Hi Marc,

You can ask your agent/broker to secure a quote for you from Geo Vera Insurance. EQ Insurance is all they sell and depending on where you are and how much coverage they are willing to offer, it might work for you.

I have fielded dozens of scenarios over the years that people present to me and I'd like to say something in general and perhaps this will make some sense to some.

Earthquakes equal RISK. How much risk is there? Today, in the SF Bay Area there is too much risk. It's higher now than it has been in a long time. So how does one assess spending money for insurance, versus saving money in a bank account?

If there is little risk, then perhaps putting money in the bank is a good idea. But if you saved $2,000 or so dollars last year and this year the EQ arrives that damages your home beyond your ability to restore it, then wouldn't you just kick yourself for not paying the premiums?

Another thought which comes to mind is that people buy automobiles today which used to be the price of a new home 30 years ago. They buy full coverage because they want to protect that $30,000 plus thousands of investment or loan value. But if you own a home that's worth over $300,000, how much insurance dollars are people willing to spend to protect that investment?

And lastly, for most a home is their greatest investment. It also provides retirement dollars when sold and a smaller home is purchased or in some cases it pays for care in a rest home at some point.

So you have to ask one question. Who do you want to pay for your home damages after an earthquake? You, your insurer or hope FEMA will bail you out? I'd prefer to have insurance dollars and keep mine in the bank. And only look to FEMA if you love long lines, don't know what you might get paid and spend countless months being frustrated.

I hope that helps....Petra