Home Insurance in the Netherlands: What Expats Need to Know
Moving to the Netherlands means adjusting to many new systems — including how home insurance works. Whether you’re renting, buying, or moving into a shared space, understanding Dutch home insurance helps protect your belongings and your financial wellbeing. This guide explains: Why You Need Home Insurance in the Netherlands In the Netherlands, home insurance (inboedelverzekering) isn’t legally required — but it is strongly recommended. Without it, you’re fully responsible for replacing stolen items, repairing damage, or covering costs after accidents like fires, floods, or burglary. Many landlords and rental contracts also require tenants to have home insurance before you move in. Types of Home Insurance Dutch home insurance generally comes in two main parts: 1. Contents Insurance (Inboedelverzekering) This covers your personal belongings — furniture, electronics, clothing, kitchenware — if they’re damaged or stolen. Typical events covered: It does not cover the building structure itself — only your possessions. 2. Liability Insurance for Tenants (Aansprakelijkheidsverzekering voor Particulieren, AVP) This covers you if you accidentally damage someone else’s property — for example: Some insurers include tenant liability automatically; others require it as an add-on. What Isn’t Covered Home insurance typically doesn’t cover: For high-value items, many insurers offer optional riders or higher coverage limits. How Much Does Home Insurance Cost? Home insurance premiums in the Netherlands are usually quite reasonable. The price depends on: A basic contents policy might cost between €120–€250 per year, while a more comprehensive plan with liability and higher limits could be higher. Many insurers allow you to choose a policy with a higher deductible (eigen risico) to reduce your monthly premium. Choosing the Right Home Insurance Policy When comparing Dutch insurers, consider the following: ✔ Coverage limits — Are your valuables covered at a realistic amount?✔ Liability inclusion — Does it include tenant liability, or do you need to add it?✔ Brand reputation — Are there English-friendly customer service options?✔ Claims process — Online claims, app support, 24/7 help?✔ Exclusions — Read fine print to avoid surprises Popular Dutch and expat-friendly insurers include: Comparison tools like Independer.nl or Pricewise.nl help you explore plans and prices quickly. When You Need Home Insurance Most You should have insurance in place: ✔ Before you sign a rental contract (many landlords require proof)✔ When you move into your new home✔ If you bring valuable electronics, furniture, or personal items Even if your landlord has building insurance, this doesn’t protect your own things. Filing a Claim If something happens — a burglary, water leak, or fire — these steps help: Good documentation makes the process much smoother. Expat Tips for Home Insurance in the Netherlands Quick Summary Topic Key Points Is home insurance required? Not by law, but often required by landlords and highly recommended What’s covered? Personal belongings, theft, fire, water damage Add-ons to consider Liability insurance, extra coverage for valuables Typical cost €120–€250+ per year depending on coverage Best practice Compare plans, check exclusions, choose English-friendly support Useful Resources