jonkemp

Our Estate Agents are being very helpful and have contacted the current insureres of the house we are in the process of buying so that the policy can be transferred into our name on completion. However, we have been asked if we want 'extra burgalry protection. Doesn't Fremch insurance cover 'burglary' or is it a case of they don't pay out much for contents. The house has shutters on most, but not all the windows and will be a holiday home to begin with.

dmu

Hi, I personally would shop around before accepting the Estate Agent's recommended insurance company. The former owners terminated their contract and that's that. There's no contract to transfer and you aren't obliged to continue with the same company.
When you take out the insurance, you specify the value of the contents that you want insured against burglary, fire- and water-damage. When we used our present house as a holiday home, we chose the minimum premium, but since living here with all our goods and chattels, we obviously upgraded.
Hope this helps!

Peabrain

Hi,
Of course French insurers cover burglary protection , but as has already been said, you may have to give a rough estimate of contents value, which will influence the amount the premium will be. I wouldn't advise you to underestimate the value, as of course should some evil bastard actually break in and steal the lot, then the insurer will only cough up for what you'd declared. Take photos of anything valuable. Get shutters put on windows that are easily accessible. Holiday homes are often targeted even though they may not have anything in them worth stealing.
Again, shop around for insurance, but choose a reputable company.