Property, automobile, and Health Insurance in France

from Nick Chubb, Asttral Insurance.

The French insurance industry has particular features which are often different than those which you are used to.  Insurance in France, for you and your property, is often compulsory.

It is important that newcomers are aware of these features.
Below are just a few examples which highlight these points.

Written notice of cancellation of a French insurance policy

In France concerning Insurance Agreements, according to the law (Codes des Assurances), it is necessary to give a minimum of 2 months written notice prior to the Annual Renewal date to avoid having to automatically continue the next year with the same Policy. All Policies are subject to this rule unless the Policy is issued for a firm period & therefore no renewal anticipated.

Homeowner and tenant insurance in France

The key Factor in assessment of premium are the dimensions of the property.

If renting out a property on a long term basis, it is necessary that both the owner & the renter have specific policies which cover the property.

French car, motor, automobile insurance

There is a minimum level of insurance required for a vehicle in France, even if it isn't being used.

In France a full No Claims Bonus is obtained after 13 years insurance accident free with the exception of those incidents where the insured is not liable & specific exclusions in the Policy, for example windowscreen breakage. You can get a letter from your current insurer that details your claims history.

French Health Insurance

Membership of the State Health System in many circumstances does not cover the full cost of your medical requirements. It is necessary to purchase, like most French citizens, a Mutuelle (Top Up ) to cover this short fall.

For UK and EU residents the E111 for Tourists / Visitors does not cover in France, in many circumstances, your full medical expenses. It covers only the same as a French citizen / resident would receive.

ASTTRAL SA

Asttral is a French domiciled Insurance Broker transacting business within France & Internationally. It is active in both Commercial & Retail Sectors of the Insurance market place, increasingly in aiding English speaking clients to identify, understand & subsequently arrange their insurance requirements in France.

ASTTRAL through it's French & English staff can help you to fully understand the market & arrange the appropriate insurance in the following sectors.

• PROPERTY,
• HEALTH,
• MOTOR,
• PERSONAL ACCIDENT,
• LIFE,
• MARINE,
• COMMERCIAL,
• EVENT & SPECIAL RISK.

If you have questions about insurance in France or require guidance about French insurance requirements contact Nicholas Chubb at ASTTRAL

E-mail: nchubb@asttral.com

Phone: +33 (0)4 68 32 41 20