After the Recent Earthquake in Thailand: Why Property Insurance Matters More Than Ever

The earthquake that shook parts of Thailand   in mid-2025   was a powerful reminder that natural disasters can strike at any time, without warning. While Thailand is not located on major seismic fault lines like Japan or Indonesia, the tremors felt by residents across the country were enough to cause concern — and in some cases, damage to buildings and household property.

This raises an important question: If such an event directly affected your home or condo,   would you be financially prepared to handle the costs?  

The Reality You Shouldn’t Overlook

• Many houses and condominiums in Thailand are not specifically designed to withstand significant seismic activity.
• Earthquake damage is not limited to “structural cracks.” It often includes:
  • Broken windows or glass panels
  • Damaged furniture and appliances
  • Loss of valuable personal belongings
• Repair and replacement costs can quickly escalate — ranging from tens of thousands to several million baht.

How Property Insurance Helps

A common misconception is that  home and condo insurance  only covers fire or theft. In fact, many policies can also extend to natural disasters, including earthquakes (depending on the insurer and policy terms).

Key benefits include:

1. Coverage for building structures – repair or reconstruction costs for homes or condos damaged by seismic activity.
2. Coverage for household contents – protection for furniture, electrical appliances, decorations, and personal belongings.
3. Additional living expenses – temporary accommodation costs if the property becomes uninhabitable.
4. Financial protection – reducing the burden of unexpected expenses during a crisis.

A Recent Example That Hits Close to Home

Following the earthquake earlier this year, families living near the epicenter rushed to inspect their homes, condos, and offices for structural cracks and damage. Those with property insurance could file claims for repairs with peace of mind, while those without coverage had to shoulder the entire financial burden themselves " sometimes amounting to hundreds of thousands of baht."

How to Choose the Right Property Insurance

• Confirm that the policy includes earthquake coverage (some insurers may offer this as an additional rider).
• Compare coverage limits for both structures and household contents.
• Review claim requirements, such as the need for reports from the Meteorological Department or certified engineers.
• Select insurers known for efficient and reliable claim services.

Conclusion

Earthquakes may not occur frequently in Thailand, but when they do, the impact can be devastating. Property insurance is not just a yearly expense, it is a financial safeguard that protects your family’s stability and peace of mind.

“Because disasters don’t announce themselves, preparing with the right insurance is the smartest investment you can make.”

✦ At PCK Insurance Broker, our team is ready to help you choose the most suitable home or condo insurance policy, providing the right protection for life’s unexpected events.