Are the shutters on my French house essential for insurance?

Reader Question: I have bought a second home in the south of France, but it does not have shutters installed. Will insurance companies require me to install them? 

There are no general laws which require shutters to be put in place in homes in France, and it is generally speaking up to the owner whether they want to add, keep, or remove shutters from their home.

However, note that in some cases, properties which already have shutters must be maintained in a certain way to keep in line with local cultural heritage rules. 

Read more: Do I need to declare changes to shutters at my French house?

Check your policy about shutters

In terms of insurance, however, you should check your policy, as this is on a case-by-case basis.

In some cases insurers may ask you to install shutters as part of the rules for cover against theft or against storm damage. 

You should note that some insurers differentiate between different types of shutters (including based on material), so ensure the type you install are compliant.

In many cases, traditional full shutters (volets pleins), or metallic ones, are seen as good choices by insurers.

In general, not having them can raise the cost of your premium, as they are seen by insurers as an additional safety feature.

Additional rules on the use of the shutters may be part of the policy, for example closing them if you leave your property for more than 24 hours.

If you fail to comply with these rules, you may not be covered in the event of a burglary, or receive a much-reduced amount of compensation.

Note that in co-ownership buildings such as blocks of flats, it is usually necessary to seek approval from the other owners at the annual general meeting to remove or install shutters, as it may change the external appearance of the building.