Protect Renters from Natural Damage in Germany

As a renter in Germany, natural damages such as floods, storms or mold can quickly lead to high costs and disputes with the landlord. This guide explains in plain language which insurances (liability, household contents) cover damage, how to document damages and which forms and deadlines to observe. You will learn when the landlord's building insurance is responsible, when you can assert your own claims and how the local court (Amtsgericht) is involved in rental disputes. Practical examples show how fast claims handling works and which legal steps are possible in case of delays. The aim is to strengthen renters' rights in Germany and provide clear action steps for emergencies.

What are natural damages?

Natural damages result from events such as flooding, heavy rain, storms or landslides. For renters this means: water in living areas, damaged furniture or restricted usability of the flat. Whether costs are covered depends on insurance status and cause.

Which insurances help?

Household contents insurance replaces movable items; private liability insurance can cover liability for damages caused to third parties. The landlord's building insurance covers damage to the building, not the contents. Check your policies and report damage without delay.

• Notify your insurer in writing (notice).
• Document damages: take photos, videos and create an inventory list (evidence).
• Inform the landlord in writing and request access for inspection (contact).
• Collect quotes and invoices and keep them safe (payment).

How to settle damages quickly?

1. Document the damage immediately and secure timestamps (evidence).
2. Report the damage to your insurer and note the claim number (notice).
3. Inform the landlord and coordinate repair approvals (contact).
4. Review invoices, document payments and keep receipts (payment).

Legal steps and deadlines

If claims handling stalls, renters can consider legal steps. Key legal bases are the German Civil Code (BGB) ^[1] and the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) ^[2]. Rental disputes are usually heard first at the local court (Amtsgericht) ^[3]; higher instance rulings come from the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) ^[4]. For formal letters and claim forms you can find templates at the federal ministry or judicial authorities, for example termination templates or complaint forms ^[5]. Pay attention to insurers' deadlines: many policies require prompt notification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who pays for damaged household contents?

The renter's household contents insurance usually covers damaged furnishings; the landlord's building insurance covers the building itself.

Do I have to leave the flat immediately?

Only if there is significant danger; otherwise document the damage, inform landlord and insurer, and agree on temporary solutions.

How quickly must I report damage?

Report damage to insurer and landlord without delay; many policies expect reporting within a few days.

How-To

1. Take photos and videos of the damage and secure date information (evidence).
2. Send a damage report to your household insurer and request confirmation of receipt (notice).
3. Inform the landlord and coordinate repair appointments (contact).
4. Obtain quotes, collect invoices and present them to the insurer (payment).
5. If necessary: file a claim at the local court using the court claim form (court).

Key Takeaways

• Documentation is the most important step after a damage event.
• Report damage to both insurer and landlord at the same time.
• Use official forms and the local courts when necessary.

Help and Support / Resources

• BGB at gesetze-im-internet.de
• ZPO at gesetze-im-internet.de
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH)

1. [1] BGB §§535–580a, gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] ZPO, gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Local courts and jurisdiction, justiz.de
4. [4] Federal Court of Justice (BGH), bundesgerichtshof.de
5. [5] Sample forms and guidance, bmjv.de