Does insurance cover landslides? Probably not

The Northwest Insurance Council is reminding business owners (and homeowners, for that matter) that landslides aren't covered on standard insurance plans. In fact, most plans specifically exclude damage caused by earth movement such as landslide and earthquake.

Turns out, you usually have to buy another plan for that.

“Property owners in high-risk areas need special coverage that is not included in a standard home or business policy," said NW Insurance Council President Karl Newman. "Coverage is available through specialty carriers at an additional cost.”

A "Difference in Conditions" policy covers landslides and mudflow, according to a statement from the council.

And if landslides lead to flooding? That's excluded from standard home and business insurance, too. The National Flood Insurance Program is a good place to start if you're looking into coverage.

The NW Insurance Council just put out this tip sheet on protecting property from landslides and flooding.