Exterior Insurance for Tenants in Germany

Many tenants in Germany look for budget-friendly ways to protect household items and valuables located outside their apartment. An exterior insurance can supplement household insurance to cover items like bicycles, garden tools, patio furniture or cellar contents. This article explains in plain language when exterior insurance is sensible for tenants, which damages are typically covered and how you can save costs. You will receive practical tips for comparing offers, documenting damage and important deadlines. We also list official authorities and template forms that can be relevant in disputes or a termination. Read on to make a budget-friendly and legally sound choice for protecting your belongings in Germany.

What is exterior insurance?

Exterior insurance usually extends the protection of a household policy to items outside the rented apartment, such as in the bicycle cellar, on the balcony or in shared rooms. It can cover theft, vandalism or weather-related damage. The legal basis for landlord and tenant duties in the rental agreement can be found in the BGB, especially regarding maintenance and use of the rented property ^[1].

When is it worthwhile for tenants?

• If valuable items such as e-bikes or high-quality garden furniture are regularly kept outside the apartment.
• If the bicycle cellar or shared room is insufficiently secured and there is a theft risk.
• If your household insurance provides no or only limited exterior coverage.
• If landlords do not assume liability for certain areas and you want to protect your property yourself.

Coverage and exclusions

Coverage and exclusions vary widely by provider. Important points include:

• Insured perils (theft, burglary, storm damage, water damage, etc.).
• Coverage limits per item and overall limits.
• Security requirements (e.g., lock requirements, proper storage).
• Exclusions for gross negligence or when items are left unattended in publicly accessible places.

If in doubt, template forms such as termination letters or damage reports can help; official templates and forms are provided by the Federal Ministry of Justice ^[2].

How to choose budget-friendly

Choosing budget-friendly means assessing real needs, adjusting coverage limits and avoiding unnecessary extras. Compare several offers, pay attention to deductibles, annual premiums and special coverages like e-bike protection. Small savings measures — higher deductibles, bundle offers with household insurance or discounts for one-time payment — reduce premiums without large loss of protection.

FAQ

Does exterior insurance also cover bicycle theft outside the cellar?

That depends on the tariff: some policies only reimburse bicycle theft if stored in a locked room or secured in a specific way; check the terms carefully.

Can the landlord require exterior insurance?

The landlord can agree rental contract rules in individual cases, but general obligations to insure property are usually not solely enforceable by the landlord; check your rental agreement and consult the local court if in doubt ^[3].

How quickly must I report a claim?

Report claims to your insurer immediately and document evidence; reporting deadlines are specified in the insurance conditions.

How-To

1. Identify which items are regularly stored or used outside the apartment.
2. Compare at least three offers regarding coverage limits and deductibles.
3. Check specifically for coverage of bicycles, e-bikes and cellar contents.
4. Ask about bundle tariffs with your household insurance to obtain discounts.
5. Document value, serial number and condition of important items before signing the contract.
6. If disputing, submit documents to the competent local court or seek official advice.

Help and Support

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a
• Template forms and service of the Federal Ministry of Justice
• Federal Court of Justice: case law and leading decisions

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1. [1] Gesetze im Internet: Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — §§ 535–580a
2. [2] Bundesministerium der Justiz: Template forms and service
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice: decisions in tenancy law