BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — Since the Ridgecrest earthquake, there has been an uptick of individuals requesting earthquake coverage.
Six months ago a 6.4 magnitude earthquake shook the area of Ridgecrest, Calif. Now, many have still found themselves affected by the earthquake damage and unable to move back into their homes because of much-needed repairs.
Seismologists say a long-awaited "Big One" lies beneath California's surface and experts are encouraging all to prepare.
"In Bakersfield, we don't honestly have many hot zones so it is very inexpensive in Bakersfield," said Siador. "I have seen polices as low as, less than $100 a year."
Sam Siador of Saber Insurance, says to find out if a home is in a hot zone or a fault line, contact the California Earthquake Authority. Also, you can reach out to your local insurance provider.
If one can't afford continual coverage there is another one-time cost option of retrofitting.
"You can also retrofit your house to withstand earthquakes," said Siador. "Retrofitting will require some work to the house where you have to customize your walls and put additional items into your foundation."
Although earthquake coverage varies per home, Siador says it's important to know that some earthquake coverage may not cover all the contents of a home.
"When you are shopping for an insurance policy be sure to check the coverage because there are other coverages you can get other than the home," Siador said. "You have to get coverage inside the home, fences and check your deductible."
Saber insurance adds that even before the Ridgecrest earthquake, for over two years, they have seen an increase in homeowners requesting earthquake coverage.
