Standard homeowners, renters and business insurance policies do not cover damage from earthquakes. Coverage is available either in the form of an endorsement or as a separate policy.

Earthquake insurance provides protection from the shaking and cracking that can destroy buildings and personal possessions. Coverage for other kinds of damage that may result from earthquakes, such as fire and water damage due to burst gas and water pipes, is provided by standard home and business insurance policies. Unlike flood insurance, earthquake coverage is available from private insurance companies rather than from the government.

In California, homeowners can also get coverage from the California Earthquake Authority (CEA), a privately funded, publicly managed organization.

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