Earthquake Insurance in Charleston, SC
Because your peace of mind should be unshakeable.
Most people don’t think of South Carolina as being earthquake prone, but history and data tell a different story. Charleston was the site of one of the largest earthquakes in the eastern U.S., and today, dozens of small earthquakes are recorded each year.
Experts say it’s not if, but when, we have another major earthquake.
At The Ferguson Insurance Team, we help homeowners in the Lowcountry find earthquake coverage that fits their home and budget, so if the unexpected happens, you’re prepared.
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The Great Charleston Earthquake of 1886
On August 31, 1886, Charleston was rocked by a 7.3 magnitude earthquake that caused massive damage across the city. Chimneys collapsed, walls cracked, and homes were destroyed. The quake was felt as far away as Chicago, Boston, and even Cuba.
If you’ve ever seen an earthquake bolt on an old house downtown, then you’ve seen the lasting evidence of the quake. To repair the damaged buildings, iron rods were placed inside the walls of the structures and connected to bolts that were slowly tightened, pulling the houses back together.
The destructive earthquake wasn’t a fluke. South Carolina sits on an active seismic zone, and according to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources South Carolina averages 10 to 20 earthquakes each year.
What Does Earthquake Insurance Cover?
Earthquake insurance covers damage to your home and personal belongings caused directly by seismic activity, including:
- Cracked foundations or walls
- Collapsed roofs or chimneys
- Broken windows, pipes, and electrical systems
- Damage to personal property inside the home
- Additional living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable
How You Can Buy Earthquake Insurance
There are two main ways to add earthquake protection:
1. As an Add-On (Endorsement) to Your Homeowners Insurance
Some homeowners insurance carriers offer earthquake coverage as an optional endorsement. (what’s an endorsement? Click here to find out) These typically cover damage to your dwelling and belongings, but the coverage limits and deductibles can vary significantly.
2. As a Standalone Earthquake Policy
If your homeowners insurance doesn’t offer an earthquake add-on, we also offer standalone earthquake policies.
What’s Not Covered
Like most insurance, earthquake policies come with limitations and exclusions. These commonly include:
- Flooding or water damage caused by earthquakes (requires separate flood insurance)
- Fires or explosions following the quake (may be covered by homeowners)
- Damage to vehicles (covered under auto insurance with comprehensive coverage)
- Pre-existing structural issues or maintenance-related damage
How Earthquake Deductibles Work
Earthquake insurance typically has a percentage-based deductible of your dwelling coverage. (not the claim amount!) For example, if your home is insured for $400,000 and you have a 5% earthquake deductible, you’d be responsible for the first $20,000 in damages before insurance kicks in. Earthquake insurance tend to be higher than deductibles for other perils, intended to provide a safety net in the event of a catastrophic loss.
Do I Need Earthquake Insurance?
If you own a home in Charleston or the surrounding area, earthquake insurance is worth serious consideration. The potential cost of a major event could be devastating, especially since standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover it.
We can help you understand the cost of adding Earthquake coverage to your home, so you can decide what is right for you.
Why Choose The Ferguson Insurance Team?
We’ve been protecting Charleston-area families since 1981, and we understand the unique risks of living in the Lowcountry, earthquakes included. Whether you’re looking to add earthquake protection to an existing policy or need a standalone solution, we can help.
When you work with us, you get:
- Access to multiple earthquake insurance carriers
- Guidance on add-ons vs standalone policies
- Help understanding deductibles and exclusions
- A local team that’s just a phone call away
Secure Your Foundation
You can’t predict the next earthquake, but you can prepare for it. Let us help you find an earthquake insurance policy that fits your home, your risk tolerance, and your budget.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are aftershocks covered by earthquake insurance?
Yes, aftershocks are covered under your earthquake insurance policy. Most policies include a “hours clause” (typically 72-168 hours) that treats the initial quake and subsequent aftershocks as a single event. This means you’ll only pay one deductible for all related damage during that timeframe.
Do I really need Earthquake Insurance?
South Carolina has experienced significant earthquakes, including the 1886 Charleston earthquake, which was felt as far away as Boston, Chicago, and even Cuba! While major events are infrequent, the financial devastation from uninsured damage can be catastrophic. If rebuilding costs would strain your finances, earthquake insurance provides valuable protection. We can show you your options.
Is Earthquake Insurance Required in South Carolina?
No, earthquake insurance is not legally required in South Carolina, nor is it required by mortgage companies. However, standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover earthquake damage, so you’ll need a separate policy or endorsement to your homeowners policy to be covered.. Many South Carolina homeowners choose this optional coverage for added protection and peace of mind.
Can I add earthquake coverage to my existing policy?
Some insurance companies offer earthquake coverage as an endorsement to your existing homeowners policy. This is becoming less common, though. However, you can purchase a standalone earthquake policy. Adding an endorsement is often more convenient and may be less expensive than buying separate coverage. Our agents can help you decide.
What's the typical deductible for earthquake insurance?
Earthquake insurance deductibles typically range from 5% to 20% of your home’s insured value. While this is significantly higher than standard homeowners deductibles, this helps keep premiums lower.
What isn't covered by earthquake insurance?
Earthquake insurance has several common exclusions. Land damage, landscaping, trees, and lawns aren’t covered. Fire damage after earthquakes is covered by homeowners insurance, not earthquake policies. Vehicles also require comprehensive coverage instead.
Other Insurance You May Need
Homeowners Insurance
Coverage for your biggest investment can get complicated. Talk to an expert.
Auto Insurance
Bundling Home and Auto Insurance can save you money and make your life easier.
Flood Insurance
Flooding is not covered by your homeowners policy. Get covered before the storm.
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