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Home Flooding, storms, natural disasters: are you properly insured
May 5, 2025
Floods, storms, landslides — these are the types of natural disasters you may face in Luxembourg. With these risks on the rise, having the right insurance is no longer optional — it’s essential. But is your home truly protected? Take a moment to review your home insurance policy and make sure you’ve got the cover you need.
What natural disasters affect Luxembourg?
  • Flooding: a growing risk: in July 2021, severe flooding hit several towns across Luxembourg, with total damages estimated at around €125 million (according to ACA – the Association of Insurance Companies). As rainfall intensifies and the ground becomes increasingly saturated, floods are becoming more frequent.
  • Storms and strong winds: Luxembourg experiences several episodes of high winds (over 90 km/h) each year. These storms, often accompanied by heavy rain, can bring down trees, tear off roofs and cause power cuts — with major consequences for homes.
  • Landslides and other natural hazards: landslides can and do occur in Luxembourg. They may damage a home’s foundations or make access impossible.

Extreme weather events are becoming more common in Luxembourg. The right insurance cover is essential for protecting yourself effectively.

What Does Standard Home Insurance in Luxembourg Cover?
What’s typically included

A standard home insurance policy usually covers damage caused by:

  • fire
  • storms
  • landslides

Some policies also cover hail or lightning strikes.

Common exclusions

NB. Natural disasters like flooding aren’t always automatically included. You may need to add a specific flood cover. Our new Home contract includes flood cover as standard.

Other common exclusions:

  • damage caused by lack of maintenance
  • foreseeable events (e.g. living in a known flood zone without taking preventive measures)

Since each policy is different, it’s essential to read the general terms and conditions or speak directly with your insurer.

Is there such a thing as “natural disaster” cover?

There’s usually no single “natural disaster” clause, but your home insurance policy may protect you against damage from storms, hail, snow, floods or landslides.

These types of cover may be included in your policy or offered as optional extras. It’s up to you to check that you’re properly protected.

You should also make sure:

  • your garden furniture or solar panels (if you have them) are insured
  • your belongings are insured at their proper replacement value

How to check if  you're properly covered

To find out if your home is protected against natural disasters:

  • Review the guarantees included in your home insurance policy
  • Look for mentions of “flood,” “storm,” “landslide” or “natural disasters”
  • Contact your insurer to request additional cover if needed

 

How can you strengthen your home’s protection against natural disasters?
Adjust your insurance policy

Don’t hesitate to add extra cover, such as:

  • flood protection if your current policy doesn’t include it
  • coverage for temporary accommodation
  • insuring your possessions for their full replacement value

These options help safeguard your property and peace of mind.

Prepare your home

Some simple home improvements can limit potential damage:

  • Install backflow valves on pipes to prevent water backing up
  • Raise electrical sockets in basements
  • Reinforce your roof and secure shutters

What to do if a disaster strikes

If your home is affected by a natural disaster:

  • Prioritise safety and secure the premises
  • Take photos of the damage as soon as possible
  • Keep all repair and purchase receipts
  • Report the damage to your insurer within the timeframe stated (typically 5 working days)

A complete and well-documented claim helps ensure a quicker response.

Natural disasters are a real threat in Luxembourg. From floods and storms to landslides, staying vigilant is crucial. Make sure your home insurance covers these risks. Don’t hesitate to contact your insurer to review your current cover and add any necessary protection. Safeguarding your home means safeguarding your peace of mind.

Frequently asked questions about home insurance and natural disasters
Does my home insurance cover flooding?

Yes — if you’ve taken out a policy like Home 2, flooding is covered under certain conditions. Be sure to check the general terms and conditions for any exclusions.
If you have an older Home policy, contact your agent to find out whether flood cover is included.

Are storms covered by my home insurance?

Yes, storm damage is usually part of basic home insurance cover. However, whether or not a claim is accepted depends on the specific circumstances and any exclusions in your policy.

Am I covered for landslides or wildfires?

Yes — material damage from landslides or vegetation fires may be covered, provided your policy includes these risks. Check for any specific limitations.

Are outdoor equipment and gardens insured?

Garden furniture, plants and outdoor equipment are not usually covered by default. You may need to add extra cover to protect these items.

Does my policy cover temporary accommodation costs?

Yes — some policies, such as Home 2, provide cover for temporary accommodation if your home becomes uninhabitable due to a natural disaster. This cover is usually time limited.

Can I change my cover during the term of the policy?

Yes — you can update your cover at any time. Speak with your insurance agent to adjust your policy to meet your current needs.

How can I check if my home is in a high-risk zone?

Visit geoportail.lu (under “water / flood directives”) to see flood risk zones, or contact your local council for more information.

What documents are needed to report a claim?

Prepare a damage report, take photos, and gather all relevant invoices or official documents (weather reports, police statements). You can find more information in our dedicated claims guide.

What are the deadlines for reporting a claim?

Claims must usually be reported within 8 working days of the event, unless exceptional circumstances apply. Check your policy terms for exact requirements.

Can I get state support if I’m not insured?

In the event of a natural disaster, Luxembourg’s Ministry of Family Affairs may offer financial assistance, subject to government approval. This support covers essential costs and is means-tested. You must apply via an online form made available after the event.