Does My Homeowners Insurance Cover Earthquake Damage? What Murray Residents Need to Know

Murray, UT residents may face risks that are not always addressed by a standard homeowners insurance policy. Earthquake-related losses, for example, may require separate coverage. Statewide Insurance Agency can help you better understand your insurance options.

Does Standard Homeowners Insurance Cover Earthquakes?

Standard homeowners insurance in Utah typically does not cover earthquake damage. Most policies exclude “earth movement,” including tremors, ground shifting and volcanic eruptions, which means repair and replacement costs may fall entirely on the homeowner.

Understanding Earthquake Coverage Options

Separate earthquake coverage may be worth considering for homeowners in seismically active areas. This coverage can generally be added as an endorsement to an existing policy or purchased as a standalone policy, and may cover:

• Dwelling: Repair or rebuilding costs for your home’s structure.
• Personal Property: Replacement of furniture, electronics and other belongings lost or damaged.
• Loss of Use: Additional living expenses if displacement is necessary during repairs.

Note that earthquake insurance typically uses a percentage-based deductible, which may result in a higher out-of-pocket amount than a standard policy deductible.

When to Review Your Earthquake Coverage

Earthquake coverage needs may change over time. A policy review may be worth considering if:

• A recent tremor has occurred nearby: Local seismic activity may be a good time to revisit your coverage.
• Your home has been renovated: Additions or major upgrades can affect rebuilding costs.
• Property values have increased: Higher values may result in greater financial exposure after a loss.
• You’ve purchased valuable belongings: Certain items may require additional coverage considerations.
• You’ve never reviewed earthquake exclusions: Confirming what your policy may or may not cover can help avoid surprises.

Get Started Today

Contact Statewide Insurance Agency to discuss your insurance options and request an instant quote online.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.