Home insurance in France was one of the many things I knew little about when I moved here more than a decade ago. Finding a place to live was only part of the adventure. I had to open bank accounts, arrange utilities, produce documents, and tackle a seemingly endless list of things I didn’t know I needed.
In France, insurance isn’t simply something you arrange after you’ve settled into your new home. Depending on whether you’re renting or buying, it can be legally required, and you may need proof of coverage before you can even collect the keys. And, like so many things in France, the rules aren’t necessarily the same as those we’re accustomed to in the United States.
That’s why I’ve teamed up with Agence Stoker AXA, which works with English-speaking clients navigating the French insurance system. I’ve asked Auguste Stoker to explain what newcomers need to know about insuring a home in France, whether it’s a rented apartment, a permanent residence, or a holiday property.
Here’s your guide to getting it right from the start.
Do you need home insurance in France?
Moving to France is exciting, but it can feel a little overwhelming. Finding your new home, often from abroad, means paperwork, documents, and guarantees you need to provide before you get the keys. Home insurance is one of them.
In many cases, yes:
- Tenants must insure the property they rent. The landlord or letting agency will ask for an insurance certificate (attestation d’assurance) before handing over the keys.
- Owners in an apartment building (copropriété) must have at least liability cover.
- Buyers with a mortgage will usually be asked by their bank to insure the property.
Even when it isn’t compulsory, it’s strongly recommended. A single fire or water leak can cost far more than years of premiums.
What does it cover?
Most French policies are standard packages called multirisque habitation. They usually cover:
- Fire and explosion
- Water damage
- Storms, hail and snow
- Theft and vandalism
- Broken glass
- Electrical damage
- Natural disasters
- Personal liability, for damage you or your family cause to others
A quick note on natural disasters: since January 2025, the CatNat surcharge, which funds compensation for natural disasters like floods, has gone up from 12% to 20% of the property part of home insurance premiums. The government sets the rate, so it’s the same for every insurer.
Tenants and owners: What’s the difference?
As a tenant, your policy covers your belongings and your liability towards the landlord. This matters: in France, a tenant is presumed responsible for a fire in the property unless they can prove otherwise.
As an owner, your policy covers the building for its full rebuild value and its contents. In most cases, you don’t need a valuation. The price is based on a simple description of the property: house or apartment, main or second home, number of rooms, location, outbuildings and special features.
For large or unusual properties, or for valuable contents such as art and jewelry, we put together tailored cover.
How we can help
Every move is different. You may be buying a home from abroad, renting your first apartment in Paris or Lyon, restoring a farmhouse, buying a château, or splitting your time between France and another country.
Whatever your situation, we:
- Explain your cover in English
- Arrange your insurance before you sign or move in
- Insure main homes, second homes and rental properties, from studios to estates
- Put you in touch with trusted local professionals, from tradespeople to property specialists
Get in touch
Buying or renting in France? Our team at Agence Stoker AXA is happy to help, from the first steps to the day you get the keys.
