What is Earthquake Program (International)?
An international earthquake insurance program provides property and liability protection for exposures located outside a single domestic market. These programs are designed to help organizations manage seismic risk across multiple countries, coordinate claims handling and limits, and align policy terms for multinational operations. Such coverage often complements other risk transfer solutions like commercial liability, property coverage, and equipment coverage to create a broader risk-management approach.
Who needs it
Organizations with assets, operations, or events in multiple countries commonly seek international earthquake programs. Typical buyers include clubs, associations, manufacturers, retailers, contractors, event organizers, and facility operators. A small branch with critical equipment in a seismic zone or a global operator with distributed facilities may both benefit from coordinated protection.
What it typically covers
International earthquake programs vary, but common coverages include:
- Physical damage to buildings and contents caused by seismic activity
- Business interruption and contingent business interruption for suspended operations
- Debris removal, stabilization and emergency response costs
- Specified extensions for equipment coverage and temporary relocation
Some carriers and markets specialize in modular solutions — for example, consult the Monoline Earthquake Insurance: Safeguarding What Matters in High-Risk Zones storefront for approaches tailored to high-risk locations. For policy structuring that may include difference-in-conditions (DIC) wording, see DIC-Earthquake — Continental Risk for an example of how DIC layering can be used in earthquake placements.
Common exclusions or limitations
Standard exclusions often include gradual deterioration, wear and tear, war or civil commotion, and losses caused by non-seismic perils. Limits, sublimits, waiting periods and policy territories can also restrict recovery. Be mindful of single-event aggregate limits and exclusions for certain types of equipment or non-fixed property.
Factors that influence cost
Underwriting factors include seismic hazard at each location, construction type, age of structures, occupancy and use, proximity to fault lines, and loss history. Risk management steps such as retrofitting, emergency planning, and mitigation measures can improve insurability and pricing. Transportation risks and operational hazards tied to logistics or high-value inventory will also affect premiums and terms.
Proof of insurance & compliance
Multinational programs frequently require certificates, master policies, and local certificates to meet local contractual or regulatory needs. Insurers may issue a global master policy plus local evidence of insurance to satisfy landlords, lenders or contracting partners. For program administration and carrier options, some firms look to established providers such as NAPCO LLC for program-specific documentation and market access.
How to get a quote
To request pricing, gather basic location lists, building details, occupancy, valuation approach and loss-control measures. Work with a broker experienced in international placements who can consolidate exposures and negotiate compatible terms across jurisdictions. If you prefer to start online or need assistance coordinating a placement, you can talk to your agent about an international earthquake program.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does an international program differ from local earthquake insurance?
An international program coordinates coverage across countries with a master policy framework and local evidence of insurance, while local policies typically cover risks within a single jurisdiction with localized terms and compliance requirements.
Can business interruption be included for international operations?
Yes. Business interruption and contingent business interruption can be part of a program, but coverage triggers, waiting periods and limits vary by insurer and location.
What should I provide when requesting a quote?
Provide a list of locations, building construction and values, occupancy details, recent loss history, and any mitigation measures. This helps underwriters assess exposure and offer comparable terms across territories.
Still have questions? Talk to a local insurance expert.