It is compulsory in French law for property-owners to insure their homes of third party liability (Responsabi/ite Civile Proprietaire). This should be done as soon as the purchaser has completed the acte de vente; it is obviously essential when renovation work starts. Although it is not compulsory by law to insure against other risks like fire, theft, water and other damage, it is probably advisable that property owners do so. In some cases the new owner can carry on the previous owner's insurance. This in any case is liable to happen by default as in France policies tend to be renewed automatically unless they are formally cancelled. You will however need to register the policy in your own name.

There are various types of property insurance in France and your estate agent can advise and arrange a policy for you. Insurance premiums in France are higher at 9% than Britain's 4%. Alternatively you can use brokers in your own country who provide policies for property owned overseas. - Intasure - are one such. Some British brokers have become established over a number of years as insurers for second homes abroad and offer buildings and contents insurance that complies with EU regulations. The usual French system of insurance is to calculate the premium on the square meterage of buildings. British insurers can arrange a type of deal based on the value of the building and contents, which is the norm in Britain. Their policies are issued in English with premiums and claims payable in sterling. There is a French translation and schedules are issued in English and French, which saves the expense of having a translation made.

If you are keeping a residence in your country of origin, some brokers will extend the household insurance to cover home and contents abroad. Main Points about Household Insurance in France Household insurance in France automatically covers both buildings and contents unlike in the UK where both covers can be taken out separately. The terms below include both basic and optional cover. Check with your insurer, which are optional.

For UK Home Insurance quotes, look no further than Barclays or Zurich