When it comes to umbrella insurance, questions abound. For example, one of the most common is “Does umbrella insurance cover earthquake damage?”. Keep reading to discover the answer and learn more about umbrella insurance.
What Is Umbrella Insurance?
Umbrella insurance, also known as personal umbrella liability insurance, is a type of insurance that offers additional liability protection above the limits of your existing insurance policies.
An umbrella policy adds an extra layer of coverage designed to protect you and your assets from liability claims or lawsuits that exceed the limits of your primary policies.
For example, here are some scenarios where umbrella insurance can kick if your existing coverage isn’t enough:
- You are involved in a car accident with multiple vehicles and you are found at fault
- Someone is injured on your property and you are found liable for their injuries
- Your dog bites someone and you are held liable for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
To learn more about umbrella insurance, check out our previous post, “Who Needs Umbrella Insurance?”
Does Umbrella Insurance Cover Earthquake Damage?
The quick, simple answer is no, umbrella insurance does not cover earthquake damage.
Remember that umbrella insurance is a type of liability insurance. In other words, its mission is to help pay for the damage you are responsible (or liable) for, as in the examples listed above.
It is worth keeping in mind that you need to purchase earthquake insurance separately as it is not included in homeowners, renters, or condominium insurance.
Earthquake Insurance in California
If you live in California, you have two options for earthquake coverage: CEA and non-CEA policies.
The CEA, or California Earthquake Authority, is not an insurance agency, but a nonprofit that works with 25 participating insurance companies. You need to have a residential insurance policy with one of those companies in order to purchase CEA Earthquake Insurance.
If your carrier does not participate in CEA, you still have options, as you can purchase a non-CEA policy.
Need help making sense of your alternatives? contact the experts at RF1 Insurance today to find an Earthquake Insurance policy that meets your needs.
RF1 Insurance Services: Dependable Insurance Coverage in Southern California
At RF1 Insurance, we work with some of the world’s most trusted insurance companies, including Safeco, Guard, Stillwater, National General Premier, Aegis, and the California FAIR Plan.
Contact us today by email (info@RF1ins.com), telephone (909-359-2067), or social media (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn) for a free quote or to learn more about a full range of insurance solutions.