Hausratversicherung
Household Contents Insurance
[House-rat-fer-sih-cher-ung]Simple Definition
Covers damage to your movable items (furniture, clothes, electronics) due to fire, water, theft, or glass breakage. It is based on the "replacement value" of your goods. While not legally mandatory in all cantons, it is highly recommended.
Why this matters to Expats.
Some Cantons (like Vaud, Nidwalden, Fribourg, Jura) have a mandatory state fire insurance (ECA, GVA). In Zurich, it is private and voluntary. Don't underestimate the replacement cost of your wardrobe—Swiss insurance usually calculates approx. CHF 20k per room.
Actionable Intelligence
"Simple Theft Away from Home": This add-on is crucial. It covers your phone/laptop if stolen on the train or anywhere in Europe.
Sum Insured: Do not under-insure. If you claim CHF 5k but are under-insured by 50%, they only pay CHF 2.5k.
Bundle: Combine with Personal Liability (Privathaftpflicht) for a discount.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my bike covered?
Only at home. You need "Simple Theft Away from Home" for coverage in the city.
Does it cover my roommate?
If you live in a WG (shared flat), you can often share one policy, but all names must be listed.
What about my phone?
"Electro-Casco" is a separate add-on for dropped phones. Standard Hausrat only covers theft/fire.
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