Japan records thousands of earthquakes a year; most are harmless, some are not. If your house is empty when a strong one hits, someone needs to look — safely — and record what they find.
When to check
The Japan Meteorological Agency reports shaking on its seismic intensity scale (震度), from 0 to 7. As a rule of thumb, a reading of 5 lower or above near the house is worth a visit; at 6 and above, expect damage in older homes. Wait until aftershocks ease and the area is safe.
What to check
- Outside: roof tiles, chimneys, block walls (which can topple), the foundations and any new cracks, retaining walls on sloping plots.
- Inside: sliding doors that no longer run true (a sign the frame has shifted), new cracks in plaster, water leaks, the smell of gas.
- Services: gas meters in Japan shut off automatically on strong shaking and need resetting; check water for leaks at the meter.
Earthquake insurance
Japanese earthquake insurance (地震保険) is sold only together with fire insurance and covers up to half the fire policy's amount. Damage is assessed in four grades — total, large partial, small partial and partial loss — paying 100%, 60%, 30% and 5% of the insured amount respectively. Claims generally must be made within three years. Fire caused by an earthquake is covered by the earthquake policy, not the fire policy.
Why photos matter
Adjusters compare the house's condition before and after. Dated photos from regular visits make claims faster and fairer. See our after-an-earthquake checklist and home insurance help.
How we help
When a strong quake hits a prefecture where we look after homes, we check those houses as soon as it's safe and send owners photos — and, if needed, meet the adjuster on site.
