Rising Flood Risks and the Future of Home Insurance
Recent floods in Brittany, France, are highlighting a growing concern for homeowners: the increasing difficulty – and potential impossibility – of securing affordable home insurance. André and Nicole Ralu, an elderly couple in Bruz near Rennes, are facing the prospect of losing their insurance coverage after experiencing their third significant flood since 1995, including two in the past year alone. Their insurer has indicated they may not renew their policy due to the repeated claims.
The Repeat Offender Problem: When Insurance Policies are Cancelled
Insurance companies generally cover initial claims, but repeated incidents raise red flags. Whereas there’s no hard limit on the number of claims a policyholder can file, insurers retain the right to terminate a contract if the risk becomes unsustainable. Marie Gorbineau, director of home insurance at L’Olivier assurances, explains that the terms of coverage remain consistent between the first and second claims, but the potential for cancellation looms with subsequent events. This is particularly concerning as climate change leads to more frequent and severe weather events.
Beyond Brittany: A Nationwide Trend?
The situation in Bruz isn’t isolated. Restaurateur Maguy Kabacinski in Pont-Réan experienced flooding for the second time in a year, raising fears about her own insurance coverage. While insurers are urging policyholders to document damage thoroughly and file claims promptly, the underlying issue of escalating risk remains. Experts suggest that insurers may respond to repeated claims not with outright cancellation, but with increased premiums.
Navigating Insurance Challenges: What are Your Options?
If an insurer does decide to terminate a policy, homeowners aren’t necessarily left without recourse. Donatien Levesque, director of claims at Direct Assurance, suggests obtaining quotes from other insurance providers. If no private insurer is willing to offer coverage, policyholders can turn to the Bureau central de tarification (BCT), a centralized tariff office, which is obligated to provide a quote. However, this option may come with higher premiums.
The Role of Catastrophe Declarations
The official declaration of a “catastrophe naturelle” (natural disaster) can impact claims processing, but it’s not a guarantee of coverage. While nine communes in Finistère were granted this designation, those affected in Ille-et-Vilaine had not received it as of February 27, 2026. Regardless, insurers advise submitting claims as quickly as possible, even before a disaster is officially declared.
Pro Tip: Document Everything
Detailed documentation is crucial when filing an insurance claim. Take photographs and videos of damaged property and the surrounding area to provide a comprehensive record of the event. The more evidence you provide, the stronger your claim will be.
FAQ: Flood Insurance and Your Coverage
Q: Can my insurance company cancel my policy after a flood?
A: Yes, they can, especially if you’ve had multiple claims.
Q: What is the Bureau central de tarification (BCT)?
A: It’s a centralized tariff office that provides insurance quotes to individuals who cannot obtain coverage from private insurers.
Q: Should I wait for a “catastrophe naturelle” declaration to file a claim?
A: No, file your claim as soon as possible.
Q: Will my insurance premiums increase after a flood?
A: Possibly. Insurers may increase premiums to reflect the increased risk.
Did you know? The frequency of flooding is increasing in many regions due to climate change, making it more difficult and expensive to insure properties in vulnerable areas.
Explore further: Learn more about preparing your home for flood season here.
Have you been affected by rising insurance costs or flood damage? Share your experience in the comments below!
