What to Do After a California Earthquake: Safety Tips, Legal Rights, and Recovery Resources

Earthquakes are a fact of life in California. Whether you’ve lived through dozens or just experienced your first tremor, the moments and days that follow can be confusing and stressful. But knowing what to do after a quake can make all the difference—for your safety, your home, and your legal protection.

This guide offers essential steps to take immediately after an earthquake, outlines your legal rights, and provides trusted resources to help you recover and prepare for the next one.

1. Stay Safe in the Immediate Aftermath

Once the shaking stops, your first priority is safety. Even small quakes can cause structural damage, gas leaks, or downed power lines.

• Check for injuries. Tend to yourself and those nearby. If someone is seriously hurt, call 911.

• Avoid damaged structures. Cracked walls, fallen debris, or sagging roofs can signal deeper issues.

• Be alert for gas leaks. If you smell gas or hear a hissing noise, evacuate immediately and contact your utility provider.

• Expect aftershocks. These smaller quakes can be powerful enough to cause additional damage.

For official guidance, review the American Red Cross Earthquake Safety Checklist.

2. Document Any Damage Right Away

Once everyone is safe and it’s secure to do so, begin documenting any property damage. This step is essential for both insurance and legal purposes.

• Take clear photos and videos of cracks, fallen items, or exterior damage.

• Save all receipts related to emergency repairs or temporary lodging.

• File a claim with your insurance company as soon as possible.

Note: Standard homeowners’ insurance often does not cover earthquake damage. Earthquake insurance is typically offered as a separate policy through the California Earthquake Authority (CEA).

3. Understand Your Legal Rights

If your home, rental property, or business has been damaged in a quake, or if you were injured, it’s important to know where the law stands.

For Renters:

California law requires landlords to provide habitable housing—even after a natural disaster. If your rental unit is no longer safe, your landlord must address it promptly or you may have the right to withhold rent or break your lease.

See the California Tenants’ Guide to Habitability for details.

For Homeowners:

You may have legal recourse if your property suffered damage due to a third party’s negligence—such as a poorly maintained neighboring structure collapsing into yours. Consulting with a real estate or personal injury attorney can clarify your options.

4. Access Local and Federal Recovery Resources

If a state of emergency is declared, both state and federal agencies may offer financial aid and disaster assistance.

Key Resources:

• Cal OES (California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services): Offers updates, shelter locations, and safety alerts.
  Visit: https://www.caloes.ca.gov

• FEMA Individual Assistance: Provides grants for temporary housing, medical needs, and repairs in federally declared disaster areas.
  Apply at: https://www.fema.gov/assistance/individual

• Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA): For those whose employment was affected by the quake.
  Learn more at: https://edd.ca.gov

5. Prepare for the Next One

Earthquakes are unpredictable—but you don’t have to be unprepared. Use this experience to build a more resilient safety plan for your family and home.

Essential Steps:

• Assemble an emergency kit. Include water, food, flashlight, battery-powered radio, first-aid supplies, and medications.

• Create a family communication plan. Decide where to meet and how to connect if separated.

• Secure heavy items. Anchor bookshelves, water heaters, and appliances to walls to prevent tipping.

• Sign up for earthquake alerts. California’s ShakeAlert® system sends real-time warnings to your phone.

Bottom Line: Be Prepared

Living in California means living with the reality of earthquakes—but it doesn’t have to mean living in fear. Knowing what to do in the moments and weeks after a quake can reduce harm, protect your rights, and put you on the path to recovery faster.

Bookmark this guide, share it with your community, and take steps today that your future self will thank you for tomorrow. Preparedness isn’t just smart—it’s lifesaving.