Earthquake Insurance Calculator

Earthquake is excluded from standard homeowner policies — separate coverage required for protection. This calculator estimates premium by seismic zone, construction type, and retrofit status with realistic deductible handling.

Dwelling coverage

Deductible % of coverage

Seismic risk zone

Construction type

Bolted to foundation

Annual premium estimate

$1,445

Monthly equivalent

$120

Deductible (your out-of-pocket)

$97,500

How the math works

Earthquake coverage is a separate peril policy, usually through state programs like the California Earthquake Authority (CEA) or private carriers. Deductibles are typically 10–25% of dwelling coverage — you pay the first $100k+ on a $650k home.

In high-risk zones, premiums often run 0.3–0.5% of coverage. Wood-frame homes cost less than unreinforced masonry. Retrofit credits for bolted foundations and cripple-wall bracing reduce premiums significantly.

How to Use

Set dwelling coverage to the replacement cost of your home (not market value).
Pick a deductible percentage. Higher deductibles reduce premium substantially; 15% is typical for CEA.
Select your seismic zone. California coastal and Pacific Northwest (Cascadia) are highest.
Pick construction type. Wood frame flexes in quakes; unreinforced masonry is the riskiest.
Indicate whether the home is bolted to its foundation (retrofit discount).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is earthquake insurance required?

No — no lender requirement at federal level. It's elective. Roughly 10% of Californian homeowners carry it. The decision comes down to your risk tolerance and ability to absorb a 15–20% of home value deductible plus the uninsured gap.

What does the CEA cover?

California Earthquake Authority policies cover dwelling, personal property (optional), and loss of use. They don't cover swimming pools, detached garages, or landscaping unless endorsed. Read the limits carefully.

What's a soft-story retrofit?

Older homes with a garage or open living space on the ground floor are 'soft-story' and collapse-prone in earthquakes. Retrofit with steel frames or plywood shear walls costs $3,000–$10,000 and reduces insurance premium 20–30%.

Should I get private or CEA?

CEA is the default for most California homeowners and has broader participation. Private carriers (GeoVera, Palomar) may beat CEA on price or offer better coverage for newer/retrofit homes. Shop both every renewal.