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"I discovered Shepard Insurance about 5 years ago, while shopping around for competitive auto insurance policies. Not only were their prices enticing enough to encourage me to sign on with them, but their customer service has been what has kept me a loyal customer for five years. Since that auto policy, I've since purchased a home, and started a new business, both of which are also covered by Shepard. Luz and her team have been great, keeping in step with my every need."
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"Here at Integrated Home Construction, we take our business very, very seriously. That’s why when it comes to our insurance needs, we turn to the best: the people of Shepard Insurance Agency."
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Possibly the most important thing to know about earthquake insurance is this: A basic homeowners policy does not cover earthquake damage. Even if you don’t live in an area where earthquakes are common, you should still consider earthquake insurance. For most of us, our houses are not only our homes, but also the single biggest financial investment of our lives.  Is it worth taking a risk by not having your home covered in the event of an earthquake? 

If you decide that you need earthquake insurance, ideally your earthquake insurance policy should cover the cost to replace or repair your damaged property. There are several options to consider when choosing a plan, including:

  • Does the policy cover only the dwelling? Are accessory structures, such as garages, also included?
  • Will your policy pay for the contents of your home and for additional living expenses if your home is badly damaged or destroyed?
  • Are there any exclusions or limitations to your coverage?
  • What deductible must you pay before the insurance kicks in?

Earthquake insurance rates are determined differently by each insurance company and can vary widely depending on several factors. Generally, older homes cost more to insure. Wood homes get better rates than brick buildings, because wood tends to withstand earthquake stresses better. In addition, areas are graded on a scale for likelihood of earthquakes, and this might be reflected in earthquake insurance rates. Because earthquake insurance is a type of catastrophic coverage, most policies carry a high deductible—usually anywhere from 10 to 25% of your coverage limit.

If you ultimately decide to purchase earthquake insurance, you should buy enough to cover the costs of rebuilding your house and replacing broken possessions, not just their market values.

Shepard Insurance Agency strongly recommends that you carry earthquake insurance.  You never know when the next earthquake will happen and if it will affect you or not.  We believe this is just too big a chance to take.