Going on holiday? Check your French home to avoid insurance problems
A few minutes of preparation can reduce the risk of leaks, break-ins and disputes with your insurer
Published
Before locking the door behind you and setting off on holiday, it is worth taking a few minutes to make sure your home is properly secured.
Doing so can help reduce the risk of problems while you are away and ensure you comply with the conditions of your French home insurance policy.
Many insurances include specific requirements that apply when a property is left empty, and failing to meet them could reduce your compensation if you later need to make a claim.
Here are the main things to keep in mind before you leave.
Read your insurance policy
Not all home insurance contracts are the same. Before leaving, the main thing to check is whether your contract contains a vacancy clause (clause d’inhabitation), which sets the maximum period your home can remain unoccupied before certain guarantees are limited or suspended.
Many policies set this around 60 to 90 days, but the period varies between insurers.
Lock up properly
Always make sure doors, windows, and any other access points are securely locked before leaving as many insurers require it.
Some contracts also include shutters being closed for extended absences but this is not a universal rule, so once again checking your contract is necessary.
If your home has an alarm or security system, activate it before you leave if this is needed under your policy.
Turn off the water
Shutting off the main water supply is another simple way to avoid a costly leak while you are away. A burst pipe or failed appliance can cause significant damage if water continues flowing for days or weeks.
However, this is not a legal obligation but can be a contractual obligation by insurers as a sensible precaution.
Leave essential electricity on
Switching electricity off completely is not always advisable. Your fridge or freezer may need to stay running, while alarm systems and surveillance cameras rely on electricity.
Instead of turning off the main power, it is advisable to unplug non-essential electrical appliances to reduce unnecessary energy use and minimise electrical risks.
Check what is covered outside
Standard home insurance does not always automatically cover everything outside the house.
Garden sheds, outbuildings, fences, swimming pools and some outdoor equipment may require additional cover or need to be specifically declared to your insurer.
If you have recently added a garden office, workshop or other outbuilding, it is worth checking that it appears on your policy.
Put away outdoor furniture and equipment
If possible, store garden furniture, tools, barbecues, children's toys and other valuable outdoor items in a garage, shed or inside the house before leaving.
This helps reduce the risk of theft and can also prevent damage if bad weather or a natural disaster strikes while you are away.
