Home insurance in France

France is one of the few countries where home insurance is legally mandatory for tenants: your landlord will demand an attestation before handing over the keys, and every year thereafter. The standard product, « multirisque habitation » (MRH), bundles fire, water damage, theft, personal liability (responsabilité civile) and more — typically €8-30/month for a flat.

Two French particularities: personal liability included in the MRH covers your whole household (children, pets) for damage caused to others, well beyond the home itself ; and water damage claims between flats follow an inter-insurer convention (IRSI) — your own insurer handles your claim even when the leak came from upstairs. Owners are only legally required to hold liability cover in co-owned buildings, but going uninsured on a house you own would be reckless.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need French home insurance for a furnished rental or student room?

Yes — the tenant obligation applies to any rental that is your residence, including furnished flats and student rooms (CROUS included). Basic policies for studios start under €5/month. Airbnb-style short stays are the host’s problem, not yours.

What document will my landlord ask for?

An « attestation d’assurance habitation » naming you and the address, downloadable from your insurer’s app the minute you subscribe. No attestation, no keys — and the landlord may later insure on your behalf and bill you a surcharge.

Related guides: Home insurance in France: tenant duty, owner wisdom. Full details (profiles, breed pages, comparisons) on the French page.