Coverage for earthquake risk plentiful, but sublimits apply for different zones.(News)

Byline: Kristin Gunderson Hunt

While Midwest cities are still struggling to get their buildings earthquake-ready, acquiring commercial insurance to protect against loss in the event of a temblor is less of a challenge, brokers say.

Richard Forand, senior vp for Willis Group Holdings Ltd., and lead on the company's property team in Chicago, said an abundant supply of New Madrid earthquake capacity exists, and the recent earthquake has not influenced availability.

"It's a reminder of the risk, but it has not restricted coverage for our clients as of yet,'' Mr. Forand said.

Earthquake coverage typically is embedded in a standard property …