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:
- What home insurance covers
- Why it’s important in the Netherlands
- How to choose the right policy
- Typical costs
- What to do after you move in
- Useful tips for expats
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:
- Fire
- Theft or attempted theft
- Water damage (e.g., burst pipe)
- Smoke damage
- Vandalism
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:
- Flooding your neighbour’s downstairs apartment
- Breaking someone else’s window
- Damaging public property
Some insurers include tenant liability automatically; others require it as an add-on.
What Isn’t Covered
Home insurance typically doesn’t cover:
- Damage from wear and tear
- Intentional damage
- Damage caused by pests
- Damage outside of your insured home
- Valuable items above a set limit (often jewellery or collectibles)
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:
- The value of your belongings
- Where you live (larger cities can be more expensive)
- The level of coverage you choose
- Whether you add liability or extra protection
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:
- ONVZ
- Univé
- Centraal Beheer
- Interpolis
- Aegon
- National insurers with expat services
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:
- Report the incident
- Contact the police for theft or vandalism
- Document what happened with photos or videos
- Notify your insurer immediately
Most insurers have phone and online reporting systems. - Submit your claim details
Include receipts, photos, and a description of the event. - Follow up
Check claim status regularly and answer any questions from your insurer.
Good documentation makes the process much smoother.
Expat Tips for Home Insurance in the Netherlands
- Get English support if Dutch isn’t your first language
Some providers offer customer service in English — a big help when dealing with claims or contracts. - Update your coverage after big purchases
If you buy expensive electronics, bicycles, or sports gear, let your insurer know. - Check tenant requirements
Dutch landlords often list insurance requirements in your lease. Be sure to comply. - Bundle policies
Many insurers offer discounts if you combine home, liability, or even travel insurance.
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
- Independer — Dutch insurance comparison site
- Pricewise — Insurance comparison and reviews
- Your local gemeente — Information on registration and requirements
- Dutch consumer protection sites — Tips on claims and disputes