DASK and Home Insurance in Turkey: A Guide for Foreign Property Owners
How DASK compulsory earthquake insurance works for property owners in Turkey, its limits and deductible, the transactions that require it and how home insurance fills the gaps.
Every property owner in Turkey quickly meets the word DASK. It is the compulsory earthquake insurance required for most homes, and you cannot complete a title deed transfer or open some utility subscriptions without it. But DASK is limited by design, and many owners are surprised by what it does not cover. This guide explains how DASK works, when you need it and how optional home insurance completes the protection.
Last updated: November 2026. Coverage limits and tariffs are updated regularly, so check the current figures when you buy or renew a policy.
What Is DASK?
DASK is the Turkish Catastrophe Insurance Pool, and the term is commonly used for the compulsory earthquake insurance policy it provides. The policy is required by law for residential buildings within municipal boundaries and is sold through insurance companies and banks. It runs for one year and must be renewed every year by the owner.
What DASK Covers
- Direct earthquake damage to the building itself
- Damage caused by fire, explosion, tsunami or landslide that results from an earthquake
- The structural and complementary parts of the building, such as foundations, walls, roof, stairs and lifts
Cover is based on the rebuilding cost of your unit, up to a maximum limit set each year by the government. If your home is worth more to rebuild than that limit, the excess is not covered by DASK.
What DASK Does Not Cover
- Furniture, appliances and other contents
- Loss of rent or the cost of alternative accommodation
- Debris removal and business interruption
- Personal injury
- Damage from non-earthquake events such as burst pipes, ordinary fire or theft
Each claim is also subject to a deductible of 2% of the insured amount.
When You Need a DASK Policy
- Title deed transfer: the land registry checks for a valid policy for the property before the transfer. See the full list of documents needed to buy property in Turkey.
- Utility subscriptions: electricity and water subscriptions require a valid policy.
- Mortgages: banks require DASK, and usually home insurance, for mortgaged properties.
After the purchase, put the renewal date in your calendar. A lapsed policy can cause problems when you need a subscription, a sale or a claim.
How the Premium Is Calculated
The premium depends on the declared floor area, the building's construction type and age and the earthquake risk zone of the location. Declare the floor area accurately: if the information is found to be wrong after an earthquake, the payout is reduced in proportion.
Some buildings fall outside DASK's scope, including buildings without a project or engineering services, illegal structures and buildings whose load-bearing system has been altered. This is one more reason to check permits and the occupancy permit before you buy. See what is iskan in Turkey?
Why Owners Add Home Insurance
Optional home insurance (konut sigortası) fills most of the gaps left by DASK. A typical policy can include:
- Contents cover for furniture and appliances
- Fire, water leak, storm and theft cover
- Additional earthquake cover above the DASK limit
- Loss of rent and alternative accommodation
- Third-party liability, for example if water damage spreads to a neighbour
For a rented property, home insurance is especially useful because tenant damage, leaks and loss of rent are among the most common problems. Discuss it with your property manager when you set up a rental. Our property management service can arrange renewals for owners who live abroad.
Making a Claim
- Report the damage as soon as possible through the official channels.
- Photograph and film the damage before any repairs, except urgent safety work.
- Keep receipts for any work you must do immediately.
- Provide the policy, title deed, identity document and the damage assessment report.
Payment is due within 30 days after the assessment is completed and the documents are provided.
Earthquake Safety Starts Before Insurance
Insurance pays after damage. The best protection is choosing a well-built property in the first place. Read our guide to building standards before buying property in Turkey and include insurance in the annual costs of owning property in Turkey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is DASK mandatory in Turkey?
Yes, for residential buildings within municipal boundaries. It is required for title deed transfers and for electricity and water subscriptions.
Does DASK cover my furniture?
No. DASK covers the building only. Contents need separate home insurance.
How long is a DASK policy valid?
One year. The owner is responsible for renewing it every year.
Is DASK enough on its own?
For many owners, no. DASK has a maximum limit and a deductible, and it does not cover contents, rent loss or non-earthquake damage. Home insurance fills these gaps.
Own With Peace of Mind
Compare well-built options among property for sale in Istanbul, start with our Property Turkey guide or ask our team about insurance and management for your property.