The Mineral earthquake that occurred one year ago Thursday shook people's sense of security, and sent many scrambling for earthquake insurance. But despite this increase, the majority of Virginians are still without coverage.
"There's certainly been an increase, a small increase overall compared to a year ago," said State Farm agent Gary Albert.
Of the people who did get coverage, the majority are from counties such as Louisa and Fluvanna, places that were the most affected.
Earthquake insurance is purchased as an endorsement, which is something you add on to a policy. It can cost up to $400 a year, depending on the cost and size of the home and what it's made of.
State Farm agents say that out of everyone in the commonwealth who has a homeowners policy, less than 2 percent have an earthquake endorsement.
"Two percent overall just on the face doesn't sound like a big number, but it's a much bigger number here locally," Albert said.
But Albert said what's more important is that the earthquake opened up the conversation about coverage.
"By bringing the attention back to it on an anniversary like today is just a wonderful reminder to make sure that people don't get caught up in the here and now and remember hey let's keep this in mind in a greater context," he said. "Let's not forget about it because it might not ever happen again, hopefully it doesn't, but if it does we want our community to be prepared."
Agents also say that many people don't know what endorsements they have and what is excluded, so it's important to read the fine print in your policy and to talk to an insurance agent to make sure you know what's covered.
