Earthquake Damage

Mission Property Loss Consultants public adjusters are experts in managing earthquake damage claims, ensuring all damage is thoroughly documented and you receive the necessary compensation for repairs and rebuilding.

Earthquake damage and your policy

Most standard commercial and residential property policies exclude earthquake and other earth movement. Coverage generally requires a separate earthquake policy or an endorsement, and the terms often differ from your main policy. Earthquake deductibles are often a percentage of the insured value rather than a flat amount, and limits or sublimits may apply. Earthquake risk is also not limited to the West Coast, since seismic zones exist in the central and southeastern United States as well.

Related coverage worth checking

• Fire following an earthquake. Fire is commonly covered even when the earthquake itself is excluded, subject to your policy and state rules.
• Water damage from broken pipes. Coverage can depend on how the policy treats earth movement as the cause.
• Business income. Available only if your coverage extends to the earthquake cause of loss.
• Ordinance or law. Code upgrades required in rebuilding may not be included unless endorsed.

Why earthquake claims are hard

• Hidden structural damage. Foundation, framing and connection damage may not be visible at first.
• Multiple shocks. Policies often treat aftershocks within a set period as one occurrence, which affects how the deductible applies.
• Cause disputes. Carriers may attribute cracks to settling or age instead of seismic movement.
• Deductible math. A percentage deductible can absorb a large part of moderate damage.

What to do after an earthquake

• Make sure the building is safe before re-entering, and follow authorities’ guidance.
• Photograph and video all damage, including cracks and shifted items.
• Shut off utilities if needed, and make temporary repairs to prevent further damage while keeping receipts.
• Notify your insurer, and confirm whether you have a separate earthquake policy or endorsement.
• Have a structural engineer inspect the property before repairs are finalized.

How Mission PLC helps

We identify every policy and endorsement that could apply, document visible and hidden damage with engineers and contractors, and prepare a full estimate. We then work with the carrier to resolve scope and deductible questions so the claim reflects the actual loss.

Earthquake claim questions

This page is general information, not legal or insurance advice. What is covered depends on your specific policy, its endorsements and your state’s rules.

Why Choose Mission Property Loss Consultants for Earthquake Damage Claims?

Comprehensive Assessments:  Detailed inspections to document all earthquake-related damage.

Accurate Reporting: Thorough documentation to support your earthquake damage claim.

Claim Management: Expert handling of your claim for a smooth process.

Client Advocacy: Committed to securing fair compensation for your claim.

If your property has suffered earthquake damage, contact Mission Property Loss Consultants today.

Our dedicated public adjusters are here to help you navigate the claims process, ensuring you receive the full compensation you deserve. Let us assist you with your earthquake damage claim.

Contact Us Now

• + 1-833-446-7728
• info@missionplc.com