This week marks 323 years since a major earthquake struck the Pacfic Northwest. According to the Oregon Office of Emergency Management, there is a 1 and 10 chance that a major earthquake will strike Oregon again within the next fifty years, but we all know mother nature plays by her own rules. In the case of a significant event know the facts that will help protect you, your family, and your property.
Make Sure You Are Covered. Most homeowner, mobile home, condominium, and renter insurance policies do not cover earthquake damage. The means if an earthquake destroys your home, you lose everything. Since, for most homeowners their biggest investment is their home, a separate earthquake insurance policy may help protect that investment.
Living Expenses. If earthquake damage to your home is so severe that you must move out, coverage for additional living expenses is available only if you have earthquake coverage. Check with your agent when purchasing earthquake coverage to make sure that the additional living expense coverage extends to earthquake damage.
When to buy. Most insurers place a moratorium on selling earthquake coverage for a period of time after any significant seismic event. So, buy earthquake insurance before an earthquake strikes.
Earthquake coverage is available for personal and property damage to your home and commercial property. Earthquake coverage carries a separate deductible that is often a percentage of the coverage rather than a fixed dollar amount.
In the event an earthquake strikes, familiarize yourself and your family with the immediate safety protocol and have an emergency supply kit, at the ready.
Have Questions? The team at EPB&B can help.