Home Insurance in France: A Complete Guide for Residents and Property Owners
France is well-known for its rich culture, picturesque landscapes, and world-class living standards. For those living or owning property in the country, one essential responsibility is securing appropriate home insurance. Whether you’re a tenant, homeowner, landlord, or holiday property investor, home insurance in France (Assurance Habitation) plays a crucial role in protecting both your property and personal liability.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of how home insurance works in France, what it typically covers, legal obligations, cost factors, and how to choose the best policy.
1. What Is Home Insurance in France?
Assurance Habitation, or home insurance in France, is a type of insurance that covers damage to a residential property and its contents. It also provides personal liability coverage, which protects the insured in the event that they cause damage to third parties or other properties.
Home insurance is not just for homeowners—tenants are legally required to have insurance in France as well. Whether you live in the property or rent it out, securing home insurance is essential for financial protection against unforeseen events like fire, water damage, natural disasters, or theft.
2. Is Home Insurance Mandatory in France?
Yes, in most cases:
For Tenants
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Home insurance is mandatory by law for tenants renting unfurnished or furnished properties.
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It must at least cover "risques locatifs" (tenant’s liability for damage caused to the rented property by fire, water, or explosion).
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Landlords may require proof of insurance before handing over the keys.
For Homeowners
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Not legally required for owner-occupiers, but highly recommended.
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Required by mortgage lenders: If the property is financed by a loan, banks will typically demand full home insurance coverage.
For Landlords
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Not mandatory, but advisable.
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Special landlord insurance (“assurance propriétaire non-occupant” or PNO) can protect against tenant-caused damage, unpaid rent, and property liability.
3. What Does Home Insurance Cover in France?
Home insurance policies in France typically include the following types of coverage:
A. Property Damage (Dommages aux biens)
This covers damage to the home and its contents caused by:
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Fire and smoke
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Water damage (leaks, floods, burst pipes)
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Natural disasters (storms, hail, snow, earthquakes)
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Theft and vandalism
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Glass breakage (windows, mirrors, skylights)
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Explosions or implosions
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Electrical damage (e.g., short circuits, lightning strikes)
B. Personal Liability (Responsabilité Civile)
Covers bodily injury or property damage caused by the insured, members of their household, or pets. Examples include:
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A visitor slipping and falling inside your home
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A fire that spreads to a neighbor’s property
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A child damaging someone else’s property
This coverage is often included by default in most French home insurance policies.
C. Third-Party Liability as a Tenant (Risques Locatifs)
For tenants, this covers damage to the rented property or building due to their actions, often mandatory for rental agreements.
D. Additional Living Expenses (Relogement)
If your home becomes uninhabitable after a disaster, some policies will pay for:
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Temporary accommodation
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Hotel bills
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Transportation and basic living costs
E. Theft and Burglary (Vol)
Covers stolen items and damage caused during a break-in. This usually requires evidence of forced entry and proper security systems (locks, alarms).
4. Optional Coverages and Add-ons
French insurers offer a variety of optional add-ons that you can include in your policy:
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Legal protection (Protection Juridique): Covers legal costs and representation.
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Swimming pool coverage: For pool-related damages or liability.
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Garden and outdoor structures: Greenhouses, sheds, or fences.
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High-value item coverage: For jewelry, antiques, artwork.
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Home business or teleworking coverage: If you operate a business from home.
Always review policy documents carefully to understand what is covered and excluded.
5. Home Insurance Types by Occupancy
A. Owner-Occupiers (Propriétaire Occupant)
Homeowners who live in their property usually require full coverage for:
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The structure
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Contents
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Personal liability
It is highly advisable even though not legally required.
B. Landlords (Propriétaire Non-Occupant)
Landlord insurance protects rental properties against risks that standard tenant insurance may not cover. It often includes:
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Loss of rent
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Damage caused by tenants
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Legal disputes
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Vacant property coverage
C. Tenants (Locataires)
Tenants are required to get insurance for:
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Property liability
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Damage to the rented unit
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Personal contents
Some landlords may offer group policies, but individual tenant coverage is the standard.
6. Cost of Home Insurance in France
Home insurance premiums in France depend on several key factors:
Property-Related Factors
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Location: Properties in flood-prone or high-crime areas cost more to insure.
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Size and type of dwelling (apartment vs. house)
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Construction materials and building age
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Security features like alarms, cameras, and reinforced doors
Policy-Related Factors
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Coverage limits and optional add-ons
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Deductibles (franchise): The higher the deductible, the lower the premium
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Insurer’s pricing model and reputation
Average Cost
On average:
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For apartments: €100–€250 per year
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For houses: €250–€500 per year
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Luxury homes or furnished holiday properties may exceed €1,000 annually
7. Filing a Claim in France
In case of damage or loss, here are the steps to follow:
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Notify your insurer immediately (within 5 days for general claims, 2 days for theft).
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Submit a claim with supporting documents: photos, police reports (for theft), estimates, invoices.
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An adjuster (expert) may be sent by the insurer to assess damage.
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Compensation is issued based on your policy (actual value or replacement value).
Speed, accuracy, and documentation are critical to ensuring a smooth claims process.
8. Comparing and Choosing the Right Policy
When selecting a home insurance policy in France, consider:
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Coverage scope: Basic or comprehensive?
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Exclusions and limitations
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Deductibles: How much are you willing to pay out of pocket?
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Reputation and customer service of the insurer
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Online management and multilingual support if you are an expat
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Bundled discounts: Some insurers offer discounts if you bundle auto and home insurance
Always read the conditions générales (terms and conditions) carefully.
9. Home Insurance for Expats and Non-Residents
Foreigners owning property in France (as a second home or investment) are encouraged to get non-resident home insurance. These policies:
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Cover vacant periods
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Protect against vandalism or burst pipes in winter
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Include liability and fire coverage
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May offer English-language customer service
It’s important to choose an insurer familiar with expat needs and the legal obligations of French property ownership.
10. Legal Obligations and Insurance Laws
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Tenants who fail to get insurance can have their lease terminated.
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Landlords can purchase insurance on behalf of the tenant and pass the cost on.
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Home insurance policies are renewed automatically each year, but the Hammon Law allows policyholders to cancel after one year with just one month’s notice.
Conclusion
Home insurance in France is a key component of responsible property ownership or tenancy. While the legal obligations vary depending on your role—owner, tenant, or landlord—the need for protection remains universal. A comprehensive policy not only shields your property from physical risks like fire or theft but also safeguards your financial and legal interests.
Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a foreign property owner, understanding the structure, requirements, and options of home insurance in France allows you to make informed decisions and protect what matters most.