Home Insurance in France: A Complete Guide for Property Owners and Tenants
Home insurance, known as "assurance habitation" in French, is a vital component of homeownership and tenancy in France. Whether you’re a local resident, an expatriate, or an investor with property in the country, having a solid understanding of how home insurance works in France is essential.
From legal obligations to coverage types, costs, and claims processes, this article offers a comprehensive overview of home insurance in France. It is designed to help both property owners and tenants make informed decisions, protect their assets, and comply with local regulations.
1. What Is Home Insurance in France?
Home insurance in France is a financial protection policy that covers property and personal belongings against risks such as fire, theft, water damage, natural disasters, and third-party liability. Depending on the level of coverage, it can also cover temporary accommodation, legal expenses, and reconstruction costs.
Home insurance typically includes two components:
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Property insurance (dommages aux biens): Covers damage to the building and its contents.
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Liability insurance (responsabilité civile): Covers you if someone is injured or suffers property damage due to an incident originating from your home.
2. Is Home Insurance Mandatory in France?
Yes, in many cases, home insurance is mandatory in France—especially for tenants.
Tenants:
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Required by law to have at least a basic policy covering "risques locatifs" (rental risks), including fire, water damage, and explosion.
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Landlords can legally request proof of insurance before handing over the keys.
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If a tenant fails to provide proof, the landlord has the right to purchase insurance on their behalf and charge the cost to the tenant.
Homeowners:
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For primary residences, home insurance is not legally mandatory, but it is strongly recommended.
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For condominium properties (copropriétés), co-owners must have at least liability insurance.
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Mortgage lenders often require homeowners to insure the property before granting a loan.
3. Types of Home Insurance Policies in France
There are two primary types of home insurance:
a. Basic Cover (Assurance Risques Locatifs):
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Covers rental risks such as fire, water damage, and explosion.
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Legally required for tenants.
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Limited in scope and does not cover personal belongings or liability beyond rental damages.
b. Multi-Risk Home Insurance (Assurance Multirisque Habitation - MRH):
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The most common and comprehensive form of home insurance.
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Covers the building, personal contents, and liability.
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Includes protection against:
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Fire
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Water damage
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Theft and vandalism
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Glass breakage
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Natural disasters (as declared by the government)
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Storms and hail
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Electrical damage
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Personal injury and legal liability
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4. What Does a Standard MRH Policy Cover?
A Multi-Risk Home Insurance policy typically includes:
1. Property Damage:
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Structural damage to the home
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Damage to fixtures and fittings
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Coverage for personal belongings
2. Liability (Responsabilité Civile):
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Injury to third parties on your property
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Damage caused to neighbors (e.g., leaking water causing damage below)
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Legal defense and claims compensation
3. Theft and Burglary:
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Coverage for stolen items
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Damage to doors, locks, or windows during a break-in
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May require certain security measures to be in place
4. Natural Disasters (Catastrophes Naturelles):
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Covered when officially declared by the French government
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Includes floods, earthquakes, landslides, etc.
5. Accommodation and Relocation Costs:
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Temporary housing costs if your home becomes uninhabitable
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Transport or relocation expenses in emergencies
5. Optional Add-ons and Extended Coverage
Many insurers offer optional coverages, such as:
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Accidental damage insurance
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Jewelry, art, or valuable item coverage
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Swimming pool or garden furniture insurance
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Home assistance services (plumbing, locksmiths)
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Legal protection and dispute resolution
Policyholders can tailor their plan based on property type, location, and personal needs.
6. Home Insurance for Different Property Types
Primary Residence:
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Typically insured under a comprehensive MRH policy.
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Premiums depend on location, property value, size, and security features.
Second Homes or Holiday Homes:
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Require separate insurance policies.
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Often face different risks like long periods of vacancy.
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May require specific clauses for theft and damage while unoccupied.
Rental Properties:
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Owners can take out a non-occupant homeowner policy (PNO – Propriétaire Non Occupant).
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Covers landlord liability and damage if the property is rented or vacant.
Furnished Rentals or Seasonal Rentals:
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Require tailored insurance to protect both property and tenants.
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May include coverage for short-term stays, Airbnb-style lets, and high guest turnover.
7. How Much Does Home Insurance Cost in France?
Home insurance costs vary depending on several factors:
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Location: Urban areas or regions with high crime or natural risk may be more expensive.
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Type of property: Apartments usually cost less to insure than detached houses.
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Size and value: Larger homes with higher contents value have higher premiums.
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Security features: Alarms, secure doors, and window locks can lower costs.
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Claims history: A history of multiple claims may increase your premium.
Average Cost:
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Apartments: €100–€250 per year (basic MRH policy)
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Detached houses: €200–€500+ per year
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Luxury homes or high-value properties: €600 and above
8. Home Insurance for Foreigners and Expats
France is a popular destination for expats, retirees, and property investors. Fortunately, home insurance is accessible to foreigners. Most insurers:
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Accept foreign bank accounts and addresses.
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Offer bilingual services and contracts.
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Allow online application and digital documentation.
Tips for expats:
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Choose insurers experienced with international clients.
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Ensure you declare all relevant facts, such as part-time residence.
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Check that your contents are covered even when you’re not present in the home for extended periods.
9. How to Purchase Home Insurance in France
The process of obtaining insurance is straightforward:
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Compare quotes from several providers.
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Choose your coverage level (basic vs. comprehensive).
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Provide property details—location, size, use, and security features.
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Submit personal details, including proof of identity and ownership.
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Receive and sign the contract (in-person or electronically).
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Receive the attestation d'assurance, which serves as proof of coverage.
Popular French insurance companies include Groupama, MAIF, AXA, MAAF, Allianz, Macif, and Crédit Agricole Assurances.
10. How to File a Home Insurance Claim
In the event of a covered incident:
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Notify your insurer immediately, typically within 5 working days.
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For theft or vandalism, file a police report within 48 hours.
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Document the damage with photos and detailed descriptions.
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Provide receipts or valuations for stolen or damaged items.
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Meet with an expert or adjuster sent by your insurer if needed.
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Wait for the insurer’s decision and compensation, which can take a few days to several weeks depending on the claim’s complexity.
11. Cancelling or Changing Your Policy
French insurance contracts typically run for one year and auto-renew. However:
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You can cancel your policy after the first year with one month's notice (under the Hamon Law).
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You can switch providers easily by notifying your current insurer or having the new insurer handle the transition.
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You must notify insurers of any changes in property use, renovations, or risk levels.
12. Conclusion
Home insurance in France is more than just a requirement—it is a vital tool for protecting your home, your possessions, and your financial wellbeing. Whether you’re a tenant, homeowner, landlord, or seasonal resident, understanding the ins and outs of French home insurance allows you to confidently secure coverage that suits your lifestyle and legal obligations.
By comparing policies, evaluating your needs, and staying informed about your rights, you can ensure that your home in France is well-protected against life’s many uncertainties.