How percentage deductibles work
A percentage deductible is calculated from your coverage limit, not the size of the loss. A 10% earthquake deductible on a $420,000 dwelling limit is $42,000. On a $58,000 loss, the policy would pay $16,000. Figures here are illustrative.
Why it matters for appraisal
When the deductible is high, the difference between estimates decides whether any payment is owed. A carrier estimate just under the deductible means no payment. An accurate estimate that exceeds it can change the outcome entirely, which is why earthquake disputes are often worth reviewing closely.
Check your declarations page
Your declarations page or endorsement shows the deductible type, the percentage and what it is calculated from. Some earthquake endorsements apply separate deductibles to dwelling and contents.
Questions about this tool
Does the percentage apply to the loss or the limit?
Usually the limit, such as Coverage A. Read your endorsement to confirm.
Can there be more than one deductible?
Depending on the policy, separate deductibles may apply to different coverages or to separate events.