DASK — Compulsory Earthquake Insurance
DASK is Türkiye's compulsory earthquake insurance. It covers physical damage to the building caused by an earthquake and its direct consequences, and is required for title deed transfers and for opening electricity and water accounts. Its cover is limited to the structure itself — your contents are not included.
Who must have it
DASK is compulsory for registered residential properties under private ownership. The obligation sits with the owner, not the tenant — though tenants often need the policy too, since it is requested when opening utility accounts.
In buildings under condominium ownership a separate policy is issued for each independent unit. Shared areas of the building are included proportionally in the unit policies.
When the policy is requested
- Title deed purchase, sale and transfer
- Opening an electricity account
- Opening a water account
- Taking out a mortgage — the bank also requires a separate home insurance policy
Why the price is the same everywhere
The DASK premium is not set by agencies. It follows a state tariff calculated from the property's earthquake risk zone, its construction type and its gross floor area. For the same property, every agency quotes the same premium.
Since price is fixed, what differs between agencies is speed, correct calculation and support at claim time. A policy issued with the wrong floor area or construction type leads to a reduced payout when you claim.
Is DASK enough on its own?
DASK is important cover but not sufficient by itself. Its scope is limited to the building, and the amount it pays is capped at a maximum sum insured that is revised annually. If your property is worth more than that cap, the difference is yours to carry.
Contents, non-earthquake risks such as fire, water damage and theft, and temporary accommodation after an earthquake are all outside DASK. Those require a separate home insurance policy — and taken together, the combined cost is lower than most people expect.
Frequently asked questions
Is DASK compulsory for foreign property owners in Türkiye?
Yes. The obligation follows the property, not the nationality of the owner. If you own a registered residential property in Türkiye, DASK is compulsory and will be requested at title deed and utility transactions.
Does DASK cover my furniture and belongings?
No. DASK covers physical damage to the building only. Furniture, appliances and electronics are excluded — those require a home insurance policy.
Does the price differ between agencies?
No. The premium follows a state tariff based on risk zone, construction type and gross floor area. It is identical at every agency for the same property.
I bought a property — is the previous owner's policy transferred?
Depending on the remaining term, the policy may be transferable or a new one may be required. Send us the title deed details and we will check and tell you which applies.
Can I arrange it without being in Türkiye?
Yes. The policy can be issued remotely from your title deed and property details, and delivered as a PDF. You can write to us in English.
DASK — Compulsory Earthquake Insurance
DASK earthquake insurance for property owners in Türkiye: who must have it, what it covers, how the premium is set and why you also need home insurance.