Standard homeowners insurance does not cover earthquakes; you need a separate earthquake policy, most commonly through the CEA in California. Homeowners policies also usually have low theft sublimits for jewelry, watches and designer bags, so high-value items should be scheduled separately.
Earthquake is separate
Homeowners, condo and renters policies all exclude earthquake.
Check personal property limits
Is the total enough, and are there sublimits for valuables?
Schedule valuables
List bags, jewelry and watches individually for fuller protection.
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Earthquake coverage
Homeowners (HO3), condo (HO6) and renters policies exclude earthquake damage. In California, earthquake coverage is bought separately, most often from the California Earthquake Authority (CEA) or a private insurer.
Earthquake deductibles are usually a percentage of the coverage amount and much higher than homeowners deductibles. Condo earthquake options are more limited.
Valuables
- One total limit for personal property
- Theft sublimits for jewelry, watches, bags
- Sublimits are often a few thousand dollars
- Payment may be depreciated
- Each item listed and insured
- Usually not subject to the sublimit
- Some policies cover loss too
- Receipts or appraisals required
A real case: six figures in designer bags
A condo owner asked what would be paid if her belongings were stolen. Her personal property limit was $25,000, while her designer bags were worth well into six figures. We priced two options: raising the overall limit or scheduling the high-value bags. We also added CEA earthquake coverage on her other home.
Results depend on individual circumstances. Identifying details removed.
Frequently asked questions
Does California law require earthquake insurance?
No, but insurers must offer it with homeowners policies; it is your choice.
Is flood covered?
No. Flood needs a separate policy through NFIP or a private insurer.
If I lose a bag (not stolen), am I covered?
Standard policies usually cover named perils only, so simple loss often isn't covered; some scheduled-item coverage includes loss.
This article is general information for California and is not a promise of coverage or claim payment. Coverage, pricing and terms depend on each insurer's policy and underwriting.