New rules for Türkiye’s compulsory earthquake insurance, DASK, will come into effect on 5 September 2026. The changes will affect property owners and buyers when completing transactions at the Land Registry Office, known as TAPU.
After a property is sold, the existing DASK policy issued in the previous owner’s name will no longer be transferred to the buyer. The insurance contract will terminate on the date the new owner is officially registered in the land registry.
The buyer will be required to obtain a separate DASK policy in their own name. During the transfer of ownership, officials at the TAPU office or another authorised institution will verify that the new owner has valid insurance. Buyers are therefore advised to arrange the new policy before completing the transaction.
The seller will be able to receive a partial refund of the insurance premium paid for the remaining policy period. To request a refund, the seller must contact the insurance company or agency that issued the policy. The amount will be calculated based on the unused days of insurance coverage.
The new rules apply to property sales and similar transactions involving a change of ownership. In cases of inheritance and other transfers not related to a sale, the existing policy may remain valid. The new owner must notify the insurance company of the change within 15 days.
Property buyers in Türkiye completing transactions after 5 September should arrange a new DASK policy in advance when preparing their documents. Sellers are advised to contact their insurer after the ownership transfer has been registered and request a refund for the unused policy period.