Question 1

Do I really need earthquake insurance in Whittier?

Accepted Answer

Given Whittier's location near the Whittier Narrows fault—capable of magnitude 6.0 to 7.2 earthquakes—earthquake insurance is strongly recommended. Standard home insurance doesn't cover earthquake damage to your home's structure. With the area experiencing magnitude 5+ quakes roughly every 10-15 years, the risk is real and ongoing. While earthquake insurance comes with high deductibles (typically 10-20% of dwelling coverage), it provides essential protection against catastrophic loss.

Question 2

Why is insurance more expensive for older homes in Whittier?

Accepted Answer

Homes over 50 years old typically cost about $1,352 annually to insure in Whittier, compared to $942 for new construction. Older homes often have outdated electrical systems, plumbing, and roofing that are more prone to failures and claims. They may also lack modern safety features like earthquake retrofitting. Additionally, if your historic home is damaged, rebuilding with period-appropriate materials and craftsmanship costs significantly more than standard construction, increasing the insurer's potential payout.

Question 3

What additional coverage do hillside homes in Whittier need?

Accepted Answer

Hillside properties in areas like College Hills face higher rebuilding costs due to difficult access and terrain challenges. You should ensure your dwelling coverage limit reflects these increased costs—extended replacement cost coverage of 125-150% is recommended. Also verify your policy's earth movement coverage, as landslides during heavy rains or seismic events are potential risks. Standard policies may exclude earth movement or only cover it under specific circumstances.

Question 4

How much does earthquake insurance cost through the California Earthquake Authority?

Accepted Answer

CEA earthquake insurance costs vary based on your home's age, location, construction type, and chosen deductible level. As of 2025, rates increased by 6.8%, averaging about $70 more per year for homeowners. The deductible is the bigger consideration—typically 10-20% of your dwelling coverage. For a $500,000 home with a 15% deductible, you'd pay the first $75,000 of repairs yourself. However, retrofitting older homes can reduce premiums by up to 25%.

Question 5

Can I get discounts on earthquake insurance for retrofitting my home?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The California Earthquake Authority offers premium discounts up to 25% for older homes that have been properly retrofitted with measures like foundation bolting and cripple wall bracing. These upgrades not only reduce your insurance costs but also significantly improve your home's ability to withstand earthquake shaking. Many of Whittier's historic homes benefit from both the premium savings and enhanced structural protection that retrofitting provides.

Question 6

What's the difference between replacement cost and market value for my Whittier home?

Accepted Answer

Market value is what a buyer would pay for your home, including the land. Replacement cost is what it would actually cost to rebuild your house if it were destroyed—just the structure, not the land. In Whittier's historic districts, replacement cost can exceed market value because period-appropriate reconstruction is expensive. Your insurance dwelling limit should be based on replacement cost, not market value, to ensure you have adequate coverage to rebuild after a major loss.

Insurance Agents in Whittier, California (CA)

Insurance agencies serving Whittier

California's Insurance Agency

Coverguard Insurance Agency

Insurance Agents in Whittier, California (CA)

Insurance agencies serving Whittier

California's Insurance Agency

Coverguard Insurance Agency

Economica Insurance

Economica Insurance

Esign Insurance

Henderson Inc

Parkville Insurance Services

Royal Shield Insurance Services

WBA Insurance

Whittier Health Insurance Solutions

Insurance Guides for Whittier

Home Insurance in Whittier

Car Insurance Costs in Whittier

Auto Insurance in Whittier

Insurance Guide for Whittier

Frequently asked questions