June 1, 2021

PREPARE FOR CATASTROPHES WITH EARTHQUAKE INSURANCE

Earthquakes don’t happen in California daily, despite what some folks believe. The incidents do occur from time to time and cause chaos, though. They are responsible for injuries, deaths, and damages. Speaking of damages, that is why we are here today. This post will focus on several issues that a person’s home could sustain in earthquakes, but before getting to them, let’s take this time to discuss something else.

An earthquake can strike in the blink of an eye and without warning. That is why homeowners need to prepare for the events. They should plan evacuation routes, put emergency kits together, and purchase earthquake insurance. Do you already own a homeowners insurance policy? Yes, well, good for you. That means you might not have to pay out of pocket for repairs following certain catastrophes, but earthquakes may not make the list.

Sure, your plan could cover flood, smoke, and fire damage. It might also take care of damages caused by falling trees or limbs. However, when it comes to tremors, you may not be covered.

Do you need earthquake insurance? If so, you’ve come to the right place because our agency can help you out. We work with many companies to ensure clients get the coverages they need at the best prices. Now, let’s look at some of the issues that present themselves after earthquakes.

Cracks Develop In The Foundation

Homes on concrete slabs are built to last. They are sturdy and strong, but if those foundations become cracked, that can spell big trouble. The structural integrity of the places can come into question. Repairs are needed to keep them sound, that is, providing that they can be fixed. Sometimes, the damages are too severe, and the houses get condemned. They just aren’t safe to stay in anymore because of the chance that they could collapse.

Foundation repairs aren’t cheap. The amount is often determined by where a person lives and the extent of the damage, but according to Thumbtack, these restorations sometimes run $10,000 or more. That’s a lot of dough that many homeowners don’t have in the bank. If you’re one of them, protect yourself with earthquake insurance.

Plaster, Drywall, And Siding Breaks

When earthquakes happen, it is not uncommon for walls and ceilings to crack. Drywall and plaster simply cannot hold up the shaking. Siding can be impacted by the rumbling as well. These issues range from minor to severe. As such, sometimes patches and repairs can be made to get things back in order. On other occasions, materials must be replaced. Earthquake insurance can keep these costs from emptying your bank.

Busted Water Lines And Drains

With all of the shifting and commotion that earthquakes cause, plumbing systems can take beatings. Water lines can burst, creating huge messes. Drains can break too. Then, every time somebody uses a sink, toilet, or shower, water gets inside homes. H2O can buckle wood floors, ruin belongings, and more. As with the other issues discussed here, these can be quite pricey too.