Tenant Household Insurance for Students in Germany

As a tenant and student in Germany, you often face the question which household insurance is appropriate. A correct policy protects personal belongings in the apartment against theft, fire, water damage and vandalism. Especially for students who rarely own expensive collections, the right insurance scope and appropriate sum insured are important to avoid overpaying while being adequately covered in the event of a claim. In this article you will find a practical checklist, concrete tips for comparing tariffs, notes on combining with liability coverage and simple steps on how to document damages and assert claims. We also explain which receipts are useful and how to insure correctly during a move or short-term stays.

What does household insurance cover?

Household insurance covers your belongings in the apartment against common risks. Standard benefits include protection against fire, water damage from pipes, burglary and vandalism after a break-in. It is important to adjust the sum insured to the actual value of the inventory and to check exclusions in the contract terms.

• Check the sum insured (amount): choose the right sum, do not underestimate
• Check perils: fire, water damage (water), theft
• Set a deductible (deduct): lower premium in exchange for an excess
• Document inventory: photos, invoices, serial numbers (evidence)
• Report claims: observe deadlines (deadline) and document in writing
• Check and combine liability coverage: determine if private liability is needed

How should students choose the right policy?

Compare tariffs and pay attention to terms like "replacement value" and exclusions. For short-term housing, monthly terms or flexible cancellation conditions can be important. Tenancy-related questions about landlord and tenant obligations are regulated by the German Civil Code (BGB) and the relevant sections on tenancy should be considered in case of disputes^[1].

In disputes, the local court (Amtsgericht) usually decides; for higher instances, the regional court (Landgericht) and the Federal Court of Justice (Bundesgerichtshof) are competent^[2]. For terminations or formal letters you can find templates by the Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection for guidance^[3].

Report a claim and submit documents

If a damage occurs, report it to the insurer immediately and document everything: photos, list of damaged items, purchase receipts, witnesses. Note date and time as well as a brief description of the incident. Good documentation facilitates settlement.

FAQ

Do students really need household insurance?

Yes, it protects movable property and can prevent financial burdens after theft or water damage.

Does household insurance cover damage in shared flats?

Often yes, if the policy is adjusted accordingly and co-insured persons or separate agreements exist.

How long do I have to report a claim?

Report claims as soon as possible; many insurers require immediate notification and adherence to internal deadlines.

How-To

1. Record and prove inventory (evidence): collect photos and invoices
2. Determine sum insured (amount): calculate a realistic value
3. Compare tariffs and submit application (form): compare offers in writing
4. Report claim and meet deadlines (deadline): submit notification to insurer

Help and Support

• BGB: German Civil Code
• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJV)
• Justice portal: information about courts

1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) - gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Local court (Amtsgericht) - justiz.de
3. [3] Termination letter templates - BMJV