Maryland Earthquake Insurance
A few hours ago, the ceiling at McFarlin Insurance began rumbling. While this is not uncommon as they often have contractors working on the roof, something about this rumble was different. After a few seconds, all of us realized this rumbling was more than the HVAC technician checking on the cooling tower. It was an earthquake.
After the brief shaking had ceased and we had a good laugh knowing that everything was okay and no one was harmed – the phone began to ring. “Do I have earthquake insurance?”
Like many coverage questions we receive, the answer is a firm maybe.
Under a standard homeowners policy, earthquake coverage is typically not included but can be added cheaply, by endorsement from the carrier (as opposed to flood insurance which must be purchased through the National Flood Insurance Program).
Same thing goes for commercial insurance – a standard ISO property policy does not cover earthquake damage but most carriers can include this coverage by endorsement for a minimal increase in premium. While there are specialized property coverages like a Commercial Output Policy (COP) or Difference in Conditions (DIC) coverage that cover earthquake losses, the stand-alone earthquake endorsement is readily available in Maryland by most carriers.
What about your car? Well, earthquake damage is usually not excluded under a standard personal or commercial auto policy PROVIDED YOU CARRY PHYSICAL DAMAGE COVERAGE. So, the 20-year-old F-150 that you’re only paying liability insurance for? Unfortunately there would be no coverage in the event the Earth opens up and swallows it.
Earthquake coverage is available in Maryland via most standard market insurance carriers because, up until today, Maryland has not been historically prone to earthquakes. A few standard policies even include “throw-ins” that provide small coverage limits at no additional cost.
Still have questions? Finished making sure your china cabinet is firmly in place? Give McFarlin Insurance a call today! We’ll be happy to take a few moments to discuss your unique situation and offer insightful and cost-effective solutions.