Glossary
Earthquake deductible
The share of the insured value you pay before earthquake coverage responds, expressed as a percentage that is far higher than a regular home deductible.
Also called: earthquake insurance deductible, EQ deductible
A standard homeowners policy excludes earth movement, so earthquake coverage comes by endorsement or a separate policy, and it carries its own deductible. That deductible is a percentage of the coverage limit, not a dollar amount, and it is much higher than what you pay for fire or theft. The California Earthquake Authority, for example, offers deductible choices of 5%, 10%, 15%, 20% and 25% of the dwelling limit; check its current options before buying.
Say your dwelling limit is $500,000 and your earthquake deductible is 10%. You pay the first $50,000. If covered damage is $80,000, the policy pays $30,000. Because the deductible is so large, a lot of common earthquake damage, such as a cracked chimney, a shifted porch or broken windows, may never rise above it.
A lower percentage costs more in premium, so the choice is a trade-off between cash flow now and exposure later. Ask whether the deductible applies to the dwelling only or separately to belongings and living expenses, since insurers differ.
Our guides to why earthquake deductibles are so high and earthquake insurance explained cover the details, and the earthquake insurance entry defines the product.
Last reviewed October 10, 2026