Looking for home insurance in Portugal? We’ve put together this guide to help you with everything you need to know about the policies available and how to get covered.

Insurance is one of the main things to know when you move to a new country.  Leaving valuable possessions and property open to risks like theft or damage can make you feel unsafe. Although Portugal is one of the safest countries in the world, depending on the region, it is always nice to think about the subject. Fortunately, there are many companies in Portugal that offer different types of home insurance. Their policies can cover your new home and its contents, whether you choose to buy or rent. 

First of all, home insurance in Portugal is not compulsory for everyone, but you’ll need a minimum level of building insurance if you buy a home and take out a mortgage. 

Home insurance is usually sold as a single type in Portugal, just called home insurance or house insurance with different policy levels. The basic ones cover damage to the building, which is the minimum requirement for mortgage holders. But you can get extended policies that cover personal contents and civil liability. It’s also possible to get them separately.

Can you use home insurance if abroad?

YES! But only if the policy specifies coverage in other countries, including Portugal. If you want a building insurance at the request of a mortgage holder, it might be needed to be with a company regulated by the ASF in Portugal. 

Home insurance in Portugal

There are generally two types of home insurance, or building insurance, in Portugal:

• Fire insurance – a minimum level of insurance for homeowners getting a mortgage. Most policies also cover floods, storms, and electrical damage. 
• Multi-risk insurance – an extended coverage. Often tailored towards individual needs that might include public liability, contents coverage, legal protection, earthquake protection, and the cost of alternative accommodation if your home becomes uninhabitable. 

While policies will typically pay out for rebuilding and repair costs, there are exclusions like deliberate damage and degradation due to wear and tear. 

How to choose your home insurance

To get the best insurance policy for you, you should consider all many factors rather than just opting for the cheapest deal. Things to take into account could include:

• Discounts offered 
• Level of coverage 
• Company reputation 
• Claims process 

Applying for insurance

Each insurance company has its own application process, but you’ll usually need to provide:

• Personal details + address
• Information on the property, including total value (if you are insuring the building, the company may request a professional valuation)
• NIF
• Bank account details

Having home insurance in Portugal is usually cheaper and easy. The process is fast and the coverage happens right after the first payment. And if you are thinking about investing in real estate in this country, this knowledge is of the highest importance.

Here, at Live Abroad – Portugal, we work with the best companies with the best deals in the market. Come talk with us 🙂