How volcano damage may be covered by your insurance
Most homeowners and auto insurance policies cover you from some damage related to a volcanic eruption, but there are exceptions.
You can learn about volcano information and eruption risks in your area by visiting the United States Geological Survey Volcano Hazards Program, which posts up-to-date information about volcanic activity, including a color-coded risk assessment system for individual volcanoes. If you live within 20 miles of a volcano, take a moment to find out more about how your family can prepare for and respond to a volcano eruption.
Some of the effects of volcanic eruption include: airborne shock waves, volcanic blast, dust, ash or lava flow. Review your homeowners insurance policy, renters insurance policy or auto insurance policy to understand coverages for property loss caused by volcanic eruption and its effects. Also check to see how fire or explosion resulting from volcanic eruption might be covered.
It's extremely helpful to have a home inventory of your personal property. This information can help confirm you have the right amount of coverage and can also be very helpful during a claim review. To learn more, contact an insurance agent.
What might be covered from property loss caused by a volcanic eruption
- Direct, sudden damage to your vehicle is covered under most automobile insurance policies if you have comprehensive coverage at the time of the loss.
- A vehicle crash that happens during or after a volcanic eruption would be covered under the terms of your policy, like any other crash.
- Damage to property caused by dust, lava flow or airborne shockwaves after a volcanic eruption.
What might not be covered from property loss caused by a volcanic eruption
- Most homeowners insurance policies have an exclusion for damage resulting from earthquakes, landslides, mudflows, earth tremors or other earth movements regardless if the earthquake is the cause or the result of the volcano eruption. Earthquake coverage is usually available either by endorsement for an additional charge or by purchasing a separate earthquake policy. Most insurance companies won't issue earthquake policies during or immediately after an earthquake.
- Flood damage isn't covered under a typical homeowners insurance policy. Flood insurance is available through the National Flood Insurance Program, as long as the policy is in force prior to a flood.
- Check with your insurance agent or insurance carrier to determine if damage caused by volcanic action is covered by your policy.
- Expenses incurred for preventive measures are not covered under either the auto or homeowners policy.
- Cost for ash removal may be covered for building structures or personal property contained in a building structure if the ash has caused accidental direct physical loss.
- Most policies don't cover damage that occurs to homes or vehicles over time due to volcanic dust or ash.
- Wear and tear from any circumstance is generally not covered.
If you are concerned about property loss from volcanic activity, contact an insurance agent who is familiar with the risks in your area.
