DASK is mandatory earthquake insurance in Turkiye. It applies to all residential properties — including those owned by foreign nationals — and it is a legal requirement, not a choice. For overseas property owners in the Fethiye region, understanding how DASK works, what it covers and how to keep it current is an essential part of responsible ownership.

What DASK Actually Is

DASK stands for Dogal Afet Sigortalari Kurumu — the Natural Disaster Insurance Institution of Turkiye. Established in 2000 following the catastrophic 1999 Marmara earthquake, it provides the legal framework for earthquake coverage on all registered residential buildings in the country. DASK covers the structure of the building against damage caused by earthquakes and earthquake-related events such as fire, explosion, tsunami and landslide. It does not cover contents, external structures such as garden walls or pools, or damage from non-earthquake events.

Who Needs It

DASK is required for every residential property with a registered address in Turkiye regardless of whether the owner is a Turkish citizen or a foreign national. Without a valid DASK policy, a property cannot receive a new utility connection, and the absence of cover creates significant legal and financial risk. For foreign property owners in Fethiye, Gocek and the surrounding region, this requirement is often overlooked — particularly for owners who do not spend extended periods at their properties and may not receive renewal reminders in an accessible way.

How Coverage and Premiums Are Calculated

DASK premiums are calculated based on the gross square meterage of the property and its construction type, mapped against a national seismic risk zone classification. Fethiye and the surrounding Mugla province fall within a designated earthquake risk area. The coverage limit is set by the government and updated periodically, applying to the structural rebuild cost rather than market value. Additional voluntary earthquake insurance can be taken out separately to cover contents and higher rebuild values beyond the DASK limit.

Renewing on Time

DASK policies are annual and must be renewed before expiry to maintain continuous cover. Missing a renewal creates a gap in coverage that cannot be backdated. NEW GENERATION Property Services handles DASK renewal coordination as part of its property management services, tracking renewal dates and arranging payment on behalf of owners. If you are unsure whether your Fethiye property has valid DASK coverage, contact our team for straightforward assistance.