Homeowners and dwelling policies exclude earthquake damage. A homeowner who wants earthquake protection must buy separate earthquake coverage.

Fire is the main exception. The California Department of Insurance states that California homeowners and renters policies must cover fire caused by or following an earthquake, whether or not the owner has earthquake insurance.

Example: an earthquake cracks the walls, and a broken gas line then starts a fire in the garage. Without earthquake coverage, the cracked walls are not covered, but the garage fire damage is.