Editorial guides
Earthquakes guides
Source-backed Earthquakes guidance for US homeowners — insurance, prep, and how to read a hazard page.
Earthquake damage isn't covered by a standard homeowners, renters or condo policy, except for fire after the quake (California Department of Insurance). That makes two decisions central: whether to buy earthquake coverage, and whether to retrofit the house. In California, the USGS forecast puts the chance of at least one magnitude 6.7 or larger quake in the next 30 years at more than 99% (USGS).
The California earthquake page covers CEA deductibles and the Brace + Bolt grant. For the structural side, read retrofit basics and how to strap a water heater. For coverage, see earthquake insurance costs, including outside California.
