Mandatory Earthquake Insurance (DASK) and Other

Turkey is located on one of the world's most active fault lines and is constantly exposed to the risk of earthquakes. To manage this risk, the Turkish government has introduced two types of insurance: the mandatory earthquake insurance, or DASK, and the optional property insurance, or Konut Sigortası. Understanding the difference between these two is essential for any homeowner or tenant in Turkey.   

All About Mandatory Earthquake Insurance (DASK)

What is DASK and Why is it Mandatory?

DASK (Mandatory Earthquake Insurance) is a type of policy that is mandatory for all residential properties within Turkey's municipal boundaries. Its purpose is to reduce the financial burden of earthquakes on citizens and the government. This insurance covers direct damages from earthquakes up to a specified limit and is based on Law No. 6305.   

What Damages are Covered by DASK?

DASK covers direct damages to the building caused by earthquakes and related natural disasters, including fire, explosion, tsunami, and landslide. This coverage includes the main structural components of the building such as foundations, main walls, roofs, floors, and staircases.   

What Damages are NOT Covered by DASK?

DASK does not cover the following damages:   

• Debris removal costs
• Damage to furniture and personal belongings
• Financial losses like loss of income or rent
• Bodily harm or death
• Damages resulting from structural defects over time

These limitations show that DASK is only for the building's structure and does not provide supplementary coverage.

Which Buildings Must Have DASK?

DASK is mandatory for most residential buildings, including homes with a registered title deed, independent units in multi-unit buildings, and cooperative homes. However, certain buildings are exempt, such as rural buildings, dilapidated or abandoned buildings, and those built against regulations or marked for demolition.   

How is DASK Obtained?

To get DASK, you need to provide information such as the policyholder's identity details, the exact property address, title deed information, and building specifications (year of construction, size, and type of structure).

The DASK premium is calculated by the government based on the gross area, structure type, and the property's location. DASK is also required for transferring water and electricity subscriptions to your name.   

An Overview of Optional Property Insurance (Konut Sigortası)

What is Property Insurance and How Does It Differ from DASK?

Unlike DASK, which is mandatory and limited to earthquake damages, property insurance or Konut Sigortası is an optional policy with much broader coverage. It protects the building and its contents against a wide range of risks, including fire, theft, flood, and other unforeseen events. DASK is a minimal solution, while property insurance is a comprehensive one.   

What is Covered by Property Insurance?

Property insurance typically covers risks like fire, theft, flood, storm, and glass breakage. You can also add important supplementary coverages, such as damage to household furniture and earthquake damages that exceed the DASK limit. This insurance can also cover incidental costs like temporary accommodation.   

Is Property Insurance Mandatory? Whose Responsibility is it?

Property insurance is not legally mandatory, but some banks may require it for mortgage loans. The responsibility for obtaining this insurance lies with the individual. A homeowner can get it to cover the building and their belongings, while a tenant can get it to protect their personal belongings.   

DASK vs. Property Insurance: A Comprehensive and Practical Comparison

To understand the key differences, here is a comparison of the two insurances.

Mandatory Earthquake Insurance (DASK) vs. Optional Property Insurance (Konut Sigortası)

• Legal Status: DASK is mandatory , while property insurance is optional.   
• Coverage Scope: DASK only covers direct earthquake damages to the building , while property insurance covers a wide range of risks like fire, flood, and theft.   
• Contents Coverage: DASK does not cover furniture , but property insurance can include contents coverage.   
• Premium: The DASK premium is a standardized government rate , while the property insurance premium is variable and depends on the company and chosen coverages.   
• Cancellation: DASK is a mandatory insurance and cannot be canceled , but property insurance can be.   
• Substitution: Property insurance cannot substitute for DASK , as they are complementary.   

How Do These Two Insurances Complement Each Other?

DASK has a specific limit for compensation. If the damage exceeds the DASK limit, property insurance (if it includes earthquake coverage) can cover the remainder. Thus, having both insurances provides comprehensive coverage that protects you and your assets from a wide range of risks.   

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Summary

In short, DASK is the first and most important step for any homeowner in Turkey, as it is a legal requirement and provides basic coverage against earthquake damages. However, due to its limitations, it does not offer complete protection for all your assets. For full protection and peace of mind, it is recommended to get property insurance (Konut Sigortası) in addition to DASK. These two insurances complement each other and provide comprehensive coverage against both natural and man-made risks.