Which construction type is susceptible to earth movement damage, leading to higher earthquake insurance premiums?

Which construction type is susceptible to earth movement damage, leading to higher earthquake insurance premiums?

• A. Frame
• B. Masonry
• C. Masonry veneer
• D. Noncombustible

Answer: (B)

Masonry construction is especially vulnerable to seismic forces because solid masonry walls are rigid and brittle. When the ground shakes, these walls can crack, shear, or even collapse since they lack the ductility to bend and absorb energy. That potential for substantial structural damage means higher expected losses for the insurer, which translates into higher earthquake premiums for properties built with masonry. Frame construction (wood or steel) tends to perform better under earthquakes due to its flexibility and ability to dissipate energy, while masonry veneer is primarily an exterior finish attached to a frame and does not carry the structural load, so its influence on premium is less than solid masonry. Noncombustible structures can also perform well if properly designed, but the biggest risk factor among the options is the rigid, brittle nature of masonry.

Masonry construction is especially vulnerable to seismic forces because solid masonry walls are rigid and brittle. When the ground shakes, these walls can crack, shear, or even collapse since they lack the ductility to bend and absorb energy. That potential for substantial structural damage means higher expected losses for the insurer, which translates into higher earthquake premiums for properties built with masonry.

Frame construction (wood or steel) tends to perform better under earthquakes due to its flexibility and ability to dissipate energy, while masonry veneer is primarily an exterior finish attached to a frame and does not carry the structural load, so its influence on premium is less than solid masonry. Noncombustible structures can also perform well if properly designed, but the biggest risk factor among the options is the rigid, brittle nature of masonry.