Floodings in Luxembourg : do you need to take a special insurance ?
In Luxembourg, some areas are more prone to flooding. Authorities regularly publish risk maps identifying various types of flooding: overflowing rivers, rainwater runoff, and land subsidence due to heavy rainfall. These natural forces can significantly damage homes and vehicles alike.
Where Can You Find Flood Risk Maps?
Via inondations.lu
To help residents assess their exposure based on past natural disasters, the Water Management Administration has released an updated flood map. It’s zoomable, with risk levels colour-coded by area.
The map can be zoomed in on, and the risk is shown by area using a colour code.
Floods risks on Géoportail
For more detailed analysis, the Luxembourg Government’s Geoportail allows you to check your exact plot's exposure. Remember, parked vehicles in flood-prone zones can also suffer major damage and require suitable insurance.
A standard home insurance policy covers common risks: fire, water damage, theft, etc. However, damage caused by natural disasters like floods usually requires specific coverage. Insurers generally offer it as an add-on.
At Baloise, flood cover isn’t optional—it’s included by default in the Home insurance Essentielle package.
What does flood coverage include?
Flood insurance protects you from the financial impact of water damage due to flooding. Here’s what it generally includes:
|
Type of Expense |
Covered Example |
|
Material damage |
Repairs to walls, floors, and electrics after drying |
|
Cleaning costs |
Water pumping, decontamination, mould treatment |
|
Temporary relocation |
Hotel or rental costs during restoration work |
|
Property restoration |
Replacement of furniture, appliances, and personal items |
Note: Vehicles aren’t covered by this guarantee. They require comprehensive car insurance. Always read your general policy terms carefully to understand limits and exclusions.
- Elevate electrical appliances (boiler, meters, sockets) at least 50 cm above the floor
- Install backflow valves to prevent sewage backups
- Secure outdoor furniture and loose items
- Prepare an emergency kit: torch, battery radio, medication, drinking water, dry clothes, important documents
- Store toxic products (paint, cleaning agents) high up to avoid water pollution
During: Stay Safe
- Cut electricity and gas to prevent shocks or explosions
- Move to higher floors with your emergency kit
- Never walk or drive through flooded roads—30 cm of water can sweep away a vehicle
- Stay informed via radio or inondations.lu
- Watch for sudden mudslides
After: Clean Up and Report
- Wear gloves and boots—flood water may carry infections
- Ventilate and dehumidify affected rooms quickly
- Photograph all damage before cleaning for your insurance file
- Report the damage to Baloise with detailed proof and photos
To be compensated in the event of flooding, you must ensure that you have taken out flood cover or the essential Home home insurance package. Your policy must clearly state that you are covered in the event of flooding. If in doubt, contact your agent. This cover applies to your home.
With regard to your vehicle, you must also ensure that you have taken out the necessary cover in your insurance policy.
How Do You File a Claim?
A detailed claim will make compensation easier. You can refer to our article on claims for help.
Do you have questions about your personal situation?
If you have any questions or concerns about your location or your contract, please do not hesitate to seek advice from a Baloise agent near you.
Text originally published in March 2029, updated in August 2025.
In Luxembourg, flood insurance is not legally mandatory. However, it is strongly recommended, particularly for homes located in high-risk areas.
Your vehicle is not automatically covered in the event of flooding. Only car insurance that includes ‘natural forces’ coverage protects your vehicle against this type of damage. In the event of damage caused by flooding, you will therefore need to contact your car insurance company and not your home insurance company.
Home insurance with flood coverage in the broad sense covers direct property damage caused by water, cleaning and drying costs, as well as the costs of repairing movable and immovable property. Coverage generally extends to damage related to weather events such as storms, hail and snow.
Yes, the Luxembourg government offers financial assistance to households affected by natural disasters. This assistance covers the costs of necessary repairs and the purchase of essential items related to the main residence. To be eligible, those affected must reside in Luxembourg and submit an application to the Ministry of Family Affairs.