Is There Earthquake Insurance in Turkey, and What Is DASK

Given the recurring seismic activity Turkey experiences every year, earthquake insurance is indisputably one of the fundamental tools for protecting properties and real estate in the country.

In this context, the Disaster Insurance Institution (DASK), established by the Turkish government, is crucial as the responsible body for issuing mandatory earthquake insurance in Turkey, known as DASK Insurance.

In this comprehensive guide, "Is there earthquake insurance in Turkey, and what is DASK?", we will provide a detailed explanation of DASK insurance, clarify whether it is indeed mandatory, provide details about the cost of earthquake insurance in Turkey, and explain how to obtain DASK insurance electronically and through traditional agencies.

We will also discuss the process of renewing DASK insurance, what the insurance specifically covers, and how tenants and foreign investors in Turkey can benefit from this insurance.

Additionally, we will address the limits of earthquake insurance for homes in Turkey and the role of property insurance in Turkey in general.

What is DASK Insurance?

What does the Disaster Insurance Institution (DASK) mean?

The Disaster Insurance Institution (Doğal Afet Sigortaları Kurumu - DASK) is Turkey's official entity managing earthquake insurance.

DASK was established in 2000 as part of the Turkish government's efforts to create mandatory earthquake insurance to ensure that all citizens and property owners receive at least a minimum level of coverage against seismic activities.

What does DASK Insurance cover?

DASK insurance focuses only on protecting the structural integrity of the property, including:

• Foundations: Protection against damage to the building’s foundation caused by seismic movements.
• Load-bearing walls: Insurance for the walls that bear the structure's weight.
• Roofs: Coverage for roof damage and falling debris.
• Stairs and corridors: Ensures the safety of entrances and internal movement.
• Elevators and water tanks: Compensation for damage to the building's elevator systems and water tanks.

Note: DASK insurance only covers the external structure of the building and does not include furniture, internal contents, or other coverages like fire or theft.

Is DASK Insurance mandatory in Turkey?

Who is required to obtain DASK insurance?

Under Turkey's mandatory earthquake insurance law, all property owners in Turkey, whether Turkish citizens or foreigners, must obtain DASK insurance before receiving essential services (electricity, water, gas).

Property transfer or sale is not allowed without an active DASK policy.

What happens if the insurance is not in place?

• Legal risks: The real estate registry office may refuse to transfer ownership without a valid DASK policy.
• Financial risks: If an earthquake occurs without DASK earthquake insurance, the property owner bears the full cost of repairs.
• Difficulty selling or renting: The property owner cannot sell or legally rent the property without a valid DASK policy.

Cost of Earthquake Insurance in Turkey

Factors determining DASK insurance prices

The cost of earthquake insurance in Turkey is calculated based on several criteria:

• Property size (in square meters): Larger properties have higher premiums.
• Geographical location: High-risk seismic zones (near fault lines) have higher premiums.
• Building type and specifications: Reinforced concrete buildings are priced differently from brick structures.
• Year of construction: Older properties may face slight increases in prices.

Average DASK Insurance Prices for 2025

According to the latest updates, DASK insurance prices for 2025 range from:

• 150 to 300 Turkish Lira for small properties (<100 m²).
• 300 to 500 Turkish Lira for medium-sized properties (100–200 m²).
• 500 Turkish Lira and above for larger properties (>200 m²).

These figures show that earthquake insurance in Turkey through DASK remains affordable for most economic groups, compared to the potential risks it protects against.

How to Obtain DASK Insurance

Detailed steps to obtain DASK insurance

1. Prepare property documents: Full property address, size, year of construction, and building type.
2. Choose an accredited insurance company: Over 30 licensed insurance companies offer earthquake insurance services in Turkey.
3. Submit the application and NFB number: Some insurance companies require an NFB number, which is a registered building identification number in the government system.
4. Pay the premium electronically or in cash: The premium can be paid via bank cards or transfer.

Issue the DASK Policy Electronically

You can now obtain and renew your DASK insurance in minutes through official websites or apps without visiting branches. This method simplifies the process and speeds up an active DASK policy issuance.

Renewing DASK Insurance

Ideal renewal timing

DASK policies are renewed every 12 months. To avoid any interruption in coverage, it is recommended that the renewal process be started one month before the policy expires.

Renewal process

• Log in to your account on the insurance company’s platform.
• Review property details (update size or name if needed).
• Pay the new premium via available electronic methods.
• Receive the new policy immediately after payment confirmation.

Note: No official late penalties exist, but a coverage gap exposes the property to legally uncovered risks.

DASK Insurance for Tenants in Turkey

Tenants' rights under DASK

Although earthquake insurance for tenants is not legally mandatory in Turkey, property owners are required to have a DASK policy. Tenants' rights include:

• Assurance regarding the structural safety of the building.
• Requesting a copy of the DASK insurance policy from the landlord.
• Claiming compensation for building damage from the landlord in the event of an earthquake.

How tenants can benefit

Tenants can purchase additional property insurance that covers home contents, such as furniture and electronics, to complement the coverage provided by DASK insurance.

DASK Insurance for Foreign Investors

Legal procedures for foreigners

• Compliance with the law: All foreign investors must obtain DASK insurance when owning property in Turkey.
• Quick steps: Insurance companies require a passport or Turkish national number (T.C.) from foreign investors.

Tips for foreign investors

• Compare offers from different insurance companies to ensure the best price for earthquake insurance in Turkey.
• Check for additional coverage options (such as fire or theft insurance) to complement property insurance in Turkey.
• Use real estate brokers to get discounts on DASK policies.

Property Insurance in Turkey: Is DASK Enough?

Differences between DASK and comprehensive property insurance:

• DASK: Covers structural damage caused by earthquakes only.
• Comprehensive property insurance: Includes fire, theft, floods, and other damages.

When is additional insurance needed?

• If you own valuable furniture or high-value contents.
• In areas prone to floods or wildfires.
• It is for investors seeking comprehensive coverage for their properties.

Earthquake Insurance for Homes in Turkey

The importance of insurance in high-risk areas

Regions like Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara are characterized by high seismic risks, making earthquake insurance for homes in Turkey essential for every property owner.

Applications for different types of homes

• Individual homes: Usually require a stronger DASK policy due to their larger size.
• Apartments: The cost of earthquake insurance in Turkey can be reduced with special discounts for apartments.
• Shared residential buildings: All apartments share one DASK policy covering the entire building.

Frequently Asked Questions: Is There Earthquake Insurance in Turkey, and What Is DASK

Can I get earthquake insurance in Turkey before purchasing the property?

You can purchase DASK insurance before completing the property transfer procedures to ensure utility services are connected immediately upon registration.

What is the difference between DASK insurance and additional insurance for tenants?

DASK covers only the exterior structure, while tenant insurance covers the home's contents and appliances.

Does the year of construction affect DASK insurance prices in 2025?

Yes, older properties may experience slight increases in DASK insurance prices in 2025 due to higher risks of settling and wear.

How can foreign investors save on earthquake insurance costs in Turkey?

By comparing insurance companies' offers and selecting policies that combine DASK insurance for foreign investors with additional coverage at discounted prices.

What happens if the owner delays renewing DASK insurance?

There are no financial penalties, but an interruption in coverage exposes the property to risks, and reissuing the policy after an earthquake may result in a higher price.

Conclusion

In conclusion, earthquake insurance in Turkey, especially DASK insurance, is the first line of defense for protecting properties in Turkey from natural disasters.

By understanding DASK insurance, its cost, how to obtain it, what it covers, and its limits, you are empowered to make informed and secure real estate decisions.

Whether you are an owner, tenant, or foreign investor, compliance with mandatory earthquake insurance in Turkey ensures safety and peace of mind during a potential earthquake.

To protect your real estate and investments, regularly issue and renew your DASK insurance policy.