Earthquake Insurance
Earthquakes can strike anywhere, anytime, and without prior warning - and your best bet is to make sure that you and your family are prepared in case an earthquake happens.
Most of New England's seismic events are small and cause no damage; however, damage is still possible. Major earthquakes - reaching magnitudes as high as 6.5 have brought widespread destruction to new England before.
Earthquake coverage is low in cost and can easily be added to your existing homeowner/condo/tenant policy protecting your dwelling and the contents of your home. To get more information on preparing your home for an earthquake or to learn more about this valuable coverage, please call us at 800-333-7234 or complete our quote request form.
Earthquake Disaster Preparedness starts with education:
- Make sure that your family - especially your children - knows where to go should an earthquake occur. The best course of action is to "duck and cover" under a sturdy, heavy piece of furniture.
- Be patient and wait in your hiding place for several minutes after an earthquake, since aftershocks may occur.
- Teach your children that it's OK to stay at school or daycare after an earthquake strikes, and that you will pick them up as soon as it's safe.
- Have one or more disaster kits ready in your home, car, and in a safe place outside your home. To learn what should be included, visit www.fema.gov or www.ready.gov.
- In your home, securely fasten shelves and furniture to walls, store large or heavy items on lower shelves, and learn how to turn off gas and water lines if necessary. To turn your gas line back on, you need to contact the responsible authority.
- If your home was built before 1980 there is a chance that it may not be "retrofitted", i.e. your foundation may not be bolted. In case of a quake this may cause even more damage to your house.
- Keep in mind that a standard homeowner's policy does NOT cover any damage caused by an earthquake. If you would like to insure your home for earthquake damage, we can help! Endorsements are available to add Earthquake coverage that supplements your homeowners policy.