How to choose the best pet insurance in Spain as an expat
If you’re an expat living in Spain, you’ve probably already felt this: you think you’re fully insured, but when something actually happens — a break-in, a water leak, or a medical emergency — you suddenly learn your policy doesn’t cover what you thought it did. This is one of the most common and expensive surprises for people moving abroad.
Here’s the quick answer: the biggest mistakes come from not understanding Spanish insurance terms, choosing the cheapest option without checking exclusions, and assuming your home country cover applies in Spain. To avoid problems, you need clear explanations in English, proper protection tailored to your lifestyle, and an insurer experienced in expats insurance in Spain.
This article breaks down the mistakes most expats make, why they happen, and exactly how you can avoid them — so you can choose the right insurance with confidence and avoid costly surprises.
Why expats often make insurance mistakes in Spain
Buying insurance in a new country is confusing. Different regulations, unfamiliar terminology, and language barriers create misunderstandings that can leave you unprotected when you need help most.
The goal isn’t just to buy a policy — it’s to make sure it works when you actually need it.
The most common mistakes expats make (and how to avoid them)
1. Choosing insurance based only on price
Many expats compare quotes and pick the cheapest option. But low-cost policies often include:
- High deductibles
- Limited coverage
- Exclusions hidden in the fine print
How to avoid it:
Compare value, not only price. A slightly higher premium can save you thousands during a claim.
2. Assuming your home-country insurance covers you abroad
This is a major misunderstanding. A UK, US or EU policy usually does not protect your property or liability in Spain.
How to avoid it:
Always get cover designed for Spain. Expats insurance is built around Spanish laws, local risks and required protections.
3. Not understanding exclusions and limitations
Exclusions are the number one reason claims get rejected. Many expats don’t know what’s not covered.
Common exclusions include:
- Wear-and-tear damage
- Old or unreported leaks
- Non-registered locks or security systems
- High-value items not declared
- Pre-existing damage
How to avoid it:
Ask for a clear, plain-English explanation of exclusions before buying.
4. Using incorrect or incomplete property details
Some expats rush through the application and give estimates or vague information. Later, this creates problems during claims.
Examples:
- Wrong square metres
- Incorrect value of contents
- Not declaring a second home
- Missing details on renovations
How to avoid it:
Give accurate information. If you’re unsure, ask your insurer to guide you.
5. Not updating your policy after changes
Your insurance needs change over time — but many expats forget to update their policy when:
- They renovate
- They buy new valuables
- They rent out a part of the home
- They add security systems
- They move to another region
How to avoid it:
Review your policy once a year or after any important change.
6. Ignoring required liability insurance
Spain has specific rules about civil liability, especially for:
- Homeowners
- Pet owners
- Short-term rentals
Some regions even require liability insurance by law.
How to avoid it:
Check whether your lifestyle or region requires liability cover. Make sure it’s included in your expats insurance policy.
7. Not checking claim procedures
Many expats only discover how complicated a claim can be when it’s too late.
Issues include:
- No English-speaking support
- Slow responses
- Missing documents
- Misunderstood deadlines
How to avoid it:
Choose an insurer that explains the claims process clearly and supports you in English.
8. Taking out a policy without English documentation
Insurers may provide a Spanish version only. This leads to misunderstandings and rejected claims.
How to avoid it:
Always request English policies and English customer service.
9. Forgetting about coverage for temporary absences
If you travel frequently, your property may be considered “unoccupied,” which can limit cover.
How to avoid it:
Choose insurance that allows long periods away or matches your travel patterns.
10. Not working with a specialist in expat insurance
General insurers may not understand the specific needs of foreigners living in Spain.
How to avoid it:
Choose a provider with proven experience in expats insurance in Spain, ideally one that handles everything in English and understands expat lifestyles.
Extra tips to choose the right insurance in Spain
Compare cover, not marketing
Check limits, deductibles and claims history.
Make sure the value of your home is correct
Underinsuring leads to reduced payouts.
Ask about water-damage protection
It’s one of the most common claims in Spain.
Confirm theft and break-in cover
Some areas require specific locks or security systems.
Choose an insurer that explains everything in English
This avoids mistakes that happen simply because you misunderstood a sentence.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need insurance as an expat in Spain?
If you own a home or rent long-term, yes — it protects your belongings, liability and financial peace of mind.
Are Spanish insurance policies very different from UK or US ones?
Yes. Coverage expectations, legal requirements and exclusions are not the same. That’s why specialised expats insurance is essential.
What insurance do most expats choose?
Home insurance with liability, strong water-damage cover and protection for contents.
Can I insure a second home in Spain?
Yes, but you need a policy designed for non-permanent occupancy.
How The Insurance Centre helps expats get the right cover
At The Insurance Centre, we specialise in helping expatriates navigate Spanish insurance easily and safely. We offer:
- Clear explanations in English
- Help choosing the right cover
- Policies tailored for expat needs
- Fast, friendly support
- No confusing Spanish terminology
We take the stress out of protecting your home, belongings and peace of mind.
Avoiding these mistakes is simple when you know what to look for. Now you understand the most common problems expats face — and how to avoid them before they cost you time, money or security.
If you want personalised advice or a no-obligation quote, our team at The Insurance Centre is ready to help you choose the right protection with confidence.
About Our Team
At The Insurance Centre, we’ve been helping clients since 1999 with friendly, professional, and multilingual insurance services tailored especially for expatriates in Spain. We work with top-tier, reputable insurance providers and have proudly received awards for excellence in customer service and expat insurance for the past 10 years.
We are fully registered with the Dirección General de Seguros (DGS) and are members of the Colegio de Mediadores. Our team speaks English, Spanish, French, and Swedish, ensuring clear and confident communication with clients from around the world.
