"While North Carolina is not typically known for its earthquakes, the damage they can cause is generally not covered under most standard homeowners' insurance policies," North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey said. Credit: Jiri Flogel/Shutterstock.com
Two minor earthquakes — one of 2.3 magnitude and the other of 1.5 magnitude —were felt within an hour of each and a few miles apart in Surry County, North Carolina on Friday, March 31, 2024, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
While no major damage was reported, the state's insurance department is using the event to remind home policyholders to see if they are properly covered for damages caused by earthquakes.
"While North Carolina is not typically known for its earthquakes, the damage they can cause is generally not covered under most standard homeowners' insurance policies," North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey said in a release.
Although most home policies don't cover losses caused by earthquakes, the North Carolina Department of Insurance reported that direct loss by fire, explosion or theft resulting from an earthquake is typically covered. The department noted that comprehensive mobile homeowners policies do cover earth movement.
Homeowners should reach out to their insurance agents to discuss adding an earthquake endorsement, Causey urged. These endorsements can cover necessary repairs to a home and in some cases other unattached structures following an earthquake. The additional coverage can also protect personal property and cover debris removal costs and extra living expenses accrued while the home is being repaired or rebuilt.
"I also encourage consumers to get replacement coverage on both their homeowners' and automobile insurance policies," Causey said.
According to the USGS, earthquakes can occur in any state and each year there are around 500,000 earthquakes globally. Of those half a million annual earthquakes, only about 1 in 5 are felt and just 100 of them cause damage.
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