Danish home insurance, the cover you actually need

Contents insurance (indboforsikring)

This covers your personal belongings against theft, fire and water damage, whether you rent or own. It is not legally required, but it is inexpensive and standard, most Danes have it. It typically also covers your things when you travel, and often includes the all-important liability cover.

Liability cover (ansvarsforsikring)

This is the one people overlook and should not. Ansvarsforsikring pays out if you accidentally injure someone or damage their property, for example flooding the flat below you. It is usually bundled into contents insurance. Claims can be large, so this cover matters more than its low cost suggests.

Other common policies

Beyond contents and liability: car insurance (mandatory if you own a car), accident insurance (ulykkesforsikring) for injuries, and optional private health insurance to skip public waiting lists. Homeowners also need building insurance (husforsikring).

How to buy it

Compare providers online, big names include Tryg, Topdanmark, Alka and GF, and expect to pay by Betalingsservice direct debit. Get a policy set up when you move in; landlords may ask for proof. Bundling policies with one insurer usually earns a discount.

Common questions