Avoiding Key Loss for Tenants in Germany
What to do if you lose your keys?
As a student in Germany, a lost apartment key can quickly lead to stress and high costs. Many tenants do not know which steps are important now: promptly inform the landlord, document the loss, notify the police if theft is suspected, and check whether liability or household insurance covers costs. Common mistakes are waiting aimlessly, incorrect behavior toward the landlord, and missing proof for replacement expenses. Read the following guidance to avoid typical mistakes and protect your rights as a tenant.
Immediate actions
- Inform the landlord immediately, in writing by email or letter; note the time and content of the notification.
- Search carefully and check access before hiring expensive services.
- If theft is suspected, inform the police and have a report filed.
- Obtain offers from reputable locksmiths and check invoices and scope of service.
- Collect and keep receipts, photos and notes of times and events.
Liability, lock changes and costs
In principle: as a tenant, you are obliged to handle the rented property with care. If a key is lost and a third party could gain access to the living space, replacing the lock may be necessary. Whether you must pay depends on the cause and contractual provisions. In disputes over costs, the local court (Amtsgericht) is often competent; in higher instances the regional court or the Federal Court of Justice decides.[2] For tenancy duties and rights, consult the relevant provisions of the German Civil Code (BGB) on landlord and tenant obligations.[1]
Insurance: liability and household
Check your insurance terms immediately. Many private liability policies can cover costs for lock replacement or key replacement in cases of loss or theft if a liability obligation arises. Household insurance typically covers stolen items from the home but usually does not cover simple key loss without a break-in. Report every damage to your insurer and submit all receipts; request the insurer's "claims form" and complete it fully.
Practical mistakes to avoid
- Not informing: Do not wait until the landlord or others discover the issue.
- No documentation: Without proof you have worse chances with insurers or court.
- Unvetted locksmiths: Compare multiple offers and check prices.
- Replacing locks independently without agreement: Clarify cost coverage first.
Forms and sample letters
Important forms and templates you may need:
- Claims form for the insurer: request your insurer's form and submit invoices and receipts.
- Police report: if theft is suspected, have a report filed and note the file number.
- Sample letter to the landlord: short, factual, dated; request written confirmation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who pays for a lock change if I lose my key?
- It depends on cause, contractual rules and insurance. Often the tenant pays if negligence occurred; in case of theft liability or household insurance may apply. In doubt a court decides.[1]
- Do I have to inform the landlord immediately?
- Yes. Inform the landlord immediately in writing so joint measures (e.g., lock change) can be discussed and deadlines met.
- Does my private liability insurance help with key loss?
- Some liability policies cover costs for key replacement or lock change; check your policy and file a claim.
How-To
- Calm down and note details: record time and circumstances, search systematically.
- Inform the landlord: send an email or letter and request acknowledgement.
- Contact the police: file a report if theft is suspected and note the file number.
- Inform your insurer: complete the claims form, attach receipts and invoices.
- Hire a locksmith: compare quotes, keep the invoice and clarify who will pay.
Key Takeaways
- Inform and document immediately to secure claims.
- Check liability and household insurance before paying large sums.
- Keep all receipts and the police report.
Help and Support / Resources
- Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a
- Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
- Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Information
