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If you're planning to rent a flat in France, whether short-term or long-term, one of the first things you’ll hear about is renter’s insurance, known locally as assurance habitation. For many expats, this might come as a surprise. In many countries, insurance is optional when renting. In France, however, it's not just recommended, it’s legally required.
So, do you need insurance to rent an apartment in France? The short answer is yes. And in this guide, we’ll explain why, what it covers, what to look for, and how to get it easily, even if you don’t speak fluent French.
Why Renter’s Insurance Is Mandatory in France
Under French law, all tenants are legally obliged to take out renter’s insurance when signing a rental contract for an unfurnished or furnished primary residence. This rule applies to:
👉 French citizens
👉 EU and non-EU nationals
👉 Long-term and short-term residents
👉 Students, workers, and retirees
The requirement is outlined in Article 7 of the French Law of 6 July 1989, which states that tenants must insure the property against “rental risks”.
That means you can’t finalise your lease (or sometimes even collect the keys) without providing proof of insurance, typically a document called an attestation d’assurance habitation.
What Does Renter’s Insurance Cover in France?
The minimum legal requirement is insurance for risques locatifs (rental risks), which protects against damage you might cause to the property as a tenant. This includes:
✅ Fire
If a fire breaks out in your rented apartment, whether from a kitchen mishap, faulty wiring, or a candle, you’re financially responsible. Rental risk insurance covers the resulting damage to the landlord’s property.
✅ Water Damage
Leaks, flooding, or burst pipes are among the most common causes of insurance claims in France. Whether it’s your fault or just bad luck, you’re expected to be insured for it.
✅ Explosions (e.g., gas)
Accidental explosions (e.g. from a faulty gas boiler) can cause massive damage. The insurance will cover repairs and protect you from being personally liable.
These three categories, fire, water, explosion, are the bare minimum. However, most tenants opt for multi-risk policies (assurance multirisques habitation) that offer far broader protection.
What Else Can Be Covered?
A comprehensive renter’s insurance policy in France often includes:
Personal belongings
Your furniture, electronics, and valuables can be covered for theft, damage, or destruction from incidents like fire or flooding.
Civil liability (responsabilité civile)
If you accidentally cause damage to someone else’s property (e.g. your leaky washing machine ruins the floor below), civil liability insurance covers those costs.
Theft and burglary
Some policies include protection in case of break-ins or theft, although you may need to meet certain security conditions (e.g. quality locks, shutters).
Legal assistance
Many insurers offer legal protection services in case you face disputes with your landlord, neighbours, or third parties.
What Happens If You Don’t Have Insurance?
If you fail to provide proof of renter’s insurance, your landlord has the legal right to:
👉 Refuse to hand over the keys at the start of your tenancy
👉 Cancel your lease later if you do not provide annual proof of renewal
👉 Take out insurance on your behalf, then charge you for it, often at a higher premium than if you’d bought it yourself
It’s also important to note that not having insurance leaves you personally liable for any damage to the property, which can quickly become financially disastrous.
How Much Does Renter’s Insurance Cost in France?
Renter’s insurance in France is very affordable compared to many other countries. Prices vary based on:
👉 The size of the property
👉 Location (Paris and major cities may cost more)
👉 Whether it's furnished or unfurnished
👉 Your coverage level (basic vs. comprehensive)
Typical cost:
👉 Studio or one-bedroom flat: 5 € to 15 €/month
👉 Larger flats: 15 € to 30 € /month
Most policies are annual, but many insurers offer monthly payments with no extra fee.
When to Get Renter’s Insurance
As soon as possible, ideally before your lease begins.
Most landlords will request an attestation d’assurance habitation before handing over the keys. You’ll also be expected to renew this every year and provide updated proof.
If you're moving into shared housing (colocation), each tenant may need their own policy, or the group can be covered by a joint one, check the lease for details.
Final Thoughts: Yes, You Need It!
So, do you need insurance to rent an apartment in France? Yes, absolutely. It’s not just a smart move, it’s a legal requirement. But fortunately, it’s affordable, easy to set up, essential for your financial protection.
Whether you’re renting for six months or planning to stay for years, having the right renter’s insurance gives you peace of mind and keeps you compliant with French law.
At FAB French Insurance, we make the process stress-free and straightforward. No jargon, no hassle, just reliable protection for your French home. 👉 Ready to get covered? Request your home insurance quote here.
