What is Commercial Earthquake Insurance?

Commercial earthquake insurance is specialized coverage for earthquake damage to your restaurant’s property, which is excluded from standard commercial property policies.

What you need to know

Standard property insurance doesn’t cover earthquake damage—you must purchase this separately. It covers structural damage to your building, broken equipment, and lost inventory from earthquake events.

Why it matters for restaurant owners

If you operate in earthquake-prone areas (California, Pacific Northwest, Alaska), this coverage is essential despite higher premiums and deductibles. Even moderate earthquakes can shatter glass, topple equipment, and damage buildings beyond repair. Without coverage, you’re personally funding all repairs and replacement costs.

Evaluate your location’s seismic risk and your financial ability to rebuild before deciding whether to skip this coverage.