With an unusual East Coast earthquake rattling homes and businesses this week as well as Hurricane Irene nipping at our heels, we thought it might be a good time to give some advice on Natural Disaster Insurance. Most homes that do not usually expect seismic activity DO NOT have structural damage coverage from earthquakes in their homeowners policies. What may be covered under an existing policy is if there is damage to pipes (pipes burst), a fire starts or if a tree should fall on your home. But if your windows shatter or your walls crack – you may not be covered. The most common exclusions to a standard policy include water damage, as well as damage caused by earth movement. Earthquake Insurance can be purchased as a rider to your current homeowners policy, and would cover any structural damages.

Natural Disaster Insurance, a.k.a. Catastrophe Risk Insurance, can also be taken out for Flooding (such as from Hurricanes) and Tsunamis. Flood Insurance is another rider policy that many may not have. As mentioned above, water damage may not be covered under your existing standard homeowners policy. Flood insurance is offered nationally through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). You can contact Health Insurance Specialistsabout adding Flood Insurance to your current homeowners, renters or business policy.