Do I Need Earthquake Insurance in Tennessee?

Most people don’t think of Tennessee as earthquake country, but the state sits on two of the most active seismic zones in the eastern United States. If you own a home in Knoxville or anywhere in the state, it’s worth knowing what your policy does and doesn’t cover.

Where is the earthquake risk in Tennessee?

• The East Tennessee Seismic Zone runs through the valley from northeast Alabama up through Knoxville. It produces frequent small earthquakes, including a magnitude 4.4 quake near Decatur, Tennessee in December 2018 that was felt across Knoxville.
• The New Madrid Seismic Zone in West Tennessee produced a series of very large earthquakes in 1811 and 1812. Memphis and the surrounding area are among the most exposed places in the central U.S.

Doesn’t my homeowners policy cover earthquakes?

No. Standard homeowners policies exclude earthquake and other earth movement. Fire that breaks out after an earthquake is generally covered, but the shaking damage itself is not. You need a separate earthquake policy or an endorsement.

How does earthquake coverage work?

Earthquake coverage usually has its own deductible, often a percentage of your dwelling coverage, such as 5% to 20%. On a home insured for $350,000, a 10% deductible means you’d pay the first $35,000 of earthquake damage. Many policies let you add coverage for personal property and additional living expenses.

Is it expensive?

In much of Tennessee, earthquake coverage costs far less than people expect, especially in East Tennessee. Older brick and masonry homes and homes on hillsides tend to be more vulnerable, so they’re worth a closer look.

Want to know what earthquake coverage would cost for your home? We can quote it along with your homeowners policy.

This article is for general educational purposes only. Coverage, eligibility, discounts and pricing vary by carrier and policy. Talk with a licensed Tennessee insurance agent about your specific situation.