Different types of home insurance
L’Home Insurance civil liability is responsible for covering damage caused to others, such as water damage affecting your neighbours. However, it does not protect your own assets. Mandatory for tenants, it is also called “rental risks”. For its part, multi-risk home insurance offers more extensive protection. In addition to civil liability, it covers your personal property against claims such as water damage or fire.
Optional guarantees to consider
Additional guarantees can be added to your contract to reinforce your protection. For example, Life Accident Benefits (GAV) covers damages, even if you are responsible for them. Other guarantees relate to natural disasters, precious objects or household appliances.
Deductibles and guarantee limits
The deductible represents the sum payable by you in the event of a claim. Insurance contracts generally provide for deductibles, which vary according to the guarantees and the companies. The guarantee limits indicate the maximum amount of compensation. Be sure to opt for sums corresponding to the value of your property.
Home insurance certificate
The insurance certificate is a document provided by your insurer, proving that you have taken out home insurance. It mentions the address of the accommodation and summarizes the guarantees included in the contract. This document can be used as proof of address.
Obligations of the tenant and the owner
As a tenant, you must take out home insurance and provide a copy of the certificate to your landlord when you move in. The owner can request the certificate once a year to ensure that you are still covered. If the tenant does not present the insurance certificate, the landlord can terminate the lease. He must then request a bailiff.
Claims covered by home insurance
The risks covered depend on the contract taken out. Liability insurance only protects the property of third parties, while comprehensive insurance also covers your personal property. Here are two examples of claims covered by multi-risk insurance:
- Water damage: this guarantee is essential for tenants. In the event of a claim, complete a report and send it to the insurance company within 5 days. Please note that some water damage is not covered.
- Fires and explosions: these risks must be covered by your fire insurance if you are a tenant. In case of fire or explosion, contact the insurance within 5 days of the event. Expertise is mandatory.
Termination of home insurance
Home insurance contracts are generally concluded for one year, with tacit renewal. Since the Hamon Law, it is possible to terminate your insurance at any time after one year of commitment. And if you change insurer, the new one takes care of the administrative procedures for you.
