After two major earthquakes measuring 7.7 and 7.6 centered in Kahramanmaraş, ten provinces suffered extensive destruction. The region experienced tens of thousands of fatalities and the collapse of many buildings; search and rescue operations continue in the affected areas.
As with every major quake, discussions about necessary precautions and measures have already begun. There is also widespread interest in the steps to be taken going forward. One key financial protection against earthquakes is Compulsory Earthquake Insurance (Zorunlu Deprem Sigortası, ZDS), and many want details about how it works. The Natural Disaster Insurance Institution (DASK) continues efforts aimed at achieving 100% insurance coverage.
REPORTING DAMAGE IS ESSENTIAL
While rescue teams are working in the ten affected provinces, recovery efforts to address immediate needs are also underway. Many questions remain about DASK and the damage claims process. If a dwelling covered by Compulsory Earthquake Insurance is damaged, the policyholder must first notify DASK through the designated reporting channels. Reports can be submitted via DASK’s 125 call center, the “dask.gov.tr” website, or through the e‑Government (e-Devlet) portal.
HOW DOES THE DASK PROCESS WORK?
Once damage is reported for a building covered by DASK, a damage file is opened. The report generates a file number that is sent by SMS, and this number can be used to track progress. Independent damage assessors appointed by DASK carry out damage inspections. After the assessment is completed, any approved compensation is paid directly by DASK.
WHAT DAMAGES ARE NOT COVERED?
Certain items and losses are excluded from the insurance coverage. Removal of debris, loss of profit, business interruption, loss of rental income, and movable property or personal belongings are not covered, and no compensation is paid for these items. Claims for bodily injury, including death, and claims for moral or non-pecuniary damages also fall outside the scope of Compulsory Earthquake Insurance.
WHAT IS THE 2023 COVERAGE LIMIT?
For 2023, the maximum coverage amount for homes damaged by an earthquake was set at 640,000 Turkish lira. Following the recent catastrophic earthquakes, further details regarding DASK coverage and procedures are expected to be clarified in the coming period.