Bicycle Theft: Documents & Deadlines for Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, a bicycle theft can quickly cause organizational stress and financial loss. This guide explains which documents you should collect immediately, which deadlines apply for reports and insurance claims, and what official steps are typical. I provide practical examples for police reports, damage notifications to liability or household insurance, and sample wordings for messages to property management. The aim is that you meet deadlines, secure claims and avoid unnecessary mistakes. Use the sample letters and the checklist to act quickly and confidently.

Which documents do I need?

• Police report (written, ideally with a reference number).^[1]
• Evidence photos of the scene and damaged locks; note date and time.
• Purchase receipt, invoice or bike passport to establish value.
• Damage notification to liability or household insurer including bank details and claim amount.
• Notice to property management if the bike was stored in common areas or on the property.

Deadlines and important dates

• File a police report as soon as possible, ideally within 48 hours of discovery.
• Inform your insurer within the timeframe stated in your policy; often "immediately" or within a few days is required.
• Keep receipts and evidence until final resolution; statutory deadlines may apply for civil claims.^[2]

How-To

1. Report to the police: Visit your local station or use the online portal, describe place, time and circumstances.
2. Secure photos and evidence: Photograph the parking spot, damaged locks and collect witness statements.
3. Notify the insurer: Send a full claim with photos, receipt and police report to your insurer.
4. Inform your landlord: Notify property management if common areas or contract rules are affected.
5. Keep all documents: Store every document, email and receipt until the matter is closed.

FAQ

Who bears the loss if my bike is stolen from the cellar?

It depends on the individual case: Check the rental agreement for responsibility for the storage location and notify your household or liability insurer; landlord recourse may also be possible.

Do I always have to inform the police?

Yes, a police report is usually a prerequisite for insurance benefits and later civil proceedings.

What deadlines apply for the insurer?

Deadlines are in your insurance terms; report damages as early as possible and keep receipts ready.

How-To

1. File a police report and note the reference number.
2. Take photos and name witnesses.
3. Report the damage to your insurer and submit documents.
4. Notify the landlord if common areas are involved.
5. Keep all documentation.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — Gesetze im Internet
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) — Court information
• Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) — Information on theft

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Informationen zu Gerichten in Deutschland — Justizportal
4. [4] Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) — Information on theft