Check External Coverage: Tenants in Germany
As a tenant or student in Germany you should check whether your liability or household insurance also applies outside the apartment. External coverage protects items you use temporarily outside your home or keep there—for example a laptop in a cafe, a bicycle in front of the university, or luggage while traveling. Many policies have limits, exclusions or reporting deadlines; students often face special situations like shared flats, subletting or short stays abroad. This article explains in plain language what external coverage means, which forms and evidence you need, when the insurer pays, and how you as a tenant can collect evidence and file claims correctly. Read your policy carefully, report damage immediately and keep records. In case of disputes the local court (Amtsgericht) or legal advice can help.
What is external coverage?
External coverage is an extension of household or liability insurance that protects property or liability damages when they occur outside the insured living spaces. For tenants and students it is important whether shared rooms, bicycles in front of the building or electronics on trips are included. Check your terms and coverage limits.
When does external coverage apply?
Typical cases where external coverage is relevant:
- Bicycle theft on campus or in front of the house.
- Notebook or smartphone stolen or damaged while on the go.
- Luggage loss or damage during travel.
Important are coverage limits, deductibles and exclusions (e.g. gross negligence).
How to prepare claims correctly
Collect evidence promptly and inform the insurer in writing. Note place, time and circumstances of the event and any witnesses.
- Photos, receipts and serial numbers of the item as evidence.
- Written damage report and completed insurer forms.
- Overview of requested reimbursements and, if applicable, cost estimates.
- Observe deadlines: many policies require reporting within short periods.
Forms and official templates
As a tenant you should know and use the following official forms and templates:
- Termination letter template (Federal Ministry of Justice) — Use: when you must terminate a lease due to insurance-related issues; example: timely termination if the dwelling becomes permanently uninhabitable.
- Reference to duties under the BGB[1] — Use: to assess landlord duties for defects and as basis for rent reduction questions.
- Procedural guidance under the ZPO[2] — Use: if legal action at the local court becomes necessary (e.g. eviction or payment claims).
Objections, lawsuits and competent courts
If the insurer refuses payment, check the reasons and file an objection. Tenant law disputes are first handled by the local court (Amtsgericht); appeals go to the regional court. For precedent issues the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) can be relevant.[3]
FAQ
- Does external coverage always apply if my bicycle is stolen in front of the university?
- Not automatically. It depends on your policy, coverage scope, storage circumstances and possible deductibles. Document the theft and report it immediately.
- What should I do if the insurer rejects my claim?
- Request a written explanation, file an objection and collect evidence; consider legal action at the local court if necessary.
- Which deadlines are important?
- Reports should be made immediately; many insurers require notification within days or weeks. Check your policy closely.
How-To
- Document: take photos and collect receipts.
- Inform insurer: send a written damage report to the company.
- Submit forms: fill out and submit official damage forms completely.
- If disputed: file objection and prepare for court at the local court.
Key Takeaways
- Read your insurance conditions carefully before a claim.
- Secure evidence and witness statements immediately after an incident.
- Observe reporting deadlines exactly to avoid losing rights.
Help and Support / Resources
- Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) - §§ 535–580a
- Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
- Federal Court of Justice (BGH) - Decisions
