Question 1

Does homeowners insurance cover earthquake damage in Seattle?

Accepted Answer

No, standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover earthquake damage. You need to purchase separate earthquake insurance either as an endorsement to your existing policy or as a standalone policy. This is true throughout Washington state, including Seattle, despite the region's high seismic risk.

Question 2

How much does earthquake insurance cost in Seattle?

Accepted Answer

In Washington state, earthquake insurance typically costs between $750 and $1,625 annually for a $500,000 home, according to 2024 data. Wood-frame homes cost about $1.50 per $1,000 of coverage, while brick or unreinforced masonry homes cost approximately $3 per $1,000 of coverage. Your actual cost depends on your home's age, construction type, location, and chosen deductible.

Question 3

What is the deductible for earthquake insurance?

Accepted Answer

Earthquake insurance deductibles in Washington are percentage-based, typically ranging from 10% to 25% of your dwelling coverage amount. For example, if your home is insured for $500,000 with a 15% deductible, you would pay the first $75,000 of earthquake damage out of pocket before your insurance coverage begins. This is significantly higher than typical homeowners insurance deductibles.

Question 4

What are unreinforced masonry buildings and why do they matter for earthquake insurance?

Accepted Answer

Unreinforced masonry (URM) buildings are structures with brick or stone walls that aren't properly anchored to floors and roofs, making them extremely vulnerable to collapse during earthquakes. Seattle has over 1,100 URM buildings, mostly built before 1940, and only 20% have received seismic upgrades. If you live or work in a URM building, earthquake insurance is especially important, though it may also be more expensive.

Question 5

How likely is a major earthquake in Seattle?

Accepted Answer

Seattle has an 86% chance of experiencing a damaging earthquake within the next 50 years. The region faces threats from both the offshore Cascadia Subduction Zone, which has a 37-43% chance of producing a magnitude 8.0+ earthquake in the next 50 years, and the Seattle Fault running directly beneath the city. The last major Cascadia earthquake occurred in 1700.

Question 6

Can I get earthquake insurance as a renter in Seattle?

Accepted Answer

Yes, renters can and should consider earthquake insurance. While your landlord's policy covers the building structure, it won't replace your personal belongings or cover temporary housing if the building becomes uninhabitable after an earthquake. Earthquake coverage for renters is typically much cheaper than for homeowners, often costing just a few hundred dollars per year.

Insurance Agents in Seattle, Washington (WA)

Insurance agencies serving Seattle

Bright Insurance Agency

Christopher Togawa Ins Agency, Inc

Insurance Agents in Seattle, Washington (WA)

Insurance agencies serving Seattle

Bright Insurance Agency

Christopher Togawa Ins Agency, Inc

DML Insurance Services Inc

Everguard Insurance Group

MHT Insurance

Montlake Insurance Group

Moreland Insurance Agency

Nextgen Insurance

Nextgen Insurance

PNW Financial

Insurance Guides for Seattle

Earthquake Insurance in Seattle

Home Insurance in Seattle

Seattle Insurance Guide

Auto Insurance in Seattle

Car Insurance Costs in Seattle

Car Insurance in Seattle

Frequently asked questions