Turkey is located in one of the world’s most active seismic zones, where earthquakes are not a matter of “if” but “when.” For this reason, the Turkish government mandates that every residential property owner must have DASK insurance (Doğal Afet Sigortaları Kurumu), also known as TCIP (Turkish Catastrophe Insurance Pool). This policy is an absolute necessity—without a valid one, a property title transfer cannot be completed, nor can new utility subscriptions like electricity, water, or gas be activated. Understanding this system is a key first step when purchasing a property in Turkey as a foreigner.
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What Does DASK/TCIP Insurance Cover?
DASK/TCIP provides property protection, covering damages caused directly by earthquakes, as well as related secondary effects like fire, explosions, tsunamis, or landslides. It is important to note that the coverage applies exclusively to the structural components of the building.
The scope of coverage includes:
- Foundations, main walls, columns, beams, ceilings, and roofs;
- Common areas such as stairs, elevators, corridors, etc.
What Is NOT Covered?
The policy has strictly defined exclusions and does not cover movable property or indirect losses. These include:
- Furniture, appliances, personal belongings;
- Costs for temporary accommodation or rent;
- Loss of rental income;
- Bodily injury or death;
- Damages unrelated to an earthquake (e.g., flooding from heavy rain).
For complete protection and to cover these risks, property owners should obtain an additional, voluntary property policy called Konut Sigortası.
How Is the Premium Calculated, and What Are the Limits for 2025?
The annual insurance premium is calculated based on three main factors:
- Seismic Zone: The location of the property.
- Construction Type: E.g., reinforced concrete, brick, etc.
- Gross Area: The square meterage of the residence.
Current Limits (2025)
The compensation limits are regularly updated to reflect inflation and rising construction costs. According to the latest official data for 2025, the maximum guarantee amount per DASK policy has reached 1,913,059 TRY. This represents a significant increase from the 1,272,000 TRY limit at the beginning of 2024, providing more adequate asset protection.
How to Obtain a DASK Policy?
The process is standardized and quick. A policy can be issued by most banks and licensed insurance companies. The required documents include the TAPU (title deed), a Vergi Numarası (tax number, which is mandatory for foreigners), and details about the property’s address, area, and construction. The policy is valid for 12 months and must be renewed annually. Knowing these details is part of understanding the overall costs and fees when buying a property in Turkey.
Checklist for Foreign Buyers
- Check the Property Type: Compulsory property insurance in Turkey (DASK) is required only for residential properties.
- Request an Active Policy: Without a valid DASK policy, the purchase transaction cannot be finalized.
- Prepare Your Tax Number (Vergi Numarası): It is mandatory for obtaining a policy in your name.
- Obtain a New Policy: The common practice is for notaries to require a new policy to be issued in the buyer’s name.
- Verify the Limit: Ensure the insurance amount (up to ~1.9 million TRY) corresponds to the property’s size and construction type.
- Consider Additional Protection: Purchase Konut Sigortası to insure your furniture and personal belongings.
- Set a Reminder: The annual renewal is your responsibility.
In conclusion, DASK insurance Turkey is an absolutely mandatory element when buying and owning a home, providing essential, vital protection against seismic risk.
This post is also available in: Български
