Housing

Contents insurance, not required, but get it anyway

Updated July 2026Reviewed July 2026
The one-line versionIndboforsikring (contents insurance) covers your belongings against theft, fire and water damage, and usually includes personal liability. It is not legally required but strongly recommended - roughly DKK 1,200-2,500 a year.

What indboforsikring covers

Indboforsikring (contents insurance) protects your personal belongings against theft, fire, water damage and similar risks. Crucially, it almost always includes personal liability cover (ansvarsforsikring) - which pays out if you accidentally injure someone or damage their property. That liability element alone makes it worth having.

Cost and valueBasic contents insurance for an apartment typically runs DKK 1,200-2,500 per year, depending on home size, location and cover level. Against the cost of replacing stolen electronics or furniture after a break-in - or a liability claim - it is inexpensive protection.

Renters vs owners

  • Renters: indboforsikring covers your possessions and liability. Many landlords expect tenants to carry it.
  • Owners: you also need building insurance (husforsikring) for the structure - mortgage lenders generally require it before releasing funds.
  • Buying a house: ejerskifteforsikring (owner-change insurance) is a one-off policy covering hidden defects, lasting 5-10 years - optional but often advised.
The one insurance owners can't skipContents and owner-change insurance are voluntary, but building/fire insurance is effectively mandatory if you have a mortgage - lenders require proof of cover before completing. Factor it into buying costs.

Choosing a policy

Compare on cover limits, deductibles (selvrisiko) and add-ons, not just price - the cheapest policy can leave gaps. Bundling with other insurance sometimes lowers the premium. Check whether valuables, bikes and travel are included or need add-ons.

Bikes and travel are common add-onsIn a cycling country, theft cover for your bike matters - check the limit and whether a separate add-on is needed. Many policies also bundle basic travel cover, which can save a separate purchase.

Common questions

Is contents insurance mandatory?
No - but it is strongly recommended, includes personal liability, and many landlords expect tenants to have it.
What does it cost?
Roughly DKK 1,200-2,500 a year for an apartment, depending on size, location and cover. Compare on protection, not just price.
What must a homeowner insure?
Building/fire insurance is effectively required with a mortgage. Contents and owner-change (ejerskifte) insurance are voluntary but advisable.

Verified July 2026 against official sources: the Danish Rent Act (Lejeloven), lifeindenmark.borger.dk and huslejenaevn guidance. Costs are 2026 estimates and vary by home, provider and municipality. General information, not legal advice - see our editorial policy.

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