External Insurance for Tenants & WGs in Germany

WG members often must decide whether external insurance makes sense. This guide explains which insurances tenants in Germany need, what WG residents should watch for with liability and household policies, and how to fairly manage shared risks. I explain typical coverage questions, exclusions and the differences between individual and group policies. I also show which deadlines apply for damage reports, which official forms are relevant and which courts handle rental disputes. I also describe how to secure receipts, document internal WG agreements in writing and which sample forms for termination or damage reporting are helpful.

What is external insurance?

External insurance refers to additional policies beyond standard household insurance that can cover bicycle theft outside the home, travel, or shared liability risks in a WG. Whether external insurance is worthwhile depends on possessions, lifestyle and whether roommates have joint or individual policies. Check policy terms for exclusions, sum limits and who is covered.

What tenants and WGs should watch for

• Report damages immediately within 14 days to the insurer and document time and circumstances.
• Clarify cost sharing among roommates and who covers rent or the deductible.
• Secure evidence such as photos, invoices and witness names to preserve proof.
• Set entry and access rights in writing so privacy and responsibilities are clear.
• Clear agreements on repair and maintenance duties help avoid disputes over causes of damage.

Forms, laws and deadlines

Important legal foundations for tenants are in the German Civil Code (BGB)^[1], e.g. on landlord and tenant duties. Procedural rules for court cases are in the Civil Procedure Code (ZPO)^[2]. For rental disputes, the local court (Amtsgericht) is usually competent; precedents are published by the Federal Court of Justice.^[3]

Important forms and templates:

• Termination letter (template from the Federal Ministry of Justice) – use this template when a roommate moves out and you need to adjust the lease; state date, recipient and reason clearly and send by registered mail.
• Damage report to the insurer – attach invoices, photos and witness statements; request a confirmation of receipt.

Practical steps for WG members

Negotiate in writing at the start: who pays which policy, how damages are shared, and who reports to insurer or landlord. Keep a shared folder (digital or physical) for receipts and appoint a contact person for insurance matters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is liable for damage to communal property?

Liability depends on who caused the damage and WG agreements; absent agreements, individual roommates may be liable for negligent acts.

Does household insurance cover items outside the apartment?

That depends on the policy; many household insurances have limits for theft outside the home; external insurance may fill gaps.

Can the landlord require a specific insurance?

Landlords cannot generally require private external insurance, but in special cases they may request proof of liability; check lease clauses.

How-To

1. Document the damage immediately with date, time and photos.
2. Contact the insurer and inform all affected roommates.
3. Submit invoices and the completed damage form and request an acknowledgment of receipt.
4. In case of dispute: seek advice and consider filing a claim at the competent local court.

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] German Civil Code (BGB)
• [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH)
• [2] Federal Ministry of Justice (forms and guidance)

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1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB)
2. [2] Civil Procedure Code (ZPO)
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH)