands your needs.

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