House insurance for French properties

FrenchPropertySearch.com works closely with 2 reliable insurance companies that can provide you with the necessary cover. Both are based and underwritten by leading underwriters (Norwich Union and Lloyds of London). Between them they cover both holiday homes and permanent residences, contents and title insurance, and are both authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

So, if you’re not competent or confident enough to trot down to your local insurance agent in France, or would prefer dealing with English registered and speaking agent, then check out the two companies listed below.

French property insurance with Intasure

Intasure has years of experience in the insurance industry and an enviable track record in creating pioneering new products to meet the needs of specialist markets. We are building a significant international brand by offering a range of innovative insurance products and services that combine locally-tailored cover with the highest standards of UK knowledge and support.

Intasure's insurance products combine flexibility with comprehensive cover and the reassurance of being underwritten by companies with proven track records such as Norwich Union.

Innovation

We provide cover whether a property is rented (long or short term), occupied or empty

Convenience

All our policy documents are in English and you will talk directly to a UK based English speaking support team.

Competitive rates

A no claims discount of 20% on renewal premiums, plus an additional 10% discount for a higher excess.

Click on the logo below to link direct to Intasure's website where you can acquire an on-line quote and/or instant cover.

French property insurance with HIFX

HIFX Insurance Services forms part of the HIFX Group, one of the UK's leading independent financial services specialists. HIFX Insurance Services provides tailored insurance policies designed to meet the specific needs of holiday home and overseas property owners.

Cover includes:

• Buildings
• Contents
• Travel
• Title Insurance

Whether you are looking to insure an existing property abroad, or you are just about to invest in a holiday home, it is essential that you arrange adequate insurance cover to protect your investment. However finding suitable insurance can be difficult as many insurers attach larger risks to holiday homes and overseas properties as they are often left unoccupied for long periods and are used for letting.

There are a bewildering number of alternatives available and options include policies offered by foreign insurers that are written in a foreign language, or UK policies which have been adapted to try to meet the needs of overseas owners.

Don't be tempted to use a normal house insurance policy and not disclose that the property is a holiday home, because insurers have the right not to pay if you make a claim.

The best option in many cases is a specialist holiday home insurance policy that is designed for general holiday home use, and occasional letting.

When arranging your cover, it is important that you carefully consider what you will be using your overseas property for. Will you be using it occasionally as a holiday home or residing there permanently. Or do you intend to let the property out to tenants?

It is also vital that you have the relevant insurance in place by the time of the completion. The notaire will require your policy document before the sale can be completed. There will be occasions when the notaire may suggest that you speak to a local insurance firm for a quote. Note: a notaire (French) is a public officer working under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Justice, who gives authenticity to legal documents requiring formality under French Law. (Commonly real-estate deeds, family matters and business law etc.). However, when, or if you do this, please pay careful attention to the level of cover that is being provided. Holiday home insurance policies purchased overseas typically provide a much lower level of cover than a UK policy. For example, if you are not residing at the property full time there is a real danger you may find that you have insufficient cover should you need to make a claim. In addition, the policies are usually written in French making clarification of policy coverage more difficult.

Underwritten at Lloyds of London, our policies have been created to provide customers with total peace of mind and give exceptional value.