tremblement de terre
Last update 10/08/2026Reading time : 3min

What do I do after an earthquake?

Whether your home has been damaged or not, there are a few precautions you should take after an earthquake, as some damage may not be visible straight away. We’ve put together a step-by-step guide of what you need to know.

Author: AXA LuxembourgCreation date : 05/11/2024

What you need to remember at a glance

Watch out for aftershocksAftershocks often take place in the hours or days following the first shock
Can I return to my home?If you have been evacuated, only return to your home after having received permission from the authorities. Avoid lifts
Don’t forgetDraw up a list of the damage and take as many photos as possible before cleaning anything up
Got an emergency?Contact AXA Assistance on +352 45 30 55
How to make a claimContact your agent or send a “bad weather” claim to meteo@axa.lu

Step 1: Things to do after an earthquake strikes
 

  1. Check the situation and whether any instructions are in place: your local council or the State may have imposed measures that must be observed.
  2. Stay vigilant: aftershocks often take place in the hours or days following the first tremor.
  3. If you have been evacuated, only return to your home after having received permission from the authorities.
  4. Do not take the lift.
  5. Check the potential causes of damage or serious injury. In the event of a gas, water or electricity leak, cut the power supply, alert the authorities and leave your home. Clean up any spilled cleaning products, as some may be highly flammable. Remain alert for signs of incipient fires, which often occur after earthquakes.
  6. Do not light candles, briquettes or matches, and do not smoke.
  7. Do not go near electrical cables that have fallen to the ground, nor damaged gas lines.
  8. Open cupboards carefully: objects stored inside may have been moved.
  9. If you need to move your car, check the condition of the roads and keep an eye on traffic lights, which may be damaged.
  10. Draw up a list of the damage and take as many photos as possible before cleaning anything up.
     

Step 2: Who to contact if you spot any damage
 

  • Contact AXA Assistance on +352 45 30 55 in the event of an emergency.
  • To make your claim, contact your agent or send a “bad weather” claim to meteo@axa.lu. Depending on the amount of damage, the claims assessor will tell you which professionals to contact for the repairs.
  • Contact your local council to find out what measures have been put in place for those affected.
     

Step 3: Am I properly insured against an earthquake?
 

If you are an AXA customer, please refer to your policy or contact your advisor to check the extent of your cover against damage from an earthquake.
 

You are covered in the event of an earthquake if you have added the Sérénité Max option to your OptiHome home insurance. If your home is no longer habitable, AXA will bear the costs for alternative accommodation.
 

You’re also covered if you have OptiDrive car insurance on an Active + Mini Casco or Privilège plan, as AXA will lend you a replacement vehicle for the duration of the repairs. 

 

This information is provided for information purposes only. Always check the general terms and conditions of your policy.

Frequently asked questions

  • Yes. Some damage is not visible straight away, and aftershocks may occur in the following hours or days.

  • Take as many photos as possible and draw up a list of the damage first. These elements will make processing your claim and compensation easier.

  • Switch off the power if you haven’t already done so, alert the authorities and leave your home immediately. Do not light candles, briquettes or matches.

Contact AXA Assistance