If you’re a foreigner who has recently moved to Denmark and settled into your new place, it’s important to understand the basics of indboforsikring, or home content insurance in Denmark. Although it’s not legally required, home content insurance in Denmark is strongly recommended, especially in a country where unexpected costs like water damage or theft can be quite expensive.
In this page, we will walk you through what home content insurance in Denmark typically covers, what to expect as a newcomer, how to compare your options, and which providers are known for being expat-friendly.
Here are the key points in this article:
- Understanding indboforsikring in Denmark: Home content insurance in Denmark, known as indboforsikring, is not legally required but highly recommended for protecting personal belongings against risks like theft, fire, and water damage.
- What does home content insurance typically cover?: This insurance usually includes coverage for theft, fire and smoke damage, water damage, personal liability, vandalism, legal assistance, temporary relocation, and optional extras like bicycle or electronics protection.
- Getting and managing insurance as a foreigner in Denmark: Foreigners can obtain home content insurance by providing a CPR number and Danish address; many insurers now offer online application, digital claims, and English support, making the process accessible.
- Factors to consider when choosing a policy: Key considerations include coverage limits, optional add-ons, deductibles, digital tools and support, and reading the fine print to ensure adequate protection for belongings and potential damages. We recommend you use FindForsikring to receive offers.
- The importance and prevalence of home content insurance in Denmark: Over 90% of Danish households hold some form of home contents insurance, reflecting a culture of responsibility and the common expectation, especially among urban residents, to protect against risks like burglary and water damage.
The Best Home Content Insurance in Denmark for You
You don’t have to read to the end to know what the best bank for you is. Finding the right home contents insurance in Denmark doesn’t have to be complicated, especially if you’re new to the country. A great starting point is using FindForsikring, which is a reliable insurance comparison platform. FindForsikring allows you to compare multiple offers side by side from trusted Danish providers, and help you see the differences in price, coverage, and terms at a glance.
Findforsikring.dk makes it easy for you to receive 3 free insurance quotes from different companies in one go. Many people overpay for insurance, so a quick check with an insurance comparison platform like Findforsikring.dk could save you money. Simply compare the offers and choose the best and cheapest option for you.
If you are looking for detailed guides on the different types of home insurances in Denmark, you may want to check out my other guides, where I cover these topics in detail:
- Best Home Insurance in Denmark
- Best Renters Insurance in Denmark
- Best Change-of-Ownership Insurance in Denmark
- Best House Insurance in Denmark
- Best Legal Insurance in Denmark
What Home Content Insurance in Denmark Typically Covers
In Denmark, indboforsikring usually includes several key elements bundled into a single policy. Here’s a quick overview of what’s typically included:
| Coverage Area | What’s Included |
|---|---|
| Theft & Burglary | Covers loss or damage to personal belongings inside your home due to theft |
| Fire & Smoke Damage | Protects items destroyed or damaged by fire or smoke |
| Water Damage | Covers belongings affected by leaking pipes or flooding (depending on cause) |
| Personal Liability | Legal responsibility coverage if you accidentally harm someone or damage property |
| Vandalism & Break-in Damage | Damage caused during break-ins, even if nothing is stolen |
| Legal Assistance | Often included to help with tenant/landlord or private disputes |
| Temporary Relocation Costs | Covers costs of temporary housing if your home becomes uninhabitable |
| Optional Add-ons | Bicycle insurance, electronics protection, luggage abroad, accidental damage etc. |
Do note that a special type of home content insurance in Denmark called ejerskifteforsikring (change-of-ownership insurance) is relevant only if you’re buying a property, not renting. This policy protects buyers from hidden defects in the home after purchase and is taken out during the sales process.
What You Can Expect When Buying Home Content Insurance in Denmark
To begin with, most insurers will require that you have a CPR number (civil registration number) and a registered Danish address. Without these, it’s often not possible to get home content insurance in Denmark. That said, once you’re registered in the system, you’re treated like any other resident.
Expect that language can be a hurdle. Many insurance websites are only available in Danish, and contract details are typically provided in Danish too. However, several larger insurance companies do offer English-language customer service, and some even provide online portals or support chat in English. If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out and ask. Many Danes are generally happy to switch to English in conversation.
Another thing to be aware of is that Danish home contents insurance is often bundled with other useful protections. A typical policy includes personal liability insurance (ansvarsforsikring) and sometimes legal aid. This means you’re not just protecting your belongings, but also yourself in case of accidental damage to others’ property or legal issues.
Costs vary depending on the size of your home, where you live, and what level of coverage you choose, but you can generally expect to pay between 80–200 DKK per month. Optional add-ons, like bicycle insurance or coverage for expensive electronics, can raise this amount slightly. On the other hand, they can also offer peace of mind.
The application process is digital with most providers, and claims are also typically handled online. While Danish efficiency shines through in most parts of this process, the claims procedure still requires good documentation, think receipts, police reports for theft, and photos of damaged items.
Overall, buying home content insurance in Denmark as a foreigner is manageable, especially if you take a bit of time to compare your options and seek out a provider that’s welcoming to international residents.
What You Should Consider When Choosing the Right Policy
When you are choosing the right home content insurance in Denmark, you will have to choose one depending on your living situation, the value of your belongings, and how much flexibility you want. Here are some key factors I would suggest you consider:
- Check the Coverage Limits: Make sure the policy covers the total value of your belongings. If you own expensive electronics, bikes, or furniture, you might need to increase the default coverage.
- Consider Optional Add-ons: If you cycle often or travel with your laptop, consider adding bicycle insurance or travel theft protection. Some insurers even cover items lost abroad.
- Evaluate the Deductible (Selvrisiko): A higher deductible means lower monthly premiums, but more out-of-pocket cost during a claim. Choose what fits your budget and risk level.
- Compare Digital Tools & Support: Some insurers have better apps or online claim systems, while others have multilingual customer service.
- Read the Fine Print: Not all policies cover accidental damage or issues related to mold. Look for clear terms, especially if your Danish isn’t fluent.
Understand Home Content Insurances in Denmark
Home content insurance is one of the most widely held insurance types in Denmark, and for good reason. According to data from Forsikring & Pension, the Danish insurance and pension industry association, more than 90% of households in Denmark have some form of home contents insurance. This high adoption rate reflects not just a culture of preparedness, but also the fact that landlords often expect tenants to hold their own insurance.
A 2022 report from the Danish Consumer Council, Forbrugerrådet Tænk, showed that Danes tend to value insurance highly, particularly for everyday risks like burglary, fire, and water damage. In urban areas such as Copenhagen, Aarhus, and Odense, theft claims, especially bicycle theft, are among the most commonly reported, which makes it a good idea to have a proper insurance.
Interestingly, foreigners in Denmark are less likely to have full insurance coverage in their first year. This is often due to a lack of knowledge about what’s expected or available, and sometimes language barriers. However, studies suggest that once foreigners are aware of the bundled protections that come with Danish insurance policies, such as personal liability or legal aid, they are more likely to sign up.
Another trend worth noting is that as of 2024, many insurers in Denmark are increasingly moving toward app-based management, including policy documents, coverage customization, and claim filing. This digital approach appeals to a growing number of expats and younger Danes who value speed and transparency.
In short, Denmark is a highly insured society, and having home contents insurance is considered both responsible and expected.
FAQ About Home Content Insurance in Denmark
What is home contents insurance (indboforsikring) in Denmark?
Home contents insurance—indboforsikring—covers your personal belongings inside your home, such as furniture, electronics, clothes, and valuables. It also often includes liability insurance (ansvarsforsikring) in case you accidentally damage someone else’s property.
Is home contents insurance mandatory in Denmark?
No, it’s not legally required. However, it’s strongly recommended, especially for renters and students, as it protects you financially in case of fire, theft, water damage, or accidents involving third parties.
Does my landlord’s insurance cover my belongings?
No. Your landlord’s insurance covers the building structure only. If your possessions are damaged or stolen, it’s your own contents insurance that provides coverage.
Can I get contents insurance as a foreigner or newcomer to Denmark?
Yes, absolutely. Many insurers welcome newcomers, and you can easily apply online. Some platforms also offer customer service in English and tailored advice for expats.
How much does home contents insurance cost in Denmark?
The average cost ranges between 80–150 DKK per month, depending on your coverage level, property size, and location. Some providers offer student or bundled discounts.
