With the California Great ShakeOut approaching, earthquake readiness is top of mind. In this episode of Speaking of Insurance, Aaron Bollinger breaks down whether earthquake insurance is actually worth the cost in California and highlights the key questions homeowners must ask before buying a policy.

We cover:

• Current Coverage Check: Why standard homeowners policies exclude earthquake, flood, and water damage, and how to identify what you already have.
• Understanding Deductibles: How percentage-based deductibles (typically 5% to 15%) work and why paying $50,000 to $100,000+ out of pocket can impact your financial readiness.
• Key Policy Exclusions & Extras: Why temporary living coverage (Loss of Use) isn't always included by default and why you need it if your home becomes uninhabitable.
• Underwriting & Retrofitting: How older home construction, foundation types (slab vs. raised/crawlspace), and zip code location affect pricing and eligibility.
• Carrier Options: Comparing private insurers (like GeoVera or Palomar) against the California Earthquake Authority (CEA) and the benefits of bundling coverage where available.
• Financial Decision-Making: How to perform a practical pros-and-cons analysis based on your household's emergency funds and overall risk tolerance.

The bottom line: Earthquake insurance can be a critical safety net, but only if you clearly understand your policy exclusions, ensure your deductible is manageable, and verify that temporary living costs are covered before a disaster strikes.

Speaking of Insurance is hosted by Aaron Bollinger and Brian Bollinger of Bollinsure Insurance Services.

Learn more or request an insurance review:

Bollinsure Insurance Services

562-268-9355

quotes@bollinsure.com

California Insurance License #6013787