Household Insurance Checklist for Renters in Germany

As a student or renter in Germany it is important to review your household insurance and personal liability coverage. This checklist helps you make quick decisions: which items are insured, how are claims compensated, and which exclusions apply to valuables or electronic devices? Pay attention to deductibles, rules for moving, and whether subletting or roommates are covered. Record inventory, take photos and keep purchase receipts. In case of burglary, water damage or fire describe the damage precisely and report it within the deadlines. The following steps explain how to compare policies, report claims correctly and which official forms and courts may become relevant. This guide considers common situations for students in shared flats and during moves.

What students should check

Review the policy carefully and systematically. Pay attention to the points below and keep documents ready.

• Compare insured sum and new-for-old replacement
• Check scope of coverage for moving or temporary absence
• Weigh deductible and premium costs
• Verify coverage for electronics and valuables
• Check liability benefits for personal and property damage
• Read exclusions (e.g. gross negligence, intent)
• Note reporting deadlines and claim submission procedures
• Check special rules for roommates or subletting

Important details and forms

Household policies are voluntary but protect against financial consequences from burglary, water damage or fire. Detailed information on household insurance is provided by the financial supervisory authority BaFin^[1]. For tenancy rights and duties see §§ 535–580a of the German Civil Code (BGB)^[2]. If a legal dispute arises, the local court (Amtsgericht) is responsible; information about local jurisdiction is available on state justice portals^[3].

• Termination letter / sample notice (example: written notice when moving). Example: include date, policy number, reason for termination and signature.
• Claim notification to the insurer (in writing with photos). Example: list damaged items, value, purchase date and attach photos.
• Lawsuit forms for eviction or tenancy disputes (filed at court). Example: submit a short statement of facts, evidence and claim.

In case of damage: secure evidence (photos, witnesses), report burglary to the police and your insurer immediately, and keep original receipts. If the insurer refuses payment, document communications and consider legal action.

FAQ

Do I need household insurance as a student?

Household insurance is not legally required, but highly recommended: it replaces stolen or damaged items and provides financial protection after fire, water damage or burglary.

What does liability cover compared to household insurance?

Private liability covers damage you cause to others; household insurance covers damage to your own belongings in your home.

How do I report a claim correctly?

Photograph the damage, note the time and circumstances, submit the claim form to your insurer and keep all receipts.

How-To

1. Take inventory: collect photos, serial numbers and receipts.
2. Read the policy: check coverage, deductible and exclusions.
3. Report the claim: complete the claim form and send supporting documents.
4. Keep deadlines: respond promptly to insurer requests.
5. If disputed, collect documents and consider legal advice or court.

Help and Support / Resources

• BaFin – Information on household insurance
• Gesetze im Internet – BGB §§ 535–580a
• Justice Portal NRW – Information on local courts

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1. [1] BaFin – Hausratversicherung
2. [2] BGB (German Civil Code) §§ 535–580a
3. [3] Justice Portal NRW – Local Courts