We live in a country where earthquakes are a reality. This is not a fact we should fear.
It is a reality we should understand and prepare for. Because of the geological structure of the land we live on,
these regions have witnessed many major earthquakes throughout history. For that reason, instead of ignoring earthquakes,
it is essential to learn how to live with this risk and take steps that reduce potential losses.
The first and most important precaution against earthquakes is, of course, living in a safe building.
But living in a strong building alone is not always enough. Earthquakes can threaten lives and also cause serious financial damage.
That is exactly where Compulsory Earthquake Insurance, known in Turkey as DASK, comes in.
What Is Compulsory Earthquake Insurance?
Compulsory Earthquake Insurance is a public insurance system managed by the Natural Catastrophe Insurance Pool in Turkey (DASK).
It provides financial protection for residential buildings against earthquake related material damage.
Its main goal is to cover part of the losses after an earthquake, ease the financial burden on homeowners,
and reduce the economic pressure on the state after major disasters.
DASK does not only cover the earthquake itself, but also certain risks that directly result from it.
Fires, explosions, landslides, and tsunami events triggered by an earthquake can also be included within the coverage scope.
In this way, the economic impact of severe structural damage is reduced as much as possible.
Is Earthquake Insurance Mandatory?
Yes. In Turkey, earthquake insurance is legally mandatory. This requirement is regulated under Law No. 6305 on Natural Disaster Insurance,
and it is the responsibility of property owners.
If you do not have Compulsory Earthquake Insurance:
- You may not be able to open electricity, water, or natural gas subscriptions
- Land registry (title deed) transactions may not be completed
- Home purchase and sale processes may not be finalized
- You may face issues during official procedures
- If an earthquake occurs, you may have no financial protection for structural losses
For this reason, DASK is more than a personal preference. It is both a legal requirement and a social responsibility.
What Does DASK Earthquake Insurance Cover?
Compulsory Earthquake Insurance protects the building’s structural system and integrity.
The main items included in coverage are:
- Building foundation
- Load bearing columns and beams
- Main walls
- Ceilings and floor slabs
- Staircases
- Elevators
- Roof structure
- Chimneys
- Shared area walls
Earthquake related damage is compensated up to the coverage limit stated in the policy.
This helps homeowners avoid facing major financial losses alone after a disaster.
What Does Earthquake Insurance Not Cover?
Compulsory Earthquake Insurance covers the building itself, not the belongings inside it.
Household items and non structural losses are outside the scope of DASK. For example:
- Furniture
- White goods (major appliances)
- Electronic devices
- Loss of rental income
- Debris removal costs
- Non material (moral) damages
If you want protection for these risks, you need a separate home insurance policy.
DASK and home insurance are different products that complement each other.
Buildings Excluded from DASK Coverage
Not every building is eligible for Compulsory Earthquake Insurance. The main reason is that some structures are not insurable
due to legal status, technical conditions, or safety concerns.
First, public buildings owned by the state and used for public services are not included in the DASK system.
State owned residences and public facilities are excluded.
Buildings located in village settlement areas and constructed by people registered to village populations are generally not subject to compulsory coverage.
These structures may be excluded because they are often outside standard zoning and development regulations.
Buildings used entirely for commercial or industrial purposes are also outside DASK coverage.
Factories, workshops, production facilities, and buildings dedicated to commercial activity require different insurance products.
Buildings without an official project, built without engineering services, or not inspected through building supervision systems may not be insured.
Because structural safety cannot be scientifically verified, risk calculation is not possible.
Additionally, buildings that have undergone structural alterations that damage the load bearing system, such as cut columns,
or any intervention that disrupts the building’s static balance, are excluded from coverage.
Buildings with demolition orders issued by authorized institutions, as well as neglected, abandoned, or uninhabitable buildings
that have reached the end of their service life, are also not covered.
Where Can You Get Earthquake Insurance?
Getting Compulsory Earthquake Insurance is straightforward. Today, a policy can be issued quickly through multiple channels.
You can obtain DASK through:
- Insurance agencies
- Bank branches
- Online insurance platforms
- Mobile applications
How Do You Get Earthquake Insurance?
Applying for DASK does not require a complicated process. With the information below, you can get a policy in minutes:
- Title deed details
- Address code
- Gross square meters of the home
- Year of construction
- Number of floors
- Building type
- Identity information of the policyholder
If you already had a policy before, you can renew it using only the policy number.
How Long Is DASK Valid?
Compulsory Earthquake Insurance is valid for one year. Once it expires, it must be renewed.
Policies are not renewed automatically, so it is important to track the expiration date.
You can easily view your policy details and validity period through the e Government portal.
The Simplest but Most Effective Precaution
An earthquake is a reality that will happen, even though we do not know exactly when. We cannot change that reality,
but we can reduce its consequences. Compulsory Earthquake Insurance is one of the most basic and effective steps you can take.
DASK is not just an insurance policy. It is a form of protection, responsibility, and a conscious choice for safer living.
A small step taken today can prevent a major loss tomorrow.
For up to date information about Compulsory Earthquake Insurance, you can visit the official website:
dask.gov.tr