Re: Who pays for the damage when a tidal wave hits?

Cassie,

After a natural disaster, such as a tornado, hurricane, earthquake, or tidal wave (tsunami), the cost of repairing the damage becomes the responsibility of the property owner. It is up to the property owner to make sure he or she has adequate insurance, or other means, to cover the cost of repair or replacement.

Obviously, coastal locations are at a higher risk for damage from hurricanes and tsunamis, and therefore, those who own property in the higher-risk areas would be wise (and in some instances, are required by law) to carry insurance.

In some cases, where damage is extreme, even some insurance companies can't afford to pay. In those cases, the Federal Government may chip in to help them out.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency, FEMA, will also offer assistance to state and local governments and certain private non-profit organizations to rebuild.

Countries other than the United States may have other ways of handling the aftermath of these disasters.