A pair of recent rumblings in North Carolina have led Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey to remind the state’s residents to make sure they are covered from the impacts of natural disasters. This can be achieved by checking in with their insurance agent to review their individual policies.
Over Easter weekend, two small earthquakes were felt in Surry County -- both within a few miles of each other. According to the United State Geological Survey (USGS), the first was a 2.3 magnitude earthquake that hit about 20 miles west of Mount Airy. The second earthquake was a 1.5 magnitude.
“While North Carolina is not typically known for its earthquakes, the damage they can cause is generally not covered under most standard homeowners’ insurance policies,” Commissioner Causey noted. “However, homeowners can talk with their agents and easily add an earthquake endorsement to their policies. I also encourage consumers to get replacement coverage on both their homeowners’ and automobile insurance policies.”
In 2020, a 5.1 magnitude earthquake, centered in Sparta, was felt across North Carolina. It was the strongest earthquake to hit North Carolina since 1916. There were no reports of fatalities but many homes and businesses were damaged.
“For most families, their home is their biggest investment,” said Commissioner Causey. “I urge homeowners to protect their investment by making sure they have sufficient insurance coverage, and to make sure they review their coverage with their insurance agent at least annually.”
While insurance for earthquake damage isn’t a part of a normal Homeowner's, Dwelling, Renters, or Condo policy, you may be able to add it by buying an endorsement (a written change to your coverage, that is added to your policy).
For more information about earthquake insurance coverage, visit our website at: Earthquake Coverage | NC DOI