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Learn more which policies are required in Norway with a Mortgage (Boliglån), what Homeowners and Tenants need, and how Home Insurance (Hjemforsikring) and Liability Insurance (Ansvarsforsikring) protect your property.
If your property in Norway isn’t secured with a Mortgage (Boliglån), home insurance is not required by law. However, protecting your home and peace of mind—whether you're an owner or a tenant—should always be a priority, advises Lukasz Jakubow, founder of the Oslo-based wealth advisory firm SJØLYST INVESTORS AS.
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A Matter of Financial Prudence, Not Legal Obligation
Unlike in some EU Countries, Norwegian legislation does not impose a blanket obligation to insure your home. Yet, most financial and legal experts agree: forgoing home insurance is a risky decision in a country where natural forces—storms, flooding, and fires—can cause significant damage.
HOME INSURANCE (Hjemforsikring) offers crucial protection against unexpected events such as fire, flooding, burglary, vandalism, and natural disasters. Most policies also include liability coverage (Ansvarsforsikring), protecting you if you cause injury to others or damage someone else’s property.
“A single incident of water damage or fire can cost hundreds of thousands of kroner. Insurance remains the most efficient risk transfer mechanism for Norwegian households”, says Lukasz.
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Mortgage Holders: A Legal Requirement
While not universally mandatory, home insurance becomes compulsory when you finance your property with a mortgage.
All Norwegian banks require valid Building Insurance (Eiendomsforsikring) before granting a home loan. Without it, the financing process will not move forward.
What Type of Coverage Do You Need?
The right policy depends on your housing status—owner or tenant—and the type of property you live in.
1. Eiendomsforsikring – Building Insurance
Covers the structure itself, including walls, roof, and installations. It’s essential for homeowners, particularly those with detached houses or semi-detached properties.
2. Innbo- og løsøreforsikring – Contents Insurance
Protects personal belongings such as furniture, electronics, and clothing from theft, fire, or water damage. Even tenants benefit from this coverage.
3. Ansvarsforsikring – Liability Insurance
Vital for tenants and owners alike. It covers the cost of accidental damage you cause to others—for example, flooding a neighbor’s apartment.
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Tenants: Liability Insurance Is Often Mandatory
If you rent a home, liability insurance is not just advisable—it’s often required. Landlords increasingly demand proof of valid insurance before signing a lease, as it protects both sides from unforeseen disputes. Failing to provide it may lead to contract termination or financial liability in case of damage.
Owners in Sameie and Borettslag
If you own an apartment in a SAMEIE (Joint Ownership) or Borettslag (Housing Cooperative), the management board typically insures the building itself—facade, structure, and shared areas.
However, you remain responsible for:
Your Home Contents Insurance
Your Home Liability Insurance
Many housing associations explicitly require proof of such coverage for residents. It’s worth checking the internal bylaws (Vedtekter) before moving in.
Recommended Coverage by Housing Type – Summary
If you own a detached house, it’s recommended to have Eiendomsforsikring (Building Insurance) combined with Ansvarsforsikring (liability insurance).
If you are an apartment owner in a sameie or borettslag, you should consider Innbo- og løsøreforsikring (Contents and Personal Property Insurance) along with Ansvarsforsikring.
For tenants, Innbo- og løsøreforsikring is essential, and Ansvarsforsikring is mandatory to cover any liability for damage to the property or third parties.
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If you are a Homeowner with a MORTGAGE (Boliglån), Eiendomsforsikring (Building Insurance) is mandatory, as required by all Norwegian banks before granting a home loan.
Skipping home insurance may appear to save money in the short term, but it exposes you to major financial risks. In a country where natural conditions can change rapidly, a solid policy is not merely a formality—it’s a strategic investment in security and peace of mind.
