Most homeowners likely know that, regardless where they live, they may be exposed to a catastrophic loss such as flooding. It is definitely not restricted to a coastal property. However, the same cannot be said concerning earthquakes. It is much more likely that only persons living in well-known earthquake areas (such as California and Alaska) have a high awareness of its danger.
However, the danger of earthquake exists in our area of the United States. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, Virginia's largest earthquake was a 5.9 Magnitude in Giles County in 1897. Also, North Carolina's largest earthquake was a 5.2 Magnitude near Waynesville in 1916. In the last decade, regular activity has been measured in this Seismic Zone.
While many persons may be exposed to the danger of earthquake, only a fraction of such property owners carry the proper level of insurance. Basic homeowner coverage does NOT include protection against earthquakes. Without purchasing specific earthquake insurance, the only protection available for a policyholder is against limited, consequential damage.