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First published in May 2020
Updated in July 2025
Thinking of securing home insurance in France? Whether you’re moving into a countryside cottage or settling into a modern city apartment, understanding how French home insurance works is crucial. Here are seven essential facts to help you navigate the market confidently and get the right coverage for your needs.
Once you're ready, you can easily get a home insurance quote here through Fab French Insurance.
1. Not All “Rooms” Are Counted Equally
When filling out a home insurance application in France, you’ll need to declare how many “rooms” your home has, but what counts as a room? In French insurance terms, a room is any enclosed, insulated, and heated space over 7m² that is also furnished. This excludes kitchens, bathrooms, and utility rooms. Garages and cellars may also be counted differently, depending on their setup. Make sure you declare rooms accurately to avoid issues with your policy.
2. Security Systems Can Lower Premiums
Have a connected alarm or smart home security system? Good news: many insurers in France offer premium reductions or better terms to clients who have upgraded home security. This shows that your property is at a lower risk of burglary or damage, which helps reduce your insurer’s potential liability.
3. High-Value Items Must Be Declared Separately
In French home insurance, “valuables” refer to items such as:
➡️ Jewellery
➡️ Artworks and paintings
➡️ Collectibles (stamps, rare coins, etc.)
➡️ Precious metals and stones
➡️ Rare books
➡️ Any item worth over 2,000 €
If you own valuable items, you must declare them explicitly. If these valuables make up a significant portion of your home’s contents, your insurer might require additional security measures.
4. Is Your Home Isolated? It Could Cost More
Distance matters. If your home is located more than 500 metres from your nearest neighbour, insurers may consider it a higher risk. This could result in increased premiums due to the higher likelihood of unnoticed damage (e.g., fire, flooding, or break-ins). When comparing policies, be sure to mention this if applicable so you receive accurate quotes.
5. Electrical Damage Cover Isn’t Always Included
Electrical damage caused by power surges, outages, or lightning strikes is a common concern, especially in rural areas. However, don’t assume this is part of your standard home insurance policy. Most French policies require you to add this as an optional extra. If you have expensive appliances or live in an area prone to storms, it’s well worth including.
6. Doors Matter: 3-Point Locks Are Key
If your declared valuables make up more than 30% of your total contents coverage, many insurers will reduce your reimbursement unless your doors are fitted with a 3-point lock system. This is a standard security measure in France and acts as a basic requirement for theft coverage in higher-value homes.
7. Where You Live Affects Your Premium
Location, location, location. The area where your home is situated has a direct impact on your home insurance premium. For instance:
➡️ Properties in south-eastern France (e.g., the Riviera) may face higher premiums due to increased storm and wind risk.
➡️ Homes in the Dordogne or Nouvelle-Aquitaine are often cheaper to insure, thanks to their moderate climate and lower crime rates.
Even within the same region, rates can vary depending on proximity to risk zones (like floodplains or wildfire areas). This is why it’s so important to get personalised advice when choosing a policy.
To Wrap it All Up
Understanding the ins and outs of home insurance in France can save you money and ensure your property is fully protected. From knowing how rooms are counted to understanding location-based risks and electrical coverage, these small details make a big difference.
Not sure where to begin? Get a tailored quote with Fab French Insurance, our English-speaking experts make the process smooth and transparent. We’ll help you compare options and find the most suitable policy based on your home, lifestyle, and location.
Related guides for life in France:
Insuring your home is only one part of settling in France. If you also own or plan to register a vehicle, understanding how french motor insurance works is essential to stay compliant and protected.
